How Many Calories Are in Provolone Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Nutrition & Health

When it comes to enjoying rich, flavorful cheeses, provolone stands out as a popular choice for many food lovers. Whether melted on a sandwich, sliced for a charcuterie board, or added to a hearty pasta dish, provolone brings a distinctive taste that enhances any meal. But for those mindful of their dietary intake, a common question arises: how many calories are in provolone cheese?

Understanding the calorie content of provolone is essential for anyone tracking their nutrition, managing weight, or simply aiming to make informed food choices. Cheese, while delicious, can vary widely in calories depending on type, serving size, and preparation. Provolone, with its smooth texture and slightly tangy flavor, fits into this spectrum uniquely, offering both indulgence and nourishment.

In the following sections, we will explore the calorie profile of provolone cheese, shedding light on what contributes to its energy value and how it compares to other cheeses. This insight will help you enjoy provolone with confidence, balancing taste and health in your daily diet.

Caloric Content and Nutritional Breakdown of Provolone Cheese

Provolone cheese is a semi-hard Italian cheese known for its mild to sharp flavor profile, which can vary depending on aging. Understanding the caloric content of provolone cheese requires looking at its macronutrient composition—primarily fats, proteins, and carbohydrates—which all contribute differently to the total calorie count.

The calorie content of provolone cheese is predominantly derived from fat and protein. Fat provides 9 calories per gram, while protein and carbohydrates each provide 4 calories per gram. Provolone typically contains very little carbohydrate, so its energy mainly comes from fats and proteins.

On average, a 1-ounce (28 grams) serving of provolone cheese contains approximately 100 calories. This serving size is typical for cheese portions in dietary guidelines and food labeling.

Nutrient Amount per 1 oz (28g) Serving Calories per Nutrient
Fat 7-8 grams 63-72 calories
Protein 7 grams 28 calories
Carbohydrates 0-1 gram 0-4 calories

The variation in fat content can slightly affect the total calories, but overall, provolone remains a calorie-dense food due to its high fat content. The protein content also contributes significantly to the calorie count, making it a good source of protein along with its energy contribution.

Factors Influencing Caloric Variation in Provolone Cheese

Several factors can influence the caloric content of provolone cheese, leading to slight differences between brands and types:

  • Aging Process: Longer-aged provolone tends to have a more concentrated flavor and sometimes a higher fat content due to moisture loss, which can increase calorie density per weight.
  • Milk Source: Provolone made from whole milk generally contains more fat and calories compared to those made from reduced-fat or part-skim milk.
  • Manufacturing Variations: Different producers may use varying amounts of salt, cultures, and enzymes, which can subtly affect nutrient composition.
  • Serving Size: Calorie counts will scale linearly with serving size; larger portions naturally have more calories.

Comparative Calorie Content of Provolone and Other Cheeses

To provide context, here is a comparison of the calorie content of provolone cheese relative to other popular cheeses per 1-ounce serving:

Cheese Calories per 1 oz (28g) Fat Content (grams) Protein Content (grams)
Provolone 100 7-8 7
Cheddar 115 9-10 7
Swiss 110 8-9 8
Mozzarella (part skim) 85 6 7
Parmesan 120 8-9 10

This comparison highlights that provolone is moderately high in calories, similar to other semi-hard cheeses, making it a significant energy source when incorporated into meals.

Incorporating Provolone Cheese into a Balanced Diet

Given its calorie density, provolone cheese should be consumed in moderation, especially for individuals monitoring calorie intake or managing weight. However, it also provides valuable nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12, which contribute positively to health.

Tips for including provolone cheese wisely:

  • Use thin slices or small cubes to add flavor without excessive calories.
  • Pair with fresh vegetables or whole-grain products to balance macronutrient intake.
  • Consider the overall meal composition to avoid excessive saturated fat and calorie consumption.
  • Opt for reduced-fat versions if available and preferred.

By understanding the caloric content and nutritional characteristics of provolone cheese, consumers can make informed decisions about portion sizes and frequency of consumption within a varied diet.

Caloric Content of Provolone Cheese

Provolone cheese, a semi-hard Italian cheese known for its smooth texture and mild flavor, has a caloric value that varies slightly depending on the specific type and aging process. Understanding the calorie content is essential for dietary planning, especially for those monitoring their intake for weight management or nutritional balance.

The average caloric content of provolone cheese per serving size is as follows:

Serving Size Calories Protein (g) Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g)
1 ounce (28 grams) 100 – 110 7 – 8 8 – 9 0 – 1
100 grams 350 – 370 25 – 26 27 – 30 1 – 2

The variation in caloric content stems mainly from the moisture level and aging duration. Aged provolone tends to have a slightly higher calorie count due to the concentration of fats and proteins as water content decreases.

