How Many Calories Are in a Slice of Pepper Jack Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Nutrition & Health

When it comes to adding a flavorful twist to your sandwiches, snacks, or recipes, Pepper Jack cheese slices are a popular choice. Known for their creamy texture combined with a spicy kick from jalapeño peppers, these cheese slices offer more than just taste—they also contribute to your daily nutritional intake. Understanding the calorie content in a Pepper Jack cheese slice can help you make informed decisions about portion sizes and how it fits into your overall diet.

Cheese, in general, is a nutrient-dense food that provides protein, calcium, and fats, but it can also be calorie-rich. Pepper Jack cheese, with its unique blend of flavors, is no exception. Whether you’re watching your calorie intake, managing weight, or simply curious about what you’re consuming, knowing the calorie count in a typical slice is essential. This knowledge allows you to enjoy your favorite cheese without compromising your health goals.

In the sections ahead, we’ll explore the calorie content of Pepper Jack cheese slices, compare it with other cheeses, and offer insights on how to incorporate it wisely into your meals. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast or someone mindful of nutrition, this guide will help you balance flavor and health effortlessly.

Caloric Content of Pepper Jack Cheese Slice

Pepper Jack cheese is a popular variety of Monterey Jack cheese infused with spicy peppers and herbs, which adds flavor without significantly altering its caloric content compared to traditional cheeses. The number of calories in a single slice of Pepper Jack cheese can vary depending on the brand, thickness, and size of the slice, but typical nutritional information can help provide an accurate estimate.

On average, a standard slice of Pepper Jack cheese weighing approximately 21 grams contains about 80 calories. This calorie count is primarily derived from the cheese’s fat and protein content, with fats being the most calorie-dense macronutrient present.

Key Nutritional Components Contributing to Calories

  • Fat: Pepper Jack cheese usually contains around 6 to 7 grams of fat per slice. Since fat contains 9 calories per gram, it is the largest contributor to the total caloric content.
  • Protein: Each slice typically has about 5 grams of protein, contributing 4 calories per gram.
  • Carbohydrates: Cheese generally contains a very low amount of carbohydrates, usually less than 1 gram per slice, contributing minimally to calorie count.

Typical Caloric Breakdown of a Pepper Jack Cheese Slice

Nutrient Amount per Slice (21g) Calories per Gram Total Calories
Fat 7 g 9 63
Protein 5 g 4 20
Carbohydrates 0.5 g 4 2
Total Calories ~85

Variability in Caloric Content

Several factors can influence the calorie count in Pepper Jack cheese slices:

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Thicker slices or larger portion sizes naturally contain more calories.
  • Brand Formulation: Different manufacturers may use varying fat contents or additional ingredients, slightly altering calories.
  • Reduced-Fat or Low-Fat Versions: Some brands offer reduced-fat Pepper Jack cheese slices, which can have 25-50% fewer calories than regular versions.

Additional Nutritional Considerations

Pepper Jack cheese not only provides calories but also offers essential nutrients:

  • Calcium: Important for bone health, typically around 150-200 mg per slice.
  • Sodium: Can be moderately high, often ranging from 150 to 250 mg per slice, due to the cheese-making process and added spices.
  • Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin A and B vitamins.

These nutritional values make Pepper Jack cheese a flavorful option for those seeking to balance taste with moderate caloric intake.

Tips for Calorie-Conscious Consumption

  • Opt for pre-portioned slices to better control calorie intake.
  • Consider using Pepper Jack cheese as a flavor enhancer rather than the primary ingredient.
  • Pair with fresh vegetables or whole grain products to increase volume and satiety without excess calories.

By understanding the caloric breakdown and nutritional profile of Pepper Jack cheese slices, individuals can make informed choices aligned with their dietary goals.

Caloric Content of a Pepper Jack Cheese Slice

Pepper Jack cheese is a popular variety known for its creamy texture combined with spicy jalapeño peppers. Understanding its caloric content is essential for those managing their dietary intake or aiming to balance macronutrients.

The calorie count of a Pepper Jack cheese slice depends on factors such as slice thickness, brand, and exact formulation. However, standard nutritional data provides a reliable baseline for estimation.

