How Many Calories Are in Mozzarella Shredded Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Fresh Mozzarella & Ricotta

When it comes to adding a delicious, creamy touch to your favorite dishes, shredded mozzarella cheese is often a go-to choice. Whether melted atop a classic pizza, stirred into a hearty pasta, or sprinkled over a fresh salad, this versatile cheese brings both flavor and texture that can elevate any meal. But for those mindful of their nutritional intake, a common question arises: how many calories are in mozzarella shredded cheese?

Understanding the calorie content of mozzarella shredded cheese is essential for anyone looking to balance taste with health goals. Cheese, while rich in nutrients like calcium and protein, can also contribute significantly to daily calorie consumption depending on portion size and type. This makes it important to have a clear idea of what you’re adding to your plate, especially if you’re tracking calories for weight management or specific dietary needs.

In this article, we’ll explore the calorie content of shredded mozzarella cheese and offer insights into how it fits into various eating plans. Whether you’re a cheese lover aiming to enjoy your favorite dishes guilt-free or simply curious about the nutritional profile of this popular dairy product, you’re in the right place to learn more.

Caloric Content of Mozzarella Shredded Cheese

Mozzarella shredded cheese is a popular dairy product known for its meltability and mild flavor. When considering its caloric content, it is important to note that the exact number of calories can vary based on the brand, fat content, and whether the cheese is part-skim or whole milk mozzarella.

On average, a typical serving size of shredded mozzarella cheese is about 1 ounce (28 grams). This serving size generally contains between 70 to 85 calories. The variation primarily depends on whether the cheese is made from whole milk or part-skim milk. Part-skim mozzarella tends to have fewer calories and less fat compared to whole milk versions.

Factors influencing calorie content include:

  • Fat content: Whole milk mozzarella has a higher fat percentage, increasing caloric density.
  • Moisture level: Mozzarella with higher moisture content can have slightly fewer calories per ounce.
  • Additives: Some shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents or preservatives, but these usually have a negligible impact on calorie count.

Calorie Breakdown by Fat and Protein

The calories in shredded mozzarella cheese come primarily from fat and protein, with a minor contribution from carbohydrates. Understanding the macronutrient profile helps clarify the source of these calories.

  • Fat provides 9 calories per gram.
  • Protein provides 4 calories per gram.
  • Carbohydrates also provide 4 calories per gram but are minimal in mozzarella cheese.

The typical macronutrient content for 1 ounce (28 grams) of shredded mozzarella is approximately:

  • Fat: 6 to 7 grams
  • Protein: 6 to 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 1 gram or less

Below is a detailed table illustrating the average nutritional content and calorie contribution for shredded mozzarella cheese per 1-ounce serving:

Nutrient Amount (g) Calories per gram Total Calories
Fat 7 9 63
Protein 6 4 24
Carbohydrates 1 4 4
Total ~91

Note that the total calories sum to approximately 90 to 100 calories, but many nutrition labels list slightly lower values (70–85 calories) due to rounding and product variation.

Comparing Part-Skim and Whole Milk Mozzarella

Choosing between part-skim and whole milk mozzarella shredded cheese can significantly affect caloric intake, especially when consumed in larger quantities. Here are some key distinctions:

  • Part-Skim Mozzarella:
  • Lower fat content (typically 4 to 5 grams per ounce)
  • Lower calorie count (around 70 calories per ounce)
  • Slightly firmer texture and less creamy flavor
  • Whole Milk Mozzarella:
  • Higher fat content (about 7 grams per ounce)
  • Higher calorie count (approximately 85 calories per ounce)
  • Creamier texture and richer flavor

For individuals tracking calories or aiming to reduce fat intake, part-skim mozzarella is generally the preferable option without sacrificing too much in terms of taste or melting properties.

Portion Control and Caloric Impact

Because mozzarella shredded cheese is commonly used as a topping or ingredient, portion size can quickly increase calorie consumption. For example, using 2 ounces of shredded mozzarella doubles the calorie intake compared to a 1-ounce serving.

Tips for managing calorie intake from shredded mozzarella cheese:

  • Measure portions carefully rather than estimating by eye.
  • Use part-skim versions to reduce fat and calories.
  • Combine with lower-calorie ingredients such as vegetables to increase volume without adding many calories.
  • Consider using alternative cheeses or cheese blends with lower fat content if appropriate.

Understanding the caloric content and macronutrient composition of shredded mozzarella cheese allows for better dietary planning and informed choices in meal preparation.

Caloric Content of Mozzarella Shredded Cheese

Mozzarella shredded cheese is a popular dairy product used in various culinary applications, from pizzas to salads. Understanding its caloric content is essential for managing dietary intake, especially for those monitoring calories for health or weight management purposes.

The calorie count in mozzarella shredded cheese can vary based on factors such as fat content (whole milk vs. part-skim), moisture level, and brand-specific formulations. However, standard nutritional data provides a reliable baseline for general guidance.

