If you're counting calories, half a package (354 g) of Stuffed Shells Bolognese contains approximately 480 calories. This classic Italian dish is loved by many for its creamy cheese and rich tomato sauce. However, if you're looking to manage your weight or simply want to know more about the nutrition in your food, keep reading!

Beyond just the calories, it's important to take a closer look at the nutritional information for this dish. Half a package of Stuffed Shells Bolognese also contains 18 grams of fat, 58 grams of carbs, and 32 grams of protein. It's important to note that the serving size of 354g is quite large, and it's easy to overindulge without realizing how much you're consuming.

In this article, we'll dive deeper into the nutrition of Stuffed Shells Bolognese, explore some healthy side dishes that pair well with this classic Italian meal, and offer some alternatives and substitutions for those looking to enjoy a lighter version of the dish. Let's get started!

The number of calories in half a package of Stuffed Shells Bolognese

As mentioned earlier, half a package (354 g) of Stuffed Shells Bolognese contains approximately 480 calories. This serving size is quite large, however, and it's easy to consume more than half the package without realizing it. If you're trying to manage your weight or keep track of your caloric intake, it's important to be mindful of how much you're eating. Consider splitting the package with a friend, or saving some for leftovers to enjoy the next day.

How many servings does half package of Stuffed Shells Bolognese contain?

Half a package of Stuffed Shells Bolognese contains approximately 2-3 servings, depending on how hungry you are and how large you choose to make each serving. If you're feeding a family, you may want to consider cooking the full package and serving it with a healthy side salad or vegetable dish. Alternatively, you can save the other half of the package for future use.

What is the recommended serving size of Stuffed Shells Bolognese?

The recommended serving size for Stuffed Shells Bolognese is approximately 177g or 1/3 of a package. This serving size contains around 240 calories and is a more reasonable amount for those trying to keep track of their caloric intake. Consider portioning out your meal into appropriate serving sizes, or use a measuring cup to ensure you're consuming the recommended amount.

Is Stuffed Shells Bolognese a healthy meal option?

Stuffed Shells Bolognese can be a healthy meal option when consumed in moderation and paired with some nutritious sides. While the dish is high in calories, it also contains a good amount of protein and fiber. The cheese and tomato sauce can be high in fat, so it's important to be mindful of portion sizes. Try pairing your Stuffed Shells Bolognese with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or some steamed broccoli. This will help balance out the meal with some added nutrients and fiber.

Can you pair sides with Stuffed Shells Bolognese?

Absolutely! Stuffed Shells Bolognese can be paired with a variety of sides to make a well-rounded meal. Consider some roasted vegetables, a healthy salad, or some garlic bread to complete the meal. Steamed broccoli or asparagus can help balance out the rich flavors of the Stuffed Shells Bolognese, while a fresh Caesar salad can add some extra greens and protein.

What are the nutrition facts of Stuffed Shells Bolognese?

In addition to the calorie count mentioned earlier, half a package of Stuffed Shells Bolognese contains 18g of fat, 58g of carbohydrates, and 32g of protein. It's important to note that the exact nutrition facts may vary slightly depending on the brand and recipe of the Stuffed Shells Bolognese you're consuming.

Ingredients of Stuffed Shells Bolognese

The exact ingredients of Stuffed Shells Bolognese will vary depending on the recipe or brand you're consuming, but the classic ingredients typically include jumbo pasta shells, ground beef, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning. If you're looking to make this dish at home, there are many recipes available online that you can customize to your liking.

Process to cook Stuffed Shells Bolognese

To cook Stuffed Shells Bolognese, start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions and set aside. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and drain any excess fat. Add in the garlic and onions and cook until softened. Stir in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning, and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes. In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and some salt and pepper. Stuff each pasta shell with a tablespoon or so of the cheese mixture, and place the shells in a baking dish. Pour the sauce over the shells and top with additional cheese if desired. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Alternatives to Stuffed Shells Bolognese

If you're looking for a lighter version of Stuffed Shells Bolognese, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also use low-fat or fat-free cheese to cut down on the fat content. Alternatively, you can try making stuffed peppers or zucchini boats for a similar flavor profile with fewer calories and carbs.

Possible nutritional substitutions for Stuffed Shells Bolognese

If you're looking for some healthy substitutions for Stuffed Shells Bolognese, consider using spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles instead of pasta. You can also mix in some veggies like spinach or mushrooms to add some extra fiber and nutrients to the dish. Instead of ground beef, try using tofu, lentils, or chickpeas for a plant-based protein source. This can help cut down on the fat and calorie content of the dish, while still providing plenty of flavor and nutrition.