Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Lasagna vs Spaghetti with Meat Sauce: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is generally healthier

Spaghetti with Meat Sauce comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (131 vs 135), more fiber (1.5g vs 1g), less sodium (350mg vs 380mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

131 kcal

More Protein

Lasagna

8.2g

More Fiber

Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

1.5g

Less Sugar

Lasagna

3g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Lasagna
135
Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
131
Proteinper 100g
Lasagna
8.2g
Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
6.5g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Lasagna
13g
Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
17g
Fatper 100g
Lasagna
5.6g
Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
3.8g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientLasagnaSpaghetti with Meat SauceDifference
Calories135kcal131kcal+4.0kcal
Protein8.2g6.5g+1.7g
Carbohydrates13g17g-4.0g
Fat5.6g3.8g+1.8g
Fiber1g1.5g-0.5g
Sugar3g3.2g-0.2g
Sodium380mg350mg+30.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Lasagna

Per 100g:135 calories
Per cup (150g):203 calories
Per serving (85g):115 calories

Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

Per 100g:131 calories
Per cup (150g):197 calories
Per serving (85g):111 calories

Diet Compatibility

Lasagna

No specific diet tags

Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

No specific diet tags

When to Choose Lasagna

  • Higher in protein (8.2g vs 6.5g)
  • Lower in carbs (13g vs 17g)
  • Less sugar (3g vs 3.2g)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Lasagna nutrition →

When to Choose Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

  • Lower in calories (131 vs 135)
  • More fiber (1.5g vs 1g)
  • Lower sodium (350mg vs 380mg)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Spaghetti with Meat Sauce nutrition →

Lasagna vs Spaghetti with Meat Sauce: Nutritional Analysis

Lasagna is more calorie-dense at 135 calories per 100g compared to 131 for Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, a difference of 4 calories. On the protein front, Lasagna delivers more with 8.2g per 100g versus 6.5g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Lasagna and Spaghetti with Meat Sauce tell different nutritional stories. Lasagna provides 13g of carbohydrates, 5.6g of fat, and 1g of fiber per 100g, while Spaghetti with Meat Sauce contains 17g carbs, 3.8g fat, and 1.5g fiber. The higher fiber content in Spaghetti with Meat Sauce supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Lasagna contains 3g while Spaghetti with Meat Sauce has 3.2g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is the lower-calorie choice at 131 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Lasagna provides more protein (8.2g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Spaghetti with Meat Sauce offers more fiber (1.5g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Lasagna or Spaghetti with Meat Sauce?

Lasagna has more calories with 135 kcal per 100g, compared to Spaghetti with Meat Sauce with 131 kcal. That's a difference of 4 calories per 100g serving.

Is Lasagna healthier than Spaghetti with Meat Sauce?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Spaghetti with Meat Sauce has 131 calories, 6.5g protein, and 1.5g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Lasagna and Spaghetti with Meat Sauce?

Lasagna has more protein with 8.2g per 100g, compared to Spaghetti with Meat Sauce with 6.5g. Lasagna provides 1.7g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Lasagna or Spaghetti with Meat Sauce?

For weight loss, Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is the better choice with only 131 calories per 100g compared to 135 calories in Lasagna. Spaghetti with Meat Sauce also offers 1.5g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Lasagna or Spaghetti with Meat Sauce have fewer carbs?

Lasagna has fewer carbs with 13g per 100g, compared to Spaghetti with Meat Sauce with 17g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Lasagna is the better option with 4.0g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.