How Many Calories Are in Pepper Jack Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Nutrition & Health

Pepper Jack cheese is a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional Monterey Jack, beloved by cheese enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Its creamy texture combined with the kick of peppers makes it a popular choice for adding zest to sandwiches, snacks, and recipes. But beyond its bold taste, many people are curious about the nutritional impact of including this cheese in their diet—particularly when it comes to calorie content.

Understanding how many calories are in Pepper Jack cheese is essential for those mindful of their dietary intake, whether they are managing weight, tracking macros, or simply aiming for a balanced diet. Cheese, while delicious and rich in nutrients, can vary widely in calorie density depending on type and serving size. Pepper Jack’s unique blend of creaminess and spice adds an extra layer of interest to this nutritional consideration.

In this article, we will explore the calorie content of Pepper Jack cheese and discuss factors that influence its nutritional profile. Whether you’re a casual cheese lover or someone carefully monitoring your food choices, gaining insight into the calories in Pepper Jack can help you enjoy it wisely and deliciously.

Caloric Content and Nutritional Breakdown of Pepper Jack Cheese

Pepper Jack cheese is a flavorful variety of Monterey Jack cheese infused with spicy peppers, offering not only a distinctive taste but also a specific nutritional profile. Understanding its caloric content and macronutrient breakdown is essential for those managing their dietary intake, especially when considering cheese as part of a balanced diet.

On average, a one-ounce (28-gram) serving of Pepper Jack cheese contains approximately 100 calories. This caloric value primarily comes from fats and proteins inherent in the cheese. The presence of peppers does not significantly alter the calorie count but contributes to the cheese’s unique flavor profile.

To better understand the nutritional aspects, here is a detailed breakdown per one-ounce serving:

Nutrient Amount per 1 oz (28g) Percentage of Daily Value*
Calories 100 kcal 5%
Total Fat 8 g 12%
Saturated Fat 5 g 25%
Cholesterol 25 mg 8%
Sodium 180 mg 8%
Protein 6 g 12%
Carbohydrates 1 g 0%
Calcium 200 mg 20%

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

Factors Influencing Calorie Content

Several factors may affect the calorie content of Pepper Jack cheese, including:

  • Brand and formulation: Different manufacturers may vary in fat content and moisture levels, influencing calories.
  • Aging time: More aged cheeses tend to have a denser nutrient profile due to moisture loss.
  • Serving size: Actual consumption may differ from standard serving sizes, impacting caloric intake.

Nutritional Considerations

  • Fat content: Pepper Jack cheese has a moderate to high fat content, predominantly saturated fat, which should be considered in heart-healthy diets.
  • Protein: It provides a good source of protein, aiding in muscle repair and satiety.
  • Sodium: The cheese contains a moderate amount of sodium, which can contribute to overall daily sodium intake.
  • Calcium: A rich source of calcium, Pepper Jack supports bone health and metabolic functions.

When incorporating Pepper Jack cheese into meal planning, it is advisable to balance its intake with other nutrient-dense foods to maintain overall dietary quality.

Caloric Content of Pepper Jack Cheese

Pepper Jack cheese is a flavorful variation of Monterey Jack, infused with spicy chili peppers and herbs. Its caloric content is influenced by its fat content, moisture level, and added ingredients. Understanding the calorie count is essential for dietary planning and nutritional awareness.

Average Calories in Pepper Jack Cheese

The typical caloric value of Pepper Jack cheese is comparable to other semi-soft cheeses but can vary slightly based on brand and preparation methods. The following table summarizes the average calories found in standard serving sizes:

Serving Size Calories Fat (g) Protein (g) Carbohydrates (g)
1 ounce (28 g) 100 – 110 8 – 9 6 – 7 0.5 – 1
100 grams 350 – 390 28 – 32 23 – 25 2 – 3

Factors Affecting Caloric Content

Several variables can influence the exact calorie count in Pepper Jack cheese:

  • Fat Content: Full-fat versions contain higher calories, while reduced-fat or light versions have fewer.
  • Moisture Level: Higher moisture lowers calorie density, as water adds weight without calories.
  • Added Ingredients: Peppers and spices contribute negligible calories but can affect overall composition.
  • Brand Variations: Different manufacturers may have proprietary recipes affecting fat and moisture percentages.

