How Many Calories Are in Shredded Mozzarella Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Fresh Mozzarella & Ricotta

When it comes to crafting the perfect pizza, topping a fresh slice with shredded mozzarella cheese is often the crowning touch. But beyond its deliciously melty texture and mild flavor, many people wonder about the nutritional impact of this popular dairy ingredient. Understanding how many calories are in shredded mozzarella cheese can be a key factor for those mindful of their diet, whether they’re counting calories, managing weight, or simply striving for balanced nutrition.

Cheese, in general, is known for being rich in protein and calcium, but it can also be calorie-dense depending on the type and serving size. Shredded mozzarella, commonly used in everything from salads to casseroles, varies in calorie content based on factors like fat percentage and moisture levels. This makes it important to grasp the basics before diving into meal planning or portion control.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the calorie content of shredded mozzarella cheese in detail, along with insights into how it fits into different dietary goals. Whether you’re a cheese lover or just curious about its nutritional profile, gaining a clearer picture will help you make informed choices without sacrificing flavor.

Caloric Content of Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

The calorie content of shredded mozzarella cheese can vary depending on factors such as moisture content, fat percentage, and whether the cheese is part-skim or whole milk. Typically, shredded mozzarella cheese is available in three common varieties: whole milk, part-skim, and low-moisture. These variations influence the overall caloric density.

On average, the calorie content for shredded mozzarella cheese per 1-ounce (28 grams) serving is as follows:

Type of Shredded Mozzarella Calories per 1 oz (28g) Fat (g) Protein (g) Carbohydrates (g)
Whole Milk Mozzarella 85-90 6-7 6-7 1
Part-Skim Mozzarella 70-80 4-5 7-8 1
Low-Moisture Mozzarella 75-85 5-6 7-8 1

These values are approximate and may vary by brand and specific product formulation. The fat content contributes most to the calorie count since fat provides 9 calories per gram, whereas protein and carbohydrates provide 4 calories per gram each.

Factors Affecting Calorie Variation in Mozzarella Cheese

Several factors can influence the calorie content in shredded mozzarella cheese:

  • Milk Fat Content: Whole milk mozzarella contains more fat, increasing calorie density compared to part-skim or low-fat versions.
  • Moisture Level: Low-moisture mozzarella tends to have a more concentrated nutrient profile, including calories, since less water dilutes the cheese.
  • Added Ingredients: Some shredded cheeses include anti-caking agents or preservatives, which may slightly alter the nutritional content.
  • Serving Size Accuracy: Shredded cheese can vary in density, making precise portion control important when counting calories.

When purchasing shredded mozzarella, it is advisable to check the nutrition label to understand the specific calorie content and serving size.

Comparing Shredded Mozzarella Calories to Other Cheese Types

Understanding how shredded mozzarella compares to other cheeses in terms of calories helps with dietary planning. Here is a brief comparison:

Cheese Type Calories per 1 oz (28g) Fat (g) Protein (g)
Shredded Mozzarella (Whole Milk) 85-90 6-7 6-7
Cheddar 110-115 9-10 7
Parmesan (Grated) 110-120 7-8 10
Feta 75-80 6-7 4-5

Mozzarella generally provides fewer calories per ounce compared to harder cheeses like cheddar or parmesan, making it a popular choice for those seeking lower-calorie cheese options without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Tips for Managing Caloric Intake with Shredded Mozzarella

To effectively manage calorie consumption while enjoying shredded mozzarella cheese, consider the following:

  • Measure Portions Accurately: Use a kitchen scale to ensure serving sizes align with nutritional information.
  • Opt for Part-Skim or Low-Fat Versions: These provide fewer calories and less fat while maintaining protein content.
  • Incorporate Cheese as a Flavor Enhancer: Use smaller amounts to add flavor to dishes instead of large quantities.
  • Combine with Low-Calorie Ingredients: Mix shredded mozzarella with vegetables or whole grains to balance caloric intake.
  • Check Labels for Added Ingredients: Choose products without unnecessary additives that may increase calorie count.

By understanding the nutritional profile and applying portion control, shredded mozzarella cheese can be included in a balanced diet without excessive calorie intake.

Caloric Content of Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Shredded mozzarella cheese is a popular choice for a variety of dishes, including pizzas, pastas, and salads. Understanding its caloric content is essential for managing dietary intake and maintaining nutritional balance.

The number of calories in shredded mozzarella cheese primarily depends on the serving size and the fat content of the cheese. Mozzarella is typically available in full-fat (whole milk), part-skim, and fat-free varieties, each with distinct caloric values.

Type of Mozzarella Serving Size Calories per Serving Fat Content (g) Protein Content (g)
Whole Milk Mozzarella 1 cup (approximately 113g) 320 kcal 24 g 28 g
Part-Skim Mozzarella 1 cup (approximately 113g) 280 kcal 17 g 29 g
Fat-Free Mozzarella 1 cup (approximately 113g) 180 kcal 0.5 g 33 g

Nutritional Breakdown and Factors Affecting Calories

The calorie content in shredded mozzarella is influenced by its macronutrient composition. Fat contributes 9 calories per gram, while protein and carbohydrates contribute 4 calories per gram each. Mozzarella cheese is low in carbohydrates, so calories mainly come from fat and protein.

