How Many Calories Are in a Slice of Pepper Jack Cheese?

AvatarByNora Gaines Cheese

When it comes to adding a flavorful twist to your sandwiches, snacks, or recipes, pepper jack cheese slices often steal the spotlight. Known for their creamy texture combined with a spicy kick from jalapeños and other peppers, these cheese slices offer a delicious way to elevate everyday meals. But beyond taste, many people are curious about the nutritional impact of including pepper jack cheese in their diet—especially when it comes to calorie content.

Understanding the calorie count in a pepper jack cheese slice is essential for those who are mindful of their daily intake, whether for weight management, fitness goals, or overall health. Cheese, while rich in protein and calcium, can also be calorie-dense, and the addition of spices and flavorings might influence its nutritional profile. Exploring the calorie content helps individuals make informed choices about portion sizes and how to balance indulgence with nutrition.

In this article, we’ll delve into the calorie specifics of pepper jack cheese slices, comparing them to other popular cheese varieties and discussing how they fit into various dietary plans. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast or simply curious about the numbers behind this spicy favorite, gaining insight into its caloric makeup can enhance your eating experience and support your health goals.

Caloric Content of Pepper Jack Cheese Slices

Pepper Jack cheese slices typically contain a moderate amount of calories, which can vary slightly depending on the brand and thickness of the slice. On average, a single slice weighing approximately 21 grams (0.75 ounces) contains between 70 and 100 calories. This caloric value primarily comes from fats and proteins present in the cheese.

The composition of Pepper Jack cheese includes milk fat, which contributes significantly to the calorie count. Additionally, the spicy peppers infused in the cheese add negligible calories but enhance flavor without impacting the overall energy content.

Several factors influence the calorie content in Pepper Jack cheese slices:

  • Fat content: Higher fat varieties have increased calories.
  • Slice thickness: Thicker slices weigh more and contain more calories.
  • Brand formulation: Some brands may add additional ingredients affecting calorie density.

Nutritional Breakdown per Pepper Jack Cheese Slice

Understanding the macronutrient distribution of a Pepper Jack cheese slice helps in assessing its role in a balanced diet. Below is a typical nutritional profile for one standard slice (21 grams):

Nutrient Amount per Slice % Daily Value*
Calories 80 kcal 4%
Total Fat 7 g 11%
Saturated Fat 4.5 g 23%
Cholesterol 25 mg 8%
Sodium 180 mg 8%
Protein 5 g 10%
Carbohydrates 1 g 0%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Factors Affecting Caloric Variation in Pepper Jack Cheese Slices

While the average calorie count for a Pepper Jack slice hovers around 80 calories, several variables may cause variation:

  • Moisture content: Cheese with higher moisture tends to have fewer calories per gram due to water’s weight dilution effect.
  • Aging process: Longer-aged cheeses might have denser nutrient concentrations, increasing caloric density.
  • Added ingredients: Some processed Pepper Jack slices contain additives or fillers that can alter calorie levels.
  • Portion size differences: Homemade or deli slices may vary widely in weight compared to commercially pre-packaged slices.

Consumers aiming to monitor calorie intake should always check the nutrition label for precise information, especially if using cheese as a component of calorie-controlled meal planning.

Comparing Pepper Jack Cheese Calories to Other Cheese Varieties

To put the calorie content of Pepper Jack cheese into perspective, it is useful to compare it with other common cheese types. This comparison highlights how Pepper Jack fits within typical cheese caloric ranges:

Cheese Type Calories per 21g Slice Total Fat (g) Protein (g)
Pepper Jack 80 7 5
Cheddar 85 7.5 5
Swiss 75 6 5
Mozzarella (part-skim) 70 5 6
Provolone 85 7 6

Pepper Jack cheese offers a calorie profile similar to that of other semi-hard cheeses, making it a flavorful yet reasonably calorie-dense option for cheese lovers. Its unique spicy flavor does not significantly affect its caloric content compared to non-spicy varieties.

Incorporating Pepper Jack Cheese Slices into a Calorie-Conscious Diet

When including Pepper Jack cheese slices in meals, consider the following tips to maintain calorie awareness:

  • Use slices as flavor enhancers rather than the main component, limiting portion size.
  • Pair with nutrient-dense, low-calorie foods such as vegetables or whole grain breads.
  • Opt for reduced-fat Pepper Jack varieties if available to lower calorie and saturated fat intake.
  • Monitor overall fat and sodium intake, as Pepper Jack can be high in both.
  • Use a kitchen scale or reference packaging to accurately measure slice weight and calories.

By balancing portion sizes and complementary foods, Pepper Jack cheese slices can be enjoyed without significantly impacting daily caloric goals.

Caloric Content of a Typical Pepper Jack Cheese Slice

Pepper Jack cheese, known for its creamy texture and spicy flavor profile, is a popular choice in sandwiches and snacks. Understanding its caloric content is essential for managing dietary intake, especially for those monitoring calories for weight management or nutritional balance.

The calories in a Pepper Jack cheese slice can vary depending on the brand, thickness, and specific ingredients used. However, a standard slice of Pepper Jack cheese, typically weighing about 21 to 28 grams (0.75 to 1 ounce), contains the following approximate nutritional values:

Nutrient Amount per Slice (approx.)
Calories 80 – 110 kcal
Total Fat 7 – 9 grams
Saturated Fat 4 – 6 grams
Protein 5 – 7 grams
Carbohydrates 0 – 1 gram
Sodium 150 – 200 mg

These values highlight that Pepper Jack cheese slices are calorie-dense primarily due to their fat content, particularly saturated fats. The protein content is moderate, making it a good source of dairy protein, while carbohydrates are minimal.

