How Many Calories Are There in a Slice of Cheddar Cheese?

AvatarByNora Gaines Cheese

When it comes to snacking or adding a flavorful touch to your meals, cheddar cheese is often a top choice. Its rich, creamy texture and sharp taste make it a beloved ingredient in countless dishes, from sandwiches and burgers to salads and casseroles. But beyond its delicious appeal, many people are curious about the nutritional impact of including cheddar cheese in their diet—especially when it comes to calories.

Understanding how many calories are in a slice of cheddar cheese can help you make more informed decisions about portion sizes and overall daily intake. Whether you’re tracking your macros, managing weight, or simply aiming for a balanced diet, knowing the calorie content is an essential piece of the puzzle. This knowledge allows you to enjoy your favorite cheese without compromising your health goals.

In this article, we’ll explore the calorie count of a typical slice of cheddar cheese and discuss factors that can influence its nutritional profile. By gaining insight into these details, you’ll be better equipped to savor cheddar cheese mindfully and incorporate it into your meals with confidence.

Caloric Content of Different Cheddar Cheese Serving Sizes

The caloric content of cheddar cheese varies depending on the serving size and the specific type of cheddar. Generally, a standard slice of cheddar cheese weighs around 28 grams (1 ounce), but this can differ based on how thickly the cheese is sliced or the brand’s specifications. Understanding the calories in various serving sizes can help with accurate dietary tracking.

A typical slice of cheddar cheese contains approximately 110 to 120 calories. This estimate accounts for the natural fat content, protein, and other macronutrients inherent in cheese. The calorie count may slightly fluctuate depending on whether the cheese is full-fat, reduced-fat, or part-skim.

Below is a detailed table showing the calories for common cheddar cheese serving sizes:

Serving Size Weight (grams) Calories Fat (grams) Protein (grams)
Thin Slice 15 g 60 5 4
Standard Slice 28 g (1 oz) 113 9 7
Thick Slice 40 g 160 13 10
Grated (1/4 cup) 28 g 113 9 7

Factors Influencing Caloric Variation in Cheddar Cheese

Several factors contribute to the variation in calories found in a slice of cheddar cheese:

  • Fat Content: The primary contributor to calories in cheddar cheese is fat. Full-fat cheddar typically contains around 9 grams of fat per ounce, which accounts for most of the calories. Reduced-fat or low-fat versions will have fewer calories but may differ in taste and texture.
  • Moisture Level: Cheddar cheese comes in varieties such as mild, sharp, and extra sharp, which differ in aging time and moisture content. Aged cheddar tends to have lower moisture and higher fat concentration, slightly increasing caloric density.
  • Additives and Processing: Some commercially available cheddar slices include preservatives, added salt, or emulsifiers, which might marginally alter caloric value.
  • Serving Thickness: As noted, the thickness of the slice directly impacts calorie count. Thicker slices will contain more cheese weight and thus more calories.

Understanding these factors can help in making informed choices, especially for those monitoring caloric intake or following specific dietary guidelines.

Nutritional Breakdown Beyond Calories

Cheddar cheese is not just a source of calories; it also provides essential nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet. Here are key nutritional components typically found in a 28-gram slice of cheddar cheese:

  • Protein: Approximately 7 grams, which supports muscle maintenance and repair.
  • Calcium: Around 200 milligrams, vital for bone health.
  • Vitamin A: Important for vision and immune function.
  • Sodium: Usually about 180 to 200 milligrams, which should be monitored in low-sodium diets.
  • Saturated Fat: Roughly 6 grams per slice, which should be consumed in moderation.

These nutrients make cheddar cheese a nutrient-dense food, but its high fat and sodium content necessitate mindful consumption in certain dietary plans.

Practical Tips for Managing Caloric Intake with Cheddar Cheese

When incorporating cheddar cheese into your diet, consider the following tips to manage calorie intake effectively:

  • Use thinner slices or measure cheese by weight to ensure portion control.
  • Opt for reduced-fat or part-skim cheddar varieties if lowering fat intake is a priority.
  • Balance cheese consumption with other nutrient-dense, low-calorie foods such as vegetables.
  • Incorporate cheddar cheese as a flavor enhancer rather than a primary calorie source.
  • Be mindful of added cheese in prepared foods (e.g., sandwiches, casseroles) to avoid unintentional calorie overload.

By applying these strategies, individuals can enjoy cheddar cheese while maintaining their nutritional goals.

Caloric Content of a Typical Slice of Cheddar Cheese

The calorie count in a slice of cheddar cheese can vary depending on the thickness, size, and brand of the cheese slice. However, it is possible to provide general estimates based on standard serving sizes.

Typically, a slice of cheddar cheese weighs between 20 to 28 grams (approximately 0.7 to 1 ounce). The calories in cheddar cheese primarily come from fat and protein content, with minimal carbohydrates.

Cheddar Cheese Slice Weight Average Calories Fat Content (grams) Protein Content (grams)
20 grams (approx. 0.7 oz) 80 kcal 7 g 5 g
28 grams (1 oz) 113 kcal 9 g 7 g

These values represent average nutritional content for standard full-fat cheddar cheese. Variations in fat content, such as reduced-fat or low-fat cheddar, will alter calorie values accordingly.

Factors Influencing Calorie Variation in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Several factors contribute to the differences in calorie counts for cheddar cheese slices:

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Thicker slices contain more cheese and thus more calories. Portion control is essential to manage calorie intake.
  • Fat Content: Full-fat cheddar typically contains about 33-35% fat by weight, whereas reduced-fat varieties may contain 20-25% fat, lowering calories.
  • Processing and Added Ingredients: Processed cheese slices may include additional ingredients like emulsifiers, which can slightly affect calorie density.
  • Moisture Content: Higher moisture cheeses tend to have fewer calories per gram because of the water weight diluting the fat and protein concentration.

For accurate calorie tracking, always check the nutrition label on the specific cheese product you are consuming.

Calorie Comparison Between Cheddar Cheese and Other Cheese Types

Calorie content varies among different cheese types due to differences in fat content and moisture levels. The following table compares calories in a 1-ounce (28 grams) slice of several popular cheeses:

Cheese Type Calories (per 28g slice) Fat Content (grams) Protein Content (grams)
Cheddar (Full-fat) 113 kcal 9 g 7 g
Mozzarella (Part-skim) 85 kcal 6 g 7 g
Swiss 106 kcal 8 g 8 g
Parmesan 122 kcal 8 g 11 g
American (Processed) 105 kcal 8 g 5 g

This comparison highlights that cheddar cheese falls within a moderate range of calories relative to other common cheeses. The protein content also contributes significantly to its nutritional value.

Practical Considerations for Including Cheddar Cheese in a Calorie-Controlled Diet

When incorporating cheddar cheese slices into a calorie-conscious diet, consider the following expert recommendations:

  • Portion Control: Use pre-sliced cheese or weigh slices to maintain consistent calorie intake.
  • Choose Reduced-Fat Options: Reduced-fat cheddar can lower calorie and fat intake while still providing protein and flavor.
  • Balance with Other Nutrients: Pair cheese with fiber-rich foods such as vegetables or whole-grain bread to improve satiety and nutritional balance.
  • Mind Added Ingredients: Avoid processed cheese products with added sugars or fillers that may increase calorie content unnecessarily.
  • Use Cheese as a Flavor Enhancer: A small amount of cheddar cheese can add flavor without significantly increasing total calories.

By understanding the calorie content and nutritional profile of cheddar cheese slices, consumers can make informed choices aligned with their dietary goals.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Dr. Emily Hartman (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). A standard slice of cheddar cheese typically contains around 110 to 120 calories, depending on its thickness and brand. This caloric value primarily comes from the cheese’s fat and protein content, making it a dense source of energy that should be accounted for in balanced meal planning.

Michael Chen (Food Technologist and Dairy Industry Consultant). The calorie count in a slice of cheddar cheese can vary slightly due to factors such as moisture content and aging process. Generally, a one-ounce slice averages about 113 calories, with variations arising from artisanal versus mass-produced cheeses. Understanding these nuances helps consumers make informed dietary choices.

Sarah Linton (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Expert). When considering how many calories are in a slice of cheddar cheese, it is important to recognize portion control. While cheddar is nutrient-rich, its calorie density means that even small portions contribute significantly to daily caloric intake, especially for individuals monitoring weight or cardiovascular health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in a standard slice of cheddar cheese?
A standard slice of cheddar cheese, weighing approximately 28 grams (1 ounce), contains about 110 to 120 calories.

Does the calorie content vary by cheddar cheese type?
Yes, calorie content can vary slightly depending on the fat content and aging process, with reduced-fat versions containing fewer calories than full-fat cheddar.

How do calories in cheddar cheese compare to other cheeses?
Cheddar cheese generally has a moderate calorie count compared to other cheeses, with some softer cheeses like mozzarella having fewer calories per slice.

Can the thickness of the slice affect the calorie count?
Absolutely; thicker slices contain more cheese and therefore more calories, while thinner slices have fewer calories proportionally.

Are calories in cheddar cheese primarily from fat or protein?
Most calories in cheddar cheese come from fat, which constitutes about 70-75% of its caloric content, with protein contributing the remainder.

How can I reduce calorie intake when consuming cheddar cheese?
Opting for reduced-fat or part-skim cheddar, controlling portion size, and pairing cheese with low-calorie foods can help manage calorie intake effectively.
In summary, a typical slice of cheddar cheese contains approximately 110 to 120 calories, though this can vary slightly depending on the thickness and brand. Cheddar cheese is a nutrient-dense food, providing not only calories but also essential nutrients such as protein, calcium, and fat. Understanding the calorie content is important for those monitoring their dietary intake, especially within calorie-controlled or weight management plans.

It is also important to consider portion size and the context in which cheddar cheese is consumed. While it offers valuable nutrients, its relatively high fat and calorie content mean it should be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Additionally, variations such as reduced-fat or low-calorie cheddar options can provide alternatives for individuals seeking to reduce caloric intake without sacrificing flavor.

Overall, being informed about the calorie content of a slice of cheddar cheese enables consumers to make better dietary choices. Incorporating cheddar cheese mindfully can enhance the nutritional quality and taste of meals while aligning with personal health goals. Accurate knowledge of its caloric value supports effective meal planning and nutritional balance.

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.