Key factors affecting the calorie content include:

  • Fat Percentage: Whole milk mozzarella contains more fat than part-skim or fat-free varieties, increasing calorie density.
  • Moisture Content: Fresh mozzarella has higher moisture, which slightly lowers calories per volume compared to aged, drier mozzarella.
  • Serving Size Accuracy: Pre-packaged shredded cheese may have varying densities, so measuring by weight is more accurate than volume.

Caloric Estimates for Common Serving Sizes

To provide practical guidance, here are typical calorie counts for commonly used portions of shredded mozzarella cheese:

Serving Size Calories (Whole Milk Mozzarella) Calories (Part-Skim Mozzarella) Calories (Fat-Free Mozzarella)
1 tablespoon (about 7 g) 20 kcal 16 kcal 11 kcal
1/4 cup (about 28 g) 80 kcal 70 kcal 44 kcal
1/2 cup (about 56 g) 160 kcal 140 kcal 88 kcal
1 cup (about 113 g) 320 kcal 280 kcal 180 kcal

Considerations for Dietary Planning

When incorporating shredded mozzarella cheese into your diet, consider the following:

  • Portion Control: Since mozzarella is calorie-dense, especially the whole milk variety, measuring portions helps manage calorie intake.
  • Fat Content Selection: Choosing part-skim or fat-free mozzarella can reduce calories and saturated fat without sacrificing protein.
  • Complementary Ingredients: Combining mozzarella with vegetables and lean proteins can create balanced meals with controlled calorie counts.
  • Cooking Method: Melting cheese can reduce volume, so be mindful of how much you use when preparing dishes.

Expert Nutritional Insights on Calories in Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Dr. Emily Hartman (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). “Shredded mozzarella cheese typically contains around 80 to 90 calories per ounce, depending on the moisture content and fat level. Part-skim varieties tend to have fewer calories compared to whole milk versions, making them a better choice for those monitoring caloric intake.”

Michael Torres (Food Chemist and Dairy Product Specialist). “The calorie count in shredded mozzarella is influenced by the cheese’s water content and processing method. Freshly shredded mozzarella from whole milk generally carries about 85 calories per ounce, while low-moisture shredded mozzarella can be slightly higher due to reduced water weight.”

Linda Chen (Clinical Nutritionist and Culinary Expert). “When calculating calories for shredded mozzarella cheese, it’s important to consider portion size carefully. Many pre-packaged shredded cheeses list calories per 1/4 cup serving, which is approximately 28 grams and contains roughly 80 calories, but this can vary with brand and fat content.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese?
One cup of shredded mozzarella cheese typically contains approximately 280 to 320 calories, depending on the brand and fat content.

Does the calorie count vary between whole milk and part-skim shredded mozzarella?
Yes, whole milk shredded mozzarella generally has more calories, around 85 calories per ounce, while part-skim varieties contain about 70 to 80 calories per ounce.

How does shredded mozzarella cheese compare calorie-wise to other cheeses?
Shredded mozzarella is relatively lower in calories compared to harder cheeses like cheddar or parmesan, which often contain 110 to 120 calories per ounce.

Are there low-calorie shredded mozzarella options available?
Yes, reduced-fat or part-skim shredded mozzarella cheeses offer fewer calories and less fat, making them suitable for calorie-conscious diets.

Do added ingredients in shredded mozzarella affect its calorie content?
Yes, additives such as anti-caking agents or preservatives have minimal impact on calories, but flavored or blended cheese mixes may increase the calorie count.

How should shredded mozzarella cheese be portioned to control calorie intake?
Using a kitchen scale or measuring cups to portion shredded mozzarella ensures accurate calorie tracking and helps maintain dietary goals.
Shredded mozzarella cheese is a popular ingredient known for its creamy texture and mild flavor, often used in a variety of dishes such as pizzas, salads, and casseroles. When considering its caloric content, it is important to note that the number of calories can vary slightly depending on the brand and whether it is part-skim or whole milk mozzarella. On average, one cup (about 113 grams) of shredded mozzarella cheese contains approximately 280 to 320 calories.

Understanding the calorie content of shredded mozzarella cheese is essential for those managing their daily caloric intake or following specific dietary plans. It is a good source of protein and calcium, but it also contains saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation. Portion control is key to incorporating shredded mozzarella cheese into a balanced diet without exceeding calorie goals.

In summary, shredded mozzarella cheese provides a moderate calorie count with nutritional benefits, making it a versatile and flavorful addition to meals. Being mindful of serving sizes and nutritional labels will help individuals make informed dietary choices while enjoying this cheese in their favorite recipes.

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.