
Pizza is a beloved dish worldwide, but it can be difficult to determine the exact calorie count of each slice due to variations in crust density, toppings, and portion sizes. One of the most significant factors influencing the calorie content of pizza is the cheese, with a single cup of mozzarella containing 316 calories. When considering a slice of pizza, the amount of cheese can vary, but it typically falls between a quarter and a half cup. For those watching their calorie intake, it's important to note that cheese is a high-calorie topping, and opting for vegetables instead can be a healthier choice.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories in cheese on pizza | 79-272 calories per slice, depending on the type of cheese and size of pizza |
| Calories in mozzarella cheese | 316 calories per cup |
| Calories in provolone cheese | 886 calories for 10 ounces on a 15" pizza |
| Calories in other toppings | Vegetables add fewer calories and more nutrients than cheese or fatty meats |
| Calories in crust | Whole wheat, whole grain, or cauliflower crusts are lower-calorie options than original or deep-dish crusts |
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What You'll Learn

Calories depend on crust density and toppings
The calorie content of pizza depends on a variety of factors, including crust density and toppings. A thicker crust will generally contain more calories, while a thinner, lighter crust will have fewer. Similarly, the type of toppings you choose can significantly impact the calorie count of your pizza.
Cheese is a common topping on pizza, and it can add a significant number of calories. For example, a cup of mozzarella cheese contains 316 calories, while a quarter cup contains 79 calories. Other high-calorie toppings include pepperoni, Alfredo sauce, sausage, and extra cheese. If you're watching your calorie intake, it's best to avoid or limit these toppings.
On the other hand, vegetables are a great way to add nutrients to your pizza without adding too many calories. Making a homemade pizza with lots of veggies and a whole wheat or whole grain crust is a healthier option. You can also control the portion size more effectively when you make your own pizza, which can help with calorie control.
The brand and cooking method of your pizza can also impact the calorie count. Commercially-produced pizzas tend to contain more additives, such as salt, which can increase the calorie content. Frying with high amounts of oil or adding creamy products can also contribute to a higher calorie count.
Overall, the calorie content of pizza can vary widely depending on the crust density, toppings, brand, and cooking method. If you're conscious about your calorie intake, it's important to be mindful of these factors and make choices that align with your nutritional goals.
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A 14 pizza slice with cheese has 272 calories
The calorie content of pizza depends on various factors, including crust density, toppings, cooking method, ingredients, and level of processing. A 14-inch pizza slice with cheese as a topping and an original crust contains 272 calories. This calorie count may vary depending on the type of cheese and the thickness of the crust.
Cheese is considered a high-calorie topping, and its calorie content can vary depending on the type of cheese used. For example, a cup of mozzarella cheese contains approximately 316 calories, while a quarter cup contains 79 calories. Therefore, a pizza slice with mozzarella cheese may contain between 79 and 158 calories, depending on the amount of cheese used.
To reduce the calorie intake from pizza, one can consider opting for vegetable toppings instead of high-calorie toppings such as extra cheese, pepperoni, Alfredo sauce, or sausage. Choosing a whole wheat, whole grain, or cauliflower crust can also help lower the calorie count. Additionally, portion control is essential when trying to manage calorie intake. Ordering a personal-sized pizza or sticking to a single slice accompanied by a salad or vegetables can be a healthier option.
Preparing homemade pizza allows for better control over ingredients and portion sizes, enabling individuals to create healthier alternatives. Homemade pizza dough made with whole wheat or cauliflower can be a healthier option than commercially produced pizza, which tends to contain more additives, such as salt. Additionally, homemade pizza sauce can be healthier and taste better than store-bought sauce, as it contains less added sugar.
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Mozzarella cup (316 calories) vs 1/4 cup (79 calories)
Cheese is a common topping on pizza, and it is well-known that it is relatively high in calories. The calorie count of cheese on pizza depends on the type of cheese and the quantity used. Mozzarella is a popular variety used on pizzas, and the calorie count varies with the amount consumed.
A cup of shredded mozzarella cheese contains approximately 316 calories. This quantity of cheese may be used on a large pizza, contributing significantly to the overall calorie count. However, when this quantity is reduced to a quarter cup, or 79 calories worth of mozzarella, the calorie count decreases substantially.
A quarter cup of shredded mozzarella, with its 79 calories, can be a more suitable option for those conscious of their calorie intake. This reduced amount still allows for the flavour and texture that cheese adds to a pizza without contributing as significantly to the overall calorie count. This is especially beneficial for those who enjoy cheese but prefer a lower-calorie pizza option.
The calorie difference between a cup (316 calories) and a quarter cup (79 calories) of mozzarella cheese is substantial, almost a fourfold difference. This highlights how making small adjustments to the quantity of cheese can result in a more significant impact on the overall calorie intake. This knowledge can empower individuals to make informed choices, especially when ordering or creating pizzas, to align with their dietary preferences and goals.
In summary, the calorie count of mozzarella cheese on a pizza can vary depending on the quantity used. Opting for a quarter cup of mozzarella, which has 79 calories, can be a more calorie-conscious choice compared to using a full cup with 316 calories. This simple adjustment can make a pizza a more nutritious option without sacrificing the taste and enjoyment of cheese.
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Homemade pizza saves calories
Pizza is a beloved dish worldwide, but it can be high in calories, especially when topped with cheese or fatty meats. The calorie content of pizza varies depending on the crust density, toppings, brand, and cooking method. For those watching their calorie intake, ordering pizza from restaurants can be challenging due to the lack of detailed nutritional information.
A slice of cheese pizza from a restaurant can contain approximately 272 calories, depending on the size and thickness of the slice. Cheese is relatively high in calories, with a cup of mozzarella containing 316 calories. As such, opting for pizzas with cheese toppings can significantly increase the overall calorie count.
Making homemade pizza is a great way to save calories. By preparing pizza at home, you have better control over the ingredients and their portions. For example, you can use whole wheat or cauliflower crusts, which are healthier alternatives to traditional dough. Additionally, you can load up on vegetable toppings, adding valuable nutrients to each slice without increasing the calorie count significantly.
When making homemade pizza, it is essential to be mindful of high-calorie toppings, such as extra cheese, pepperoni, sausage, or Alfredo sauