How much calories in 1 cup mashed potato?

The calorie count for 1 cup of mashed potatoes varies depending on the recipe and ingredients used. Here's a breakdown:

Basic Mashed Potatoes (1 cup):

* Without butter or milk: Around 150-160 calories

* With butter and milk: Around 200-250 calories

Factors Affecting Calorie Count:

* Type of potato: Russet potatoes have more starch and calories than Yukon Gold potatoes.

* Amount of butter and milk: Adding more butter and milk increases the calorie and fat content.

* Other ingredients: Adding cheese, sour cream, bacon, or other toppings significantly increases the calorie count.

For a more accurate calorie count, you can:

* Use a food tracking app: Many apps allow you to enter your recipe and calculate the nutrition information.

* Check the nutrition label: If you are using pre-made mashed potatoes, the label will provide the calorie information.

Tips for Lower-Calorie Mashed Potatoes:

* Use lower-fat milk or non-fat yogurt instead of butter.

* Add herbs and spices for flavor instead of butter.

* Use a potato masher instead of a food processor to retain some of the fiber.

* Pair mashed potatoes with lean protein and vegetables for a balanced meal.