Homemade Spaghetti: How Many Calories?

If you’re a pasta lover, you may be wondering just how many calories are in a serving of homemade spaghetti. The answer depends on several factors, including the type of pasta used, the portion size, and the ingredients in the sauce. Let’s break it down.

First, let’s talk about the pasta itself. A 2-ounce serving of dry spaghetti (about 1 cup cooked) typically contains around 200 calories. This is the base calorie count for your homemade spaghetti dish.

Next, let’s consider the sauce. A homemade marinara sauce made from tomatoes, garlic, onions, herbs, and olive oil can be relatively low in calories. On the other hand, a cream-based alfredo sauce or a meat-based bolognese sauce can add more calories to your dish.

To calculate the total calorie count for your homemade spaghetti, you’ll need to consider the portion size of pasta and the calorie count of your chosen sauce. For example, a 1-cup serving of cooked spaghetti with a simple marinara sauce may contain around 300-400 calories. However, a serving of spaghetti with a rich, creamy sauce could have upwards of 500-600 calories.

If you’re looking to cut calories, you can try using whole wheat or vegetable-based pasta instead of traditional white pasta, and opting for a lighter sauce made with fresh tomatoes and minimal added fats.

Now that we’ve covered the calorie aspect of homemade spaghetti, let’s dive into a delicious and healthier marinara sauce recipe that you can make at home.

Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:
– 1 can (28 ounces) of whole peeled tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until the onion is translucent.

2. Pour the canned tomatoes into a bowl, and crush them with your hands to break them up into smaller pieces.

3. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil to the saucepan. Stir to combine.

4. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly.

5. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve the marinara sauce over your favorite pasta, and garnish with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

This homemade marinara sauce is packed with flavor and pairs perfectly with a serving of spaghetti. At around 50 calories per serving, it’s a healthier option compared to heavier cream-based sauces. Enjoy your homemade spaghetti with this delicious sauce, and savor the satisfaction of knowing exactly how many calories you’re consuming with each bite.