How Many Calories Are in One Slice of Cheddar Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Nutrition & Health

When it comes to making mindful food choices, understanding the calorie content of everyday ingredients is essential. Cheddar cheese, a beloved staple in many kitchens, often finds its way onto sandwiches, salads, and snacks. But have you ever paused to consider how many calories are packed into just one slice of this flavorful cheese? Knowing this information can help you better manage your diet without sacrificing taste.

Cheddar cheese is known for its rich texture and sharp taste, making it a popular addition to countless dishes. 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 for weight management or simply curious about the nutritional profile of your favorite cheese, gaining insight into the calorie count per slice is a valuable step.

In the sections that follow, we’ll explore the calorie content of a single slice of cheddar cheese and discuss factors that influence this number. We’ll also touch on how this fits into a balanced diet and offer tips for enjoying cheese without overdoing it. This knowledge will empower you to make informed choices while still savoring the flavors you love.

Caloric Content of Different Sizes and Types of Cheddar Cheese Slices

The calorie count in a slice of cheddar cheese can vary significantly depending on the thickness, size, and type of cheddar used. Standard pre-packaged cheddar slices usually weigh between 20 to 28 grams, which influences the total calories per slice. Additionally, the fat content and aging process of the cheese affect its caloric density.

Generally, a typical slice of cheddar cheese weighing approximately 28 grams contains about 110 to 120 calories. However, thinner slices, such as deli-cut cheddar, may have fewer calories due to reduced weight, while thicker or artisanal slices can have more.

Factors influencing caloric variation include:

  • Slice Thickness: Thicker slices increase weight and calories.
  • Fat Content: Full-fat cheddar has more calories compared to reduced-fat varieties.
  • Aging: Older, aged cheddar may be denser, slightly increasing calories per gram.
  • Additives: Processed cheddar slices may contain added ingredients that alter caloric content.
Cheddar Cheese Type Slice Weight (grams) Calories per Slice Fat Content (grams) Protein Content (grams)
Standard Full-Fat Cheddar 28 113 9 7
Reduced-Fat Cheddar 28 70 5 8
Deli Thin Cut Cheddar 20 80 6 5
Artisan Aged Cheddar 30 125 10 8

Understanding these variables helps in making informed dietary decisions, especially when tracking caloric intake for weight management or nutritional planning.

Impact of Portion Size on Caloric Intake

Portion control is critical when consuming cheddar cheese, as calories can quickly accumulate with larger servings. Even a slight increase in slice thickness or number of slices can double or triple the calorie intake unintentionally.

For example:

  • One standard slice (28 g): ~113 calories
  • Two slices (56 g): ~226 calories
  • Three slices (84 g): ~339 calories

This scaling highlights how multiple slices contribute to the overall caloric load of a meal. When adding cheddar cheese to sandwiches, snacks, or recipes, it’s important to account for these calories alongside other ingredients.

Practical tips for managing portion size include:

  • Using a kitchen scale to measure cheese accurately.
  • Opting for pre-portioned slices with labeled nutritional information.
  • Choosing reduced-fat or lower-calorie cheese options.
  • Incorporating cheese as a flavor enhancer rather than a main ingredient.

Calorie Comparison Between Cheddar and Other Common Cheese Slices

Cheddar cheese is relatively calorie-dense compared to some other popular cheeses. Below is a comparison of calorie content per standard 28-gram slice of various cheeses:

Cheese Type Calories per 28g Slice Fat Content (grams) Protein Content (grams)
Cheddar (Full-Fat) 113 9 7
Swiss 106 8 8
American Processed 100 7 6
Mozzarella (Part-Skim) 72 4.5 7
Feta 75 6 5

This comparison shows that while cheddar is moderately high in calories, cheeses like mozzarella and feta offer lower calorie alternatives with comparable protein content. Selecting cheese types according to caloric goals can aid in maintaining balanced nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Factors Affecting Calorie Counting Accuracy for Cheese Slices

When estimating calories in cheddar cheese slices, several factors may affect accuracy:

  • Moisture Content: Higher moisture in cheese decreases calories per gram but can vary by brand and type.
  • Manufacturing Differences: Variations in fat content and additives across manufacturers influence caloric values.
  • Measurement Precision: Inaccurate weighing or inconsistent slice sizes lead to estimation errors.
  • Label Variability: Nutritional labels may round values, causing slight discrepancies.

For precise calorie tracking, it is advisable to:

  • Use nutrition labels directly from the cheese packaging.
  • Weigh cheese slices when possible.
  • Consider the specific brand and variety rather than generic averages.
  • Account for any toppings or accompaniments consumed with the cheese.

