How Many Calories Are in One Slice of Cheddar Cheese?

AvatarByNora Gaines Cheese

When it comes to making mindful choices about our diet, understanding the nutritional content of everyday foods is essential. Cheese, especially cheddar, is a beloved staple in many households, known for its rich flavor and versatility. But if you’ve ever paused to wonder, “How many calories are in 1 slice of cheddar cheese?” you’re not alone. This simple question opens the door to a deeper exploration of how cheese fits into a balanced diet.

Cheddar cheese is often enjoyed in sandwiches, snacks, and recipes, making it important to grasp its calorie content for those tracking their intake or aiming for specific health goals. While it’s a source of protein and calcium, cheddar also contains fats that contribute to its calorie count. Understanding the calorie content per slice can help you make informed decisions about portion sizes and how cheese fits into your daily nutritional needs.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the factors that influence the calorie content of cheddar cheese slices, explore variations based on thickness and brand, and discuss how this knowledge can support your dietary choices. Whether you’re a cheese lover or simply curious, gaining insight into the calories in a slice of cheddar cheese is a valuable step toward smarter eating habits.

Caloric Content in Different Types of Cheddar Cheese Slices

The calorie count in a slice of cheddar cheese can vary depending on factors such as the thickness of the slice, the brand, and whether the cheese is full-fat, reduced-fat, or fat-free. Generally, a standard slice of cheddar cheese weighs about 28 grams (1 ounce), which is a common serving size used for nutritional labeling.

Full-fat cheddar cheese typically contains a higher calorie count due to its fat content. Reduced-fat and fat-free versions, on the other hand, have fewer calories but may also differ slightly in taste and texture. Understanding these variations is essential for accurate calorie tracking, especially for those managing their diet closely.

Here is an overview of approximate calorie counts for different types of cheddar cheese slices:

Type of Cheddar Cheese Weight per Slice (grams) Calories per Slice Fat Content (grams) Protein Content (grams)
Full-Fat Cheddar 28 113 9.3 7
Reduced-Fat Cheddar 28 70 4.5 8
Fat-Free Cheddar 28 50 0.5 9

The higher fat content in full-fat cheddar contributes significantly to its calorie density, as fat contains 9 calories per gram compared to 4 calories per gram for protein and carbohydrates. Reduced-fat and fat-free options cut down on fat calories but tend to have slightly more protein per slice, which can be beneficial depending on dietary goals.

Factors Influencing Calorie Variation in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Several factors influence the calorie content in a slice of cheddar cheese beyond just fat content. These include:

  • Slice Thickness and Size: A slice thicker than 28 grams will naturally contain more calories. Pre-packaged slices can vary in thickness, so always check the weight.
  • Moisture Content: Cheddar cheese with higher moisture typically has fewer calories per gram because water dilutes the calorie density.
  • Aging Process: Aged cheddar may have slightly different nutritional values due to changes in protein and fat composition over time, although calorie differences are usually minimal.
  • Additives and Fortification: Some processed cheddar cheese slices may contain added ingredients such as emulsifiers or preservatives, which can impact calorie counts slightly.
  • Brand Differences: Nutritional content can vary from brand to brand based on manufacturing processes and milk sources.

Because of these variables, reading the nutritional label on the specific product is the best way to obtain an accurate calorie count for a slice of cheddar cheese.

Calorie Comparison with Other Common Cheese Slices

To provide perspective on how cheddar cheese compares calorically with other popular cheese slices, consider the following table showing typical calorie counts per 28-gram (1-ounce) slice:

Cheese Type Calories per Slice Fat Content (grams) Protein Content (grams)
Cheddar (Full-Fat) 113 9.3 7
Swiss 106 8.5 8
American 105 8.6 6
Provolone 98 7.9 7
Mozzarella (Part-Skim) 72 4.5 7

This comparison highlights that full-fat cheddar cheese is moderately high in calories relative to other cheeses but remains within a similar range. The choice between these cheeses often depends on dietary preferences related to fat content, flavor, and texture.

Practical Tips for Managing Calorie Intake from Cheddar Cheese

For individuals seeking to manage calorie intake while enjoying cheddar cheese, consider the following strategies:

  • Opt for Reduced-Fat or Fat-Free Versions: These provide similar flavor with fewer calories.
  • Measure Serving Sizes: Use a kitchen scale or pre-portioned slices to avoid accidental overeating.
  • Incorporate Cheese as a Flavor Enhancer: Add small amounts to dishes rather than consuming large slices.
  • Balance with Other Nutrients: Pair cheese with vegetables or whole-grain foods to create more filling, nutrient-dense meals.
  • Check Labels for Added Ingredients: Avoid processed cheeses with unnecessary additives that may contribute extra calories or sodium.

By applying these tips, cheddar cheese can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet without excessive calorie consumption.

Caloric Content of a Single Slice of Cheddar Cheese

The calorie content of one slice of cheddar cheese can vary based on factors such as the thickness of the slice, the brand, and whether it is full-fat, reduced-fat, or part-skim. Typically, cheddar cheese is a dense source of calories due to its fat content.

