How Many Calories Are in One Slice of Cheddar Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Nutrition & Health

When it comes to making mindful dietary choices, understanding the nutritional content of everyday foods is essential. Cheddar cheese, a beloved staple in many kitchens, often finds its way onto sandwiches, snacks, and recipes. But have you ever paused to wonder exactly how many calories are packed into just one slice of this flavorful cheese? Knowing this information can help you balance taste and nutrition with greater ease.

Cheddar cheese is known for its rich taste and creamy texture, making it a popular addition to meals and snacks alike. However, like many dairy products, it contains a concentrated amount of calories and nutrients that can impact your daily intake. Whether you’re counting calories, managing your weight, or simply curious about what you’re eating, understanding the caloric content of a single slice can provide valuable insight.

In the sections ahead, we’ll explore the calorie count of one slice of cheddar cheese, discuss factors that may influence this number, and consider how it fits into a balanced diet. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions while still enjoying the deliciousness that cheddar cheese brings to your table.

Caloric Content and Nutritional Breakdown of a Slice of Cheddar Cheese

The number of calories in one slice of cheddar cheese can vary depending on the thickness and size of the slice, as well as the specific brand or type of cheddar. On average, a standard slice of cheddar cheese weighs approximately 20 grams. This portion size typically contains between 70 to 110 calories, primarily derived from fat and protein.

Cheddar cheese is a nutrient-dense food, providing more than just calories. Its macronutrient profile is important to consider when evaluating its place in a balanced diet. The calorie content largely comes from its fat content, but protein also contributes a significant portion of the energy.

Key nutritional components in one slice of cheddar cheese (approx. 20g) include:

  • Calories: 80 to 110 kcal
  • Total Fat: 7 to 9 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5 to 6 grams
  • Protein: 5 to 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram
  • Calcium: Around 200 mg (20% of daily recommended intake)

The fat content, especially saturated fat, is a notable consideration for those monitoring heart health. However, the protein and calcium content offer important nutritional benefits, supporting muscle maintenance and bone health.

Nutrient Amount per Slice (20g) % Daily Value*
Calories 90 kcal 4.5%
Total Fat 8 g 12%
Saturated Fat 5 g 25%
Protein 6 g 12%
Carbohydrates 0.5 g 0.2%
Calcium 200 mg 20%

*Percent daily values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Cheddar cheese’s nutrient density makes it a valuable addition to many diets, especially when consumed in moderation. Understanding the calorie and nutrient content of a single slice helps in meal planning and tracking overall dietary intake.

Factors Influencing Calorie Variation in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Several factors can influence the caloric content of a slice of cheddar cheese, causing variation between brands and serving sizes:

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Thicker slices naturally contain more cheese and calories. The standard 20g slice is an average; some slices may weigh 15g or up to 30g.
  • Cheese Type and Fat Content: Full-fat cheddar contains more calories than reduced-fat or low-fat versions. Some brands offer “light” cheddar with lower fat and calories.
  • Moisture Content: Aged cheddar tends to have less moisture and more concentrated nutrients, potentially altering calorie density.
  • Additives and Processing: Some processed cheese slices include additional ingredients that can affect calorie count, such as emulsifiers or added oils.

When monitoring calorie intake, it is important to check the nutritional label for the exact calorie count per slice or per weight. Packaging often specifies calories per serving size, which may differ from a single slice.

Comparing Calories in Cheddar Cheese to Other Common Cheese Slices

Cheddar cheese is one of the more calorie-dense common cheeses, but it is useful to compare it against other popular cheese types to understand its relative energy contribution.

Cheese Type Average Calories per Slice (20g) Typical Fat Content (g)
Cheddar 90 kcal 8 g
Swiss 80 kcal 6.5 g
American Processed 60 kcal 5 g
Mozzarella (part-skim) 70 kcal 5 g
Provolone 85 kcal 7 g

This comparison highlights that cheddar cheese is somewhat higher in calories and fat compared to mozzarella or American processed cheese slices. However, cheddar typically offers a richer flavor profile and higher protein content, which may justify its caloric density for certain dietary goals.

Practical Tips for Managing Caloric Intake with Cheddar Cheese

When incorporating cheddar cheese into a diet, consider the following strategies to manage caloric intake effectively without sacrificing enjoyment:

  • Use thinner slices or measure portions by weight to control calorie consumption precisely.
  • Opt for reduced-fat or light cheddar variants if aiming to lower fat and calorie intake.
  • Combine cheese with nutrient-rich, low-calorie foods such as vegetables to increase meal volume without excessive calories.

