1 tray (340 g) Spaghetti with Meat Sauce contains 370 calories. Are you looking for a quick and easy meal option? Then spaghetti with meat sauce might be a good choice. Not only is it delicious, but it's also filling and a great source of protein. So, if you're in a hurry and don't have time to cook, this dish is perfect for you.

Besides its taste, spaghetti with meat sauce is also a good source of nutrients. Spaghetti is made from wheat and provides you with carbohydrates, which are essential to fuel your body. On the other hand, meat sauce is a good source of protein and healthy fats, which help keep you full for a longer time. Together, they make a balanced and satisfying meal.

In this article, we'll discuss everything you need to know about spaghetti with meat sauce, including how to make it, modify it according to your preferences, and pair it with side dishes to elevate its taste.

Calories Count

As mentioned earlier, 1 tray (340 g) spaghetti with meat sauce contains 370 calories. It's a moderate amount that can fit into most diet plans, but you should keep track of your portion size to avoid overeating. If you're counting calories, you can modify the recipe by using lean meat, reducing the amount of oil or butter, and adding more vegetables to increase the volume of the dish without adding too many calories.

Serving Size

One tray (340 g) of spaghetti with meat sauce is considered one serving. However, you can adjust the portion size according to your hunger and nutritional needs. If you want to reduce the calories, you can eat half of the tray and save the other half for later. Alternatively, you can pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetables to increase the volume of your meal without adding too many calories.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of spaghetti with meat sauce are spaghetti pasta, ground meat (beef or turkey), tomato sauce or paste, onion, garlic, and spices (such as basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes). You can modify the ingredients according to your preferences. For example, you can use whole grain pasta for more fiber, add more vegetables (such as bell pepper, zucchini, or mushrooms) for more nutrients and volume, or use a lower-sodium tomato sauce to reduce the sodium content. Here's a sample recipe for spaghetti with meat sauce:

Preparation

To make spaghetti with meat sauce, you need to cook the pasta first according to the package instructions. Meanwhile, you can prepare the meat sauce by browning the ground meat in a pan, adding onion and garlic, and then adding tomato sauce and spices. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens and the flavors meld. After the pasta is cooked, drain it, and then add it to the saucepan with the meat sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated with sauce. Serve hot and enjoy!

Possible Recipe Modifications

As mentioned earlier, you can modify the recipe according to your preferences and dietary restrictions. Here are some ideas:

• Use whole grain pasta instead of regular pasta for more fiber.
• Use lean ground meat (such as turkey or chicken) instead of beef.
• Add more vegetables (such as bell pepper, zucchini, or mushrooms) for more nutrients and volume.
• Use a lower-sodium tomato sauce to reduce the sodium content.
• Omit the cheese or use a low-fat version to reduce the fat content.

Health Benefits

Spaghetti with meat sauce can provide several health benefits, such as:

• Good source of carbohydrates for energy.
• Good source of protein for muscle and tissue repair and growth.
• Good source of healthy fats to keep you full and satisfied.
• Good source of vitamins and minerals (such as iron, folate, and zinc) from the meat sauce and vegetables.
• May help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of chronic diseases (such as heart disease and diabetes) due to the fiber content.

Side Dish Options

Spaghetti with meat sauce can be paired with many side dishes to increase the volume and nutrients of your meal. Here are some options:

• Side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and balsamic vinaigrette.
• Roasted vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, or carrots) with olive oil and spices.
• Garlic bread or homemade focaccia (use whole wheat flour for more fiber).
• Fruit salad with seasonal fruits.
• Minestrone soup or tomato soup (use low-sodium versions).

Storage Instructions

Spaghetti with meat sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or oven before serving. You can also freeze the leftovers for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Label it with the name of the dish and the date, and then place it in the freezer. To thaw, transfer the container to the fridge a day before serving, or reheat it in the microwave or oven from frozen.

Meal Planning Ideas

Spaghetti with meat sauce can be a great meal prep option for busy weekdays or lazy weekends. Here are some meal planning ideas:

• Cook a big batch of spaghetti with meat sauce on Sunday and portion it out in containers for the week. Pair it with different side dishes each day to keep it interesting.
• Make spaghetti with meat sauce once a week and freeze the leftovers for busy days. You can also swap the meat sauce with a vegetarian version for variety.
• Use spaghetti with meat sauce as a base for other meals, such as baked ziti or lasagna. You can also add more vegetables or beans to make it more filling and nutritious.

Customer Reviews

Here are some customer reviews of spaghetti with meat sauce:

• 'This dish is so simple, yet so satisfying. I love the combination of pasta and meat sauce, and I can't get enough of it.'
• 'This is one of my go-to weeknight meals when I don't have much time to cook. It's filling, delicious, and I can always modify it according to what I have in my fridge.'
• 'Spaghetti with meat sauce is a classic dish, and this recipe does not disappoint. It's a crowd-pleaser in my household.'