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

Taco 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?

Taco is generally healthier

Taco comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (8g vs 6.5g), more fiber (2g vs 1.5g), less sugar (1g vs 3.2g), less sodium (304mg vs 350mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

131 kcal

More Protein

Taco

8g

More Fiber

Taco

2g

Less Sugar

Taco

1g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Taco
155
Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
131
Proteinper 100g
Taco
8g
Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
6.5g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Taco
13g
Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
17g
Fatper 100g
Taco
8g
Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
3.8g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientTacoSpaghetti with Meat SauceDifference
Calories155kcal131kcal+24.0kcal
Protein8g6.5g+1.5g
Carbohydrates13g17g-4.0g
Fat8g3.8g+4.2g
Fiber2g1.5g+0.5g
Sugar1g3.2g-2.2g
Sodium304mg350mg-46.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Taco

Per 100g:155 calories
Per cup (150g):233 calories
Per serving (85g):132 calories

Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

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

Diet Compatibility

Taco

No specific diet tags

Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

No specific diet tags

When to Choose Taco

  • Higher in protein (8g vs 6.5g)
  • More fiber (2g vs 1.5g)
  • Lower in carbs (13g vs 17g)
  • Less sugar (1g vs 3.2g)
  • Lower sodium (304mg vs 350mg)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Taco nutrition →

When to Choose Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

  • Lower in calories (131 vs 155)

Common Uses

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

Taco vs Spaghetti with Meat Sauce: Nutritional Analysis

Taco is more calorie-dense at 155 calories per 100g compared to 131 for Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, a difference of 24 calories. On the protein front, Taco delivers more with 8g 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 Taco and Spaghetti with Meat Sauce tell different nutritional stories. Taco provides 13g of carbohydrates, 8g of fat, and 2g of fiber per 100g, while Spaghetti with Meat Sauce contains 17g carbs, 3.8g fat, and 1.5g fiber. The higher fiber content in Taco supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Taco contains 1g 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: Taco provides more protein (8g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Taco offers more fiber (2g/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, Taco or Spaghetti with Meat Sauce?

Taco has more calories with 155 kcal per 100g, compared to Spaghetti with Meat Sauce with 131 kcal. That's a difference of 24 calories per 100g serving.

Is Taco healthier than Spaghetti with Meat Sauce?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Taco is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Taco has 155 calories, 8g protein, and 2g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

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

Taco has more protein with 8g per 100g, compared to Spaghetti with Meat Sauce with 6.5g. Taco provides 1.5g more protein per 100g serving.

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

For weight loss, Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is the better choice with only 131 calories per 100g compared to 155 calories in Taco. Taco also offers 2g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Taco or Spaghetti with Meat Sauce have fewer carbs?

Taco has fewer carbs with 13g per 100g, compared to Spaghetti with Meat Sauce with 17g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Taco 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.