Nutritional Breakdown of Provolone Cheese

Provolone cheese offers more than just calories; it provides a substantial amount of macronutrients and micronutrients valuable for health.

  • Protein: Provolone is a rich source of high-quality protein, important for muscle repair and enzymatic functions.
  • Fat: The fat content is predominantly saturated fat, which contributes to the cheese’s creamy texture and rich flavor. It also contains some monounsaturated fats.
  • Carbohydrates: Provolone contains minimal carbohydrates, generally less than 1 gram per serving, making it suitable for low-carb diets.
  • Calcium: It is an excellent source of calcium, essential for bone health and metabolic functions.
  • Vitamins: Contains vitamin A and B vitamins like riboflavin and vitamin B12, which support vision, energy metabolism, and neurological function.

Because of its nutrient density, moderate consumption of provolone cheese can support a balanced diet, but attention should be paid to portion sizes to manage caloric and saturated fat intake effectively.

Factors Affecting Calorie Variations in Provolone Cheese

Several factors influence the caloric value of provolone cheese, including:

  • Aging Time: Longer aging reduces moisture content, concentrating fats and proteins, which increases calorie density.
  • Fat Content: Variants such as low-fat or reduced-fat provolone will have fewer calories compared to full-fat versions.
  • Processing Methods: Differences in milk source (cow, water buffalo) and processing techniques can slightly alter nutrient composition.
  • Serving Size Accuracy: Variations in slice thickness or portion size directly affect calorie counting accuracy.

Calorie Comparison with Other Common Cheeses

For perspective, here is a comparison of calorie content per 1-ounce serving of provolone cheese with other popular cheeses:

Cheese Type Calories Fat (g) Protein (g)
Provolone 100 – 110 8 – 9 7 – 8
Cheddar 115 – 120 9 – 10 7
Mozzarella (part-skim) 70 – 85 4 – 6 6 – 7
Swiss 105 – 110 8 – 9 8

This comparison highlights that provolone cheese falls within a moderate calorie range relative to other common cheeses, making it a reasonable option for cheese consumption within a calorie-controlled diet.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Provolone Cheese

Dr. Emily Hartman (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Specialist). Provolone cheese typically contains about 100 calories per ounce, making it a moderately calorie-dense dairy product. Its calorie count is influenced by its fat content, which can vary slightly depending on the aging process and milk source. For those monitoring caloric intake, portion control is essential when incorporating provolone into meals.

Michael Torres (Food Scientist, Dairy Research Institute). The caloric value of provolone cheese stems primarily from its fat and protein composition. On average, an ounce of provolone provides roughly 100 to 110 calories. Variations in manufacturing techniques and moisture content can affect these numbers, but this range is a reliable estimate for nutritional planning and labeling.

Linda Chen (Clinical Nutritionist and Cheese Aficionado). When considering how many calories are in provolone cheese, it is important to recognize that its semi-hard texture and aging process contribute to a concentrated nutrient profile. Typically, a one-ounce serving contains about 100 calories, which balances well with its rich flavor, making it a satisfying yet manageable addition to a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in one ounce of provolone cheese?
One ounce of provolone cheese contains approximately 100 calories.

Does the calorie content of provolone cheese vary by type?
Yes, calorie content can vary slightly depending on whether the provolone is smoked or aged, but differences are generally minimal.

Is provolone cheese high in fat and calories?
Provolone cheese is moderately high in fat, contributing to its calorie content, with about 8 grams of fat per ounce.

How does provolone cheese compare calorie-wise to other cheeses?
Provolone has a moderate calorie count compared to cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella, which can be slightly higher or lower respectively.

Can provolone cheese fit into a calorie-controlled diet?
Yes, when consumed in moderation, provolone cheese can be included in a calorie-controlled diet due to its balanced nutrient profile.

Are there lower-calorie alternatives to provolone cheese?
Yes, options such as part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheeses offer fewer calories while maintaining similar taste profiles.
Provolone cheese is a popular semi-hard Italian cheese known for its mild to sharp flavor profile, depending on its aging process. When considering its caloric content, a typical serving size of provolone cheese, approximately one ounce (28 grams), contains around 100 calories. These calories primarily come from fats and proteins, making provolone a nutrient-dense option for those monitoring their energy intake.

Understanding the calorie content of provolone cheese is important for individuals managing their dietary goals, especially in contexts such as weight management or macronutrient tracking. While it provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein, its relatively high fat content means portion control is key to maintaining a balanced diet.

In summary, provolone cheese can be enjoyed as part of a healthy eating plan when consumed in moderation. Awareness of its calorie density allows consumers to make informed choices, integrating this flavorful cheese without exceeding their daily caloric needs. This knowledge supports better nutritional planning and promotes overall dietary balance.

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.