Nutritional Breakdown

Pepper Jack cheese provides a balanced macronutrient profile, primarily consisting of fat and protein. Its carbohydrate content is minimal due to the cheese-making process.

  • Fat: Provides energy and essential fatty acids. It also contributes to the creamy texture and rich flavor.
  • Protein: Supports muscle maintenance and repair; cheese is a complete protein source.
  • Carbohydrates: Usually under 1 gram per serving, mainly from residual lactose.

Incorporating Pepper Jack Cheese into Diets

When accounting for Pepper Jack cheese in calorie-controlled diets, consider the following:

  • Use portion control to manage caloric intake.
  • Pair with low-calorie foods such as vegetables to enhance satiety.
  • Choose reduced-fat varieties if limiting fat consumption.
  • Be mindful of sodium content, as Pepper Jack can have moderate to high sodium levels.

By understanding its caloric content and nutritional profile, Pepper Jack cheese can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet without unexpected caloric surplus.

Expert Perspectives on the Caloric Content of Pepper Jack Cheese

Dr. Linda Marshall (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). Pepper Jack cheese typically contains around 100 calories per ounce. This makes it a moderately calorie-dense food, so portion control is important when incorporating it into a balanced diet, especially for those monitoring their caloric intake.

James O’Connor (Food Technologist and Dairy Product Specialist). The calorie count in Pepper Jack cheese primarily comes from its fat content, which averages about 8 grams per ounce. Variations can occur depending on the brand and aging process, but generally, one ounce provides roughly 100 to 110 calories.

Dr. Emily Chen (Clinical Nutritionist and Cheese Connoisseur). When considering Pepper Jack cheese in meal planning, it is essential to note that its spicy flavor often encourages smaller servings. This can help manage calorie consumption effectively, as each ounce contains approximately 100 calories, combining fat and protein energy sources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in one ounce of Pepper Jack cheese?
One ounce of Pepper Jack cheese contains approximately 100 to 110 calories, depending on the brand and specific recipe.

Does the calorie content of Pepper Jack cheese vary by fat percentage?
Yes, full-fat Pepper Jack cheese typically has more calories than reduced-fat or low-fat versions due to higher fat content.

How does Pepper Jack cheese compare calorie-wise to other cheeses?
Pepper Jack cheese has a similar calorie range to other semi-soft cheeses like Monterey Jack and Colby, generally between 100 to 120 calories per ounce.

Are the calories in Pepper Jack cheese mainly from fat or protein?
Most calories in Pepper Jack cheese come from fat, with a moderate contribution from protein and minimal carbohydrates.

Can Pepper Jack cheese fit into a calorie-controlled diet?
Yes, Pepper Jack cheese can be included in a calorie-controlled diet when consumed in moderation and accounted for within daily caloric goals.

Does adding spices or peppers affect the calorie count of Pepper Jack cheese?
The addition of spices or peppers has a negligible impact on the calorie content of Pepper Jack cheese.
Pepper Jack cheese is a flavorful variety of Monterey Jack cheese infused with spicy peppers, offering a unique taste experience. When considering its nutritional content, it typically contains around 100 to 110 calories per one-ounce (28-gram) serving. This calorie count is comparable to many other semi-soft cheeses, making it a moderate source of energy within a balanced diet.

In addition to calories, Pepper Jack cheese provides valuable nutrients such as protein, calcium, and fat. The fat content contributes significantly to its calorie density, so portion control is important for those monitoring their caloric intake. Its combination of fat and protein also helps promote satiety, which can be beneficial in managing hunger between meals.

Overall, Pepper Jack cheese can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation. Being mindful of serving sizes and incorporating it alongside nutrient-rich foods will help maximize its benefits while managing calorie consumption effectively. Understanding the calorie content and nutritional profile of Pepper Jack cheese allows individuals to make informed dietary choices aligned with their health goals.

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.