Serving Size Calories Total Fat (g) Protein (g) Carbohydrates (g)
1 slice (21 grams) 80-90 kcal 7-8 5-6 0-1

Factors Influencing Caloric Variation

  • Slice Thickness: Thicker slices contain more cheese and thus more calories.
  • Brand Differences: Some brands use different milk fat percentages, affecting calorie density.
  • Additives: Some Pepper Jack varieties include additional ingredients that may slightly alter caloric content.

Nutritional Breakdown and Considerations

  • Fat: The majority of calories come from fat, particularly saturated fat, which contributes to the creamy mouthfeel.
  • Protein: Provides a moderate amount of protein, supporting muscle repair and satiety.
  • Carbohydrates: Generally negligible, as cheese contains minimal carbs.
  • Sodium: Pepper Jack cheese often contains higher sodium levels due to added spices and curing processes.

Practical Tips for Calorie Management

  • Opt for thinly sliced portions if calorie control is a priority.
  • Check nutrition labels on different brands to compare caloric values.
  • Incorporate Pepper Jack cheese in moderation within a balanced diet to enjoy flavor without excessive calorie intake.

By understanding the typical caloric range and nutritional profile of a Pepper Jack cheese slice, consumers can make informed dietary choices that align with their health goals.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Pepper Jack Cheese Slices

Dr. Emily Carter (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). Pepper Jack cheese slices typically contain around 70 to 100 calories per slice, depending on the brand and thickness. This moderate calorie count makes it a flavorful option for those monitoring their intake while still enjoying cheese in sandwiches or snacks.

Michael Thompson (Food Technologist, Dairy Products Specialist). The calorie content in a Pepper Jack cheese slice is influenced by its fat content and moisture level. Generally, a standard slice weighing about 21 grams contains approximately 80 calories, primarily from fats and proteins inherent in the cheese-making process.

Susan Lee (Clinical Nutritionist and Cheese Enthusiast). When evaluating Pepper Jack cheese slices for calorie content, it is important to consider portion size and additives such as peppers or spices. On average, a single slice provides about 85 calories, making it a reasonable choice for those seeking flavorful cheese without excessive caloric load.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in a typical slice of Pepper Jack cheese?
A standard slice of Pepper Jack cheese, weighing approximately 28 grams (1 ounce), contains about 100 to 110 calories.

Does the calorie content vary between different brands of Pepper Jack cheese?
Yes, calorie content can vary slightly depending on the brand and specific recipe, but most slices range between 90 and 120 calories.

Are the calories in Pepper Jack cheese primarily from fat or protein?
The majority of calories in Pepper Jack cheese come from fat, with a moderate amount contributed by protein.

How does the calorie count of Pepper Jack cheese compare to other cheeses?
Pepper Jack cheese has a similar calorie count to other semi-soft cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby, typically ranging from 90 to 120 calories per slice.

Can Pepper Jack cheese be part of a calorie-controlled diet?
Yes, Pepper Jack cheese can be included in a calorie-controlled diet when consumed in moderation and balanced with other nutrient-dense foods.

Does the addition of peppers affect the calorie content of Pepper Jack cheese?
The peppers added to Pepper Jack cheese contribute negligible calories, so they do not significantly impact the overall calorie content.
a typical slice of Pepper Jack cheese contains approximately 70 to 100 calories, depending on the brand and thickness of the slice. This calorie range is influenced by the cheese’s fat content and portion size, making it important for consumers to check nutritional labels for precise information. Pepper Jack cheese offers a flavorful option with a moderate calorie count, suitable for those monitoring their caloric intake while enjoying a spicy, creamy cheese variety.

It is also valuable to consider that Pepper Jack cheese provides essential nutrients such as protein and calcium, which contribute to a balanced diet. However, due to its fat and sodium content, moderation is recommended, especially for individuals managing heart health or weight. Incorporating Pepper Jack cheese in controlled portions can enhance meals without significantly impacting daily caloric goals.

Overall, understanding the calorie content and nutritional profile of Pepper Jack cheese slices enables informed dietary choices. By balancing enjoyment with nutritional awareness, consumers can effectively include this cheese in their meals while maintaining their health objectives.

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.