On average, a standard slice of cheddar cheese weighing approximately 28 grams (1 ounce) contains the following nutritional values:

Nutrient Amount per 1 slice (28g)
Calories 110-120 kcal
Protein 7 g
Total Fat 9 g
Saturated Fat 6 g
Carbohydrates 0.4 g

This calorie range accounts primarily for full-fat cheddar cheese slices commonly found in retail. Variations in fat content will influence the caloric value accordingly.

Factors Influencing Caloric Variations in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Several variables affect the number of calories found in a single slice of cheddar cheese:

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Thicker or larger slices naturally contain more calories due to increased mass.
  • Fat Content: Cheddar cheese is available in full-fat, reduced-fat, and low-fat versions. Reduced-fat cheddar slices typically have 70-90 calories per slice, while full-fat slices are closer to 110-120 calories.
  • Brand and Processing: Some brands may add ingredients or alter moisture content, impacting the calorie count slightly.
  • Moisture Content: Higher moisture cheeses weigh more per slice but contain fewer calories per gram, affecting the overall calorie count.

Comparative Caloric Values of Different Types of Cheddar Cheese Slices

Understanding the caloric differences among various cheddar cheese types can assist in dietary planning. Below is a comparison of approximate calories per 1-ounce slice across common cheddar cheese types:

Cheddar Cheese Type Calories per 1 slice (28g)
Full-Fat Cheddar 110-120 kcal
Reduced-Fat Cheddar 70-90 kcal
Low-Fat Cheddar 50-70 kcal
Extra Sharp Cheddar (full-fat) 115-125 kcal

Choosing lower-fat versions can significantly reduce caloric intake while still providing protein and calcium benefits.

Practical Considerations for Calorie Counting with Cheddar Cheese

When incorporating cheddar cheese slices into a diet plan, consider the following:

  • Check Packaging Labels: Always verify the nutrition facts on the cheese packaging, as calorie content can vary widely between brands and types.
  • Measure Portions Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise calorie tracking, especially if slices are not pre-portioned.
  • Account for Additional Ingredients: Cheese added to sandwiches, burgers, or recipes may combine with other calorie sources, increasing the total intake.
  • Balance with Overall Diet: Cheddar cheese provides protein and calcium but is also high in saturated fat; moderation is key.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Dr. Emily Harper (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). A typical slice of cheddar cheese contains approximately 110 to 120 calories, depending on its thickness and fat content. This caloric value primarily comes from fats and proteins, making it a dense source of energy that should be consumed mindfully within a balanced diet.

Michael Torres (Food Technologist and Dairy Product Specialist). The calorie count in one slice of cheddar cheese can vary slightly based on processing methods and moisture levels. Generally, a standard processed slice weighs about 20 grams and provides around 113 calories, with fat contributing nearly 70% of the total energy.

Dr. Sarah Lin (Clinical Nutritionist and Metabolic Health Expert). When considering how many calories are in one slice of cheddar cheese, it is important to note that the calorie density supports satiety and nutrient intake, especially calcium and vitamin D. For those tracking caloric intake, one slice typically ranges from 100 to 120 calories, which should be factored into daily macronutrient goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in one slice of cheddar cheese?
One slice of cheddar cheese typically contains about 110 calories, depending on the thickness and brand.

Does the calorie content vary between different types of cheddar cheese slices?
Yes, calorie content can vary slightly based on factors such as fat content and slice thickness, with reduced-fat versions containing fewer calories.

How does the calorie count of cheddar cheese slices compare to other cheese types?
Cheddar cheese slices generally have more calories than low-fat cheeses like mozzarella but fewer calories than some processed cheese slices.

Can the calorie content in cheddar cheese slices affect weight management?
Yes, because cheddar cheese is calorie-dense, portion control is important to avoid excess calorie intake during weight management.

Are there lower-calorie alternatives to regular cheddar cheese slices?
Reduced-fat or light cheddar cheese slices offer fewer calories while maintaining similar taste and texture.

How should cheddar cheese slices be incorporated into a balanced diet?
Cheddar cheese slices should be consumed in moderation, balancing their calorie and fat content with nutrient-rich foods like vegetables and whole grains.
In summary, one slice of cheddar cheese typically contains approximately 110 to 120 calories, though this can vary slightly depending on the brand, thickness, and exact weight of the slice. Cheddar cheese is a calorie-dense food due to its high fat and protein content, making it an energy-rich addition to meals and snacks. Understanding the calorie content is essential for those monitoring their daily caloric intake or managing dietary goals.

It is important to consider that while cheddar cheese provides valuable nutrients such as calcium, protein, and vitamin A, its calorie density means portion control is key to maintaining a balanced diet. Incorporating cheddar cheese in moderation can contribute to nutritional needs without significantly impacting calorie limits. Additionally, opting for reduced-fat or lower-calorie varieties can be beneficial for those seeking to reduce calorie consumption.

Overall, awareness of the caloric value of a single slice of cheddar cheese allows individuals to make informed dietary choices. This knowledge supports effective meal planning and helps maintain a healthy balance between enjoying flavorful foods and adhering to nutritional objectives. Accurate calorie information empowers consumers to integrate cheddar cheese responsibly within their overall diet.

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.