By understanding these variables, consumers can better manage

Caloric Content of One Slice of Cheddar Cheese

The number of calories in a single slice of cheddar cheese depends primarily on the slice’s weight and thickness. Typically, pre-sliced cheddar cheese available in stores is portioned to about 20 to 28 grams per slice.

Cheddar cheese is a dense source of calories due to its high fat content, with approximately 33-37% of its weight derived from fat. The calorie content in cheese is calculated from its macronutrient composition—fat, protein, and carbohydrates—with fat contributing the most calories per gram.

Portion Size Calories Total Fat (g) Protein (g) Carbohydrates (g)
1 Slice (20 g) 80 kcal 7 g 5 g 0.3 g
1 Slice (28 g) 113 kcal 9 g 7 g 0.4 g

These values are approximations and can vary slightly depending on the brand and specific manufacturing process. Reduced-fat or low-fat cheddar slices will have fewer calories, often ranging between 50 to 70 calories per slice, due to decreased fat content.

Factors Affecting the Calorie Count in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Several factors influence the calorie count in a slice of cheddar cheese:

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Thicker slices naturally contain more cheese and therefore more calories. Always check the weight if provided.
  • Fat Content: Regular cheddar cheese typically contains about 33% fat by weight, but reduced-fat or low-fat versions can have significantly less.
  • Moisture Content: Higher moisture in cheese reduces calorie density slightly, as water adds weight without calories.
  • Brand and Processing: Some brands may add ingredients or use different aging processes that can affect calorie content.

Calorie Comparison with Other Common Cheese Types

To provide perspective on cheddar cheese calories, here is a comparison with other popular cheese varieties per 1-ounce (28-gram) slice:

Cheese Type Calories (per 28 g) Total Fat (g) Protein (g)
Cheddar 113 9 7
Swiss 106 8 8
American 104 8.5 6
Provolone 98 7.5 7
Mozzarella (Whole Milk) 85 6 7

Cheddar cheese is moderately high in calories compared to some other cheeses, primarily due to its fat content. This makes portion control important for those tracking caloric intake.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Dr. Melissa Grant (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist) states, “A standard slice of cheddar cheese typically contains around 110 to 120 calories. This value can vary slightly depending on the thickness of the slice and the fat content of the cheese, but it serves as a reliable estimate for those tracking their caloric intake.”

James Porter (Food Technologist, Dairy Research Institute) explains, “Cheddar cheese is energy-dense due to its fat content, with roughly 9 calories per gram of fat. Since one slice usually weighs about 28 grams, the calorie count aligns closely with this fat-driven energy value, making it important for consumers to consider portion size when including cheese in their diet.”

Dr. Anita Shah (Clinical Nutritionist and Metabolic Health Expert) comments, “When evaluating how many calories are in one slice of cheddar cheese, it’s crucial to consider not only the calories but also the nutritional benefits such as protein and calcium. While the calorie count is moderate, cheddar cheese provides essential nutrients that contribute positively to a balanced diet.”

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 reduced-fat or full-fat.

How does the calorie content of cheddar cheese compare to other cheeses?
Cheddar cheese generally has a moderate calorie count compared to other cheeses, with some softer cheeses like mozzarella having fewer calories per slice and harder cheeses like Parmesan having more.

Can the calorie count in cheddar cheese slices impact a weight loss diet?
Yes, cheddar cheese is calorie-dense and should be consumed in moderation within a weight loss diet to avoid exceeding daily calorie goals.

Are there lower-calorie alternatives to traditional cheddar cheese slices?
Reduced-fat or light cheddar cheese slices offer fewer calories while maintaining similar flavor profiles, making them suitable alternatives for calorie-conscious individuals.

Does the method of slicing cheddar cheese affect its calorie content?
The calorie content depends on the weight of the slice rather than the slicing method; thinner slices contain fewer calories due to lower weight.
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. Cheddar cheese is a calorie-dense food, primarily due to its fat content, which contributes significantly to its energy value. Understanding the caloric content is essential for those managing their dietary intake, particularly in weight management or nutritional planning.

It is important to consider that while cheddar cheese provides a moderate amount of calories per slice, it also offers valuable nutrients such as protein, calcium, and vitamins A and B12. Therefore, incorporating cheddar cheese in moderation can be part of a balanced diet. Being mindful of portion sizes and the frequency of consumption can help individuals maintain their nutritional goals without excessive calorie intake.

Ultimately, awareness of the calorie content in one slice of cheddar cheese enables informed dietary choices. Whether used as a snack, in sandwiches, or as an ingredient in recipes, understanding its nutritional profile supports better health management and contributes to overall dietary balance.

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.