Calories per Common Serving Sizes

Below is a table summarizing the typical caloric values associated with different serving sizes of shredded mozzarella cheese:

Serving Size Calories Fat Content (g) Protein Content (g)
1 tablespoon (7 g) 20–25 kcal 1.5–2 g 1.5–2 g
1/4 cup shredded (28 g) 80–90 kcal 6–7 g 6–7 g
1 cup shredded (112 g) 320–360 kcal 24–28 g 24–28 g

Factors Influencing Caloric Variation

Several variables can affect the precise calorie count in shredded mozzarella cheese:

  • Type of Milk Used: Whole milk mozzarella contains more fat and therefore more calories compared to part-skim or low-fat mozzarella.
  • Moisture Content: Fresh mozzarella tends to have higher moisture, reducing calorie density, whereas low-moisture shredded mozzarella is more calorie-dense.
  • Added Ingredients: Some shredded cheeses include anti-caking agents or preservatives, which generally do not significantly affect calorie content but can slightly alter weight or volume.
  • Brand Formulation: Different manufacturers may have slight recipe differences impacting fat and protein levels.

Nutritional Breakdown per 1/4 Cup Serving of Standard Part-Skim Mozzarella

Nutrient Amount % Daily Value*
Calories 85 kcal 4%
Total Fat 6.3 g 8%
Saturated Fat 3.8 g 19%
Cholesterol 22 mg 7%
Sodium 175 mg 8%
Protein 6.3 g 13%
Calcium 200 mg 20%

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

Tips for Calorie-Conscious Consumption

  • Measure Portions: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to avoid underestimating calorie intake from cheese.
  • Choose Part-Skim Options: Opting for part-skim mozzarella reduces fat and calories without greatly compromising flavor or texture.
  • Consider Alternative Cheeses: Lower-fat or plant-based cheese alternatives may offer fewer calories per serving.
  • Combine with Vegetables: Incorporating shredded mozzarella into vegetable-heavy dishes can provide flavor with lower overall calorie density.

Expert Perspectives on Caloric Content in Mozzarella Shredded Cheese

Dr. Emily Hartman (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). Mozzarella shredded cheese typically contains around 70 to 85 calories per ounce, depending on the fat content and brand. It is important to consider serving size when calculating caloric intake, especially for those managing weight or monitoring dairy consumption.

Michael Torres (Food Technologist and Dairy Industry Consultant). The caloric value in shredded mozzarella cheese varies slightly due to moisture levels and processing methods. On average, a standard shredded mozzarella cheese contains approximately 80 calories per ounce, with whole milk versions being higher in calories compared to part-skim varieties.

Linda Chen (Clinical Nutritionist and Wellness Coach). When assessing how many calories are in mozzarella shredded cheese, it is crucial to read nutrition labels carefully. Typically, one serving size of about 28 grams (1 ounce) provides roughly 70 to 85 calories, making it a moderate-calorie dairy option that fits well into balanced diets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese?
One cup of shredded mozzarella cheese contains approximately 320 to 340 calories, depending on the brand and moisture content.

Does part-skim mozzarella shredded cheese have fewer calories than whole milk mozzarella?
Yes, part-skim mozzarella shredded cheese typically has fewer calories, usually around 280 to 300 calories per cup, compared to whole milk varieties.

How do calories in shredded mozzarella cheese compare to other shredded cheeses?
Shredded mozzarella cheese generally has fewer calories than shredded cheddar or Parmesan, making it a lower-calorie option among popular cheeses.

Are calories in shredded mozzarella cheese affected by the moisture content?
Yes, higher moisture content in shredded mozzarella cheese usually results in slightly fewer calories per serving due to increased water weight.

Is shredded mozzarella cheese a good option for calorie-conscious diets?
Shredded mozzarella cheese can be a moderate-calorie option, especially the part-skim variety, but portion control is essential to manage overall calorie intake.

How does the serving size impact the calorie count of shredded mozzarella cheese?
Calorie count increases proportionally with serving size; for example, a typical serving of 1 ounce (28 grams) contains about 80 calories, so larger portions significantly raise calorie intake.
In summary, shredded mozzarella cheese is a popular dairy product commonly used in various culinary applications, and its calorie content is an important consideration for those monitoring their dietary intake. On average, one ounce (28 grams) of shredded mozzarella cheese contains approximately 80 to 85 calories. This calorie count can vary slightly depending on the brand, moisture content, and whether the cheese is part-skim or whole milk.

Understanding the calorie content of shredded mozzarella cheese helps individuals make informed nutritional choices, especially when incorporating it into meals like pizzas, salads, or casseroles. Additionally, mozzarella provides valuable nutrients such as protein and calcium, which contribute to a balanced diet. However, due to its fat content, moderation is advised for those managing calorie intake or following specific dietary goals.

Overall, shredded mozzarella cheese can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet when consumed in appropriate portions. Being aware of its calorie density and nutritional profile enables consumers to better align their food choices with their health objectives, ensuring both flavor and nutrition are optimized.

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.