Caloric Content of a Single Slice of Cheddar Cheese

The number of calories in one slice of cheddar cheese depends primarily on the slice’s weight and thickness, as well as the specific brand or type of cheddar used. Typically, cheddar cheese slices are pre-packaged and standardized in weight, which makes it easier to estimate their caloric value.

Cheddar cheese is a high-fat dairy product, which contributes to its relatively dense caloric content. On average, cheddar cheese contains approximately 4 to 5 calories per gram. Since slices vary, it is important to consider typical slice weights for accuracy.

Type of Slice Approximate Weight (grams) Calories per Slice Fat Content (grams) Protein Content (grams)
Standard Pre-packaged Slice 20 80 – 90 7 – 8 5 – 6
Thick Cut Slice 28 110 – 120 9 – 10 7 – 8
Thin Cut Slice 15 60 – 70 5 – 6 4 – 5

Factors Affecting Calorie Count

  • Moisture Content: Cheddar with higher moisture content tends to have slightly fewer calories per gram.
  • Fat Percentage: Full-fat cheddar has more calories compared to reduced-fat or low-fat versions.
  • Slice Thickness: Thicker slices naturally contain more calories due to increased mass.
  • Brand Variations: Different manufacturers may have slight variations in caloric content due to processing and ingredients.

Nutritional Breakdown of a Typical Slice

  • Calories: Approximately 80 to 90 calories per 20-gram slice.
  • Total Fat: Around 7 to 8 grams, predominantly saturated fat.
  • Protein: Roughly 5 to 6 grams, providing a good source of dairy protein.
  • Carbohydrates: Usually less than 1 gram, as cheese contains minimal lactose.

Understanding these parameters is essential for accurate dietary tracking, especially for individuals monitoring calorie intake or macronutrient distribution.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Dr. Emily Hartman (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). A single slice of cheddar cheese typically contains around 110 to 120 calories, depending on the thickness and brand. This calorie count primarily comes from fat content, which makes cheddar a dense source of energy. For those monitoring caloric intake, it is important to consider portion size carefully when including cheddar cheese in meals.

Michael Chen (Food Technologist and Dairy Product Specialist). The caloric value in one slice of cheddar cheese can vary slightly due to moisture levels and aging processes, but on average, it ranges between 100 and 115 calories. Cheddar’s fat composition contributes significantly to this number, and variations in fat percentage—such as reduced-fat versus full-fat cheddar—will alter the calorie content accordingly.

Dr. Laura Simmons (Clinical Nutritionist and Metabolic Health Expert). When assessing how many calories are in one slice of cheddar cheese, it’s essential to recognize that the standard slice weighs about 20 to 25 grams. This translates to roughly 110 calories, with the majority coming from saturated fats and proteins. For individuals tracking their macros or managing weight, understanding these details helps in making informed dietary choices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in one slice of cheddar cheese?
One slice of cheddar cheese typically contains around 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 full-fat, reduced-fat, or processed.

How does the calorie count of cheddar cheese compare to other types of cheese slices?
Cheddar cheese generally has a moderate calorie count compared to other cheeses; for example, mozzarella slices often have fewer calories, while processed cheese slices may have more.

Are there lower-calorie cheddar cheese options available?
Yes, reduced-fat or light cheddar cheese slices are available and typically contain fewer calories, often around 70 to 90 calories per slice.

How do calories in cheddar cheese slices impact a balanced diet?
Cheddar cheese provides essential nutrients like protein and calcium, but its calorie and fat content should be considered within daily dietary goals to maintain balance.

Can the calorie content in cheddar cheese slices affect weight management?
Yes, consuming cheddar cheese in moderation can fit into a weight management plan, but excessive intake may contribute to increased calorie consumption and weight gain.
In summary, one slice of cheddar cheese typically contains approximately 110 to 120 calories, though this can vary slightly depending on the brand and thickness of the slice. The calorie content primarily comes from the cheese’s fat and protein composition, making it a nutrient-dense food option. Understanding the caloric value is essential for those monitoring their daily intake, especially within balanced diets or calorie-controlled meal plans.

It is important to consider that cheddar cheese also provides valuable nutrients such as calcium, vitamin A, and protein, which contribute to overall health. However, due to its relatively high saturated fat content, moderation is advised to maintain heart health and prevent excessive calorie consumption. Incorporating cheddar cheese in measured portions can enhance flavor and nutritional value without significantly impacting daily caloric goals.

Ultimately, being aware of the calorie content in a single slice of cheddar cheese enables informed dietary choices. This knowledge supports effective meal planning and helps individuals align their food intake with personal health objectives. For those seeking to manage weight or improve nutrition, careful portion control and consideration of cheese varieties are recommended strategies.

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.