One cup of cooked pasta (about 140 g) provides roughly 220 calories and 8 g of protein, per USDA FoodData Central. The calories climb mostly from sauces and cheese. Pasta is a filling, moderate-calorie carb. Pair it with vegetables, lean protein, and a measured olive-oil or tomato sauce instead of cream-based ones. Measure dry (about 2 oz per serving) since cooked pasta expands a lot.

Key facts:

  • 1 cup cooked pasta: ~220 kcal
  • Sauce drives calories
  • Add veg + lean protein
  • Measure 2 oz dry