Factors Influencing Calorie Variation in Pepper Jack Cheese Slices

Several variables affect the calorie count in Pepper Jack cheese slices:

  • Slice Thickness: Thicker slices weigh more and therefore contain more calories. Commercially sliced cheese varies from thin deli slices to thicker cut varieties.
  • Brand Formulation: Different manufacturers may alter fat content, moisture levels, and additives, influencing total calories.
  • Fat Content: Reduced-fat or low-fat Pepper Jack cheeses typically have fewer calories but may alter texture and flavor.
  • Added Ingredients: Some Pepper Jack cheeses may contain additional spices or flavorings that marginally affect caloric values.

Calorie Comparison with Other Cheese Varieties

To contextualize Pepper Jack cheese’s calorie content, comparing it with other common cheese types is useful:

Cheese Type Calories per Slice (approx. 21-28g) Typical Fat Content
Pepper Jack 80 – 110 kcal 7 – 9 grams
Cheddar 110 – 120 kcal 9 – 10 grams
Swiss 90 – 110 kcal 7 – 9 grams
Provolone 90 – 100 kcal 7 – 8 grams
American (Processed) 60 – 70 kcal 4 – 5 grams

Pepper Jack cheese generally falls in the mid-range for calories among popular cheese varieties. It provides a balance between flavor intensity and energy content, making it suitable for those who desire a flavorful cheese without the highest calorie load.

Incorporating Pepper Jack Cheese Slices into a Balanced Diet

When integrating Pepper Jack cheese slices into meal plans, consider the following nutritional strategies:

  • Portion Control: Limit consumption to one slice (approximately 80-110 calories) to maintain calorie goals.
  • Complement with Low-Calorie Foods: Pair cheese with vegetables or whole-grain bread to enhance satiety and nutritional density.
  • Monitor Saturated Fat Intake: Due to relatively high saturated fat content, balance cheese intake with other sources of unsaturated fats.
  • Consider Reduced-Fat Options: If calorie reduction is a priority, opt for reduced-fat Pepper Jack cheese variants.

Practical Tips for Reading Nutrition Labels on Pepper Jack Cheese

Because calorie content can vary widely between brands and product types, carefully reading nutrition labels is crucial:

  • Check Serving Size: Ensure the serving size matches your intended portion to accurately gauge calories.
  • Review Fat and Sodium Levels: High sodium and saturated fat content may influence health decisions beyond calorie counting.
  • Look for Added Ingredients: Some slices contain preservatives or flavor enhancers that may affect nutritional quality.
  • Compare Products: Use labels to select products that fit your dietary needs and preferences.

    • Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Pepper Jack Cheese Slices

    Dr. Emily Carter (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). Pepper Jack cheese slices typically contain around 70 to 100 calories per slice, depending on thickness and brand. This caloric range makes it a moderately energy-dense option, so portion control is essential for those monitoring their daily intake.

    Mark Jensen (Food Technologist and Dairy Product Specialist). The calorie count in a Pepper Jack cheese slice largely stems from its fat content, which usually ranges between 6 to 8 grams per serving. Variations in processing and moisture levels can slightly alter the calorie values, but most commercially available slices fall within a consistent range.

    Sarah Nguyen (Clinical Nutritionist and Cheese Connoisseur). When considering Pepper Jack cheese slices in a balanced diet, it is important to recognize that while they provide a good source of protein and calcium, their calorie density requires mindful consumption, especially for individuals aiming to reduce overall caloric intake.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    How many calories are in a typical slice of Pepper Jack cheese?
    A standard slice of Pepper Jack cheese, approximately 28 grams, contains about 100 to 110 calories.

    Do calories vary between different brands of Pepper Jack cheese slices?
    Yes, calorie content can vary slightly depending on the brand and thickness of the slice, but most fall within the 100 to 120 calorie range.

    What macronutrients contribute to the calorie content in Pepper Jack cheese?
    Calories in Pepper Jack cheese primarily come from fats and proteins, with fats contributing the majority of the caloric value.

    Is Pepper Jack cheese high in calories compared to other cheeses?
    Pepper Jack cheese has a moderate calorie content similar to other semi-hard cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby, making it neither particularly high nor low in calories.

    Can Pepper Jack cheese slices fit into a low-calorie diet?
    Yes, when consumed in moderation, Pepper Jack cheese slices can be included in a low-calorie diet due to their reasonable calorie count and nutrient density.

    Does the spicy flavor of Pepper Jack cheese affect its calorie content?
    No, the added peppers and spices in Pepper Jack cheese do not significantly impact the overall calorie content.
    In summary, a typical slice of Pepper Jack cheese contains approximately 70 to 100 calories, depending on the brand and thickness of the slice. This calorie range is comparable to other semi-soft cheeses, making Pepper Jack a flavorful yet moderately caloric option for those mindful of their dietary intake. The cheese’s calorie content primarily comes from its fat and protein composition, which contribute to its rich taste and creamy texture.

    It is important to consider portion size when incorporating Pepper Jack cheese into meals, as calories can accumulate quickly with multiple slices or additional cheese-based ingredients. Additionally, the cheese provides essential nutrients such as calcium and protein, which support bone health and muscle maintenance. However, due to its fat content, moderation is advised, especially for individuals managing calorie intake or saturated fat consumption.

    Overall, Pepper Jack cheese can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when consumed in appropriate portions. Understanding its calorie content helps consumers make informed dietary choices while appreciating the unique spicy flavor that distinguishes Pepper Jack from other cheeses. For precise nutritional information, checking the specific product label is recommended, as formulations may vary across manufacturers.

    Author Profile

    Nora Gaines
    Nora Gaines
    When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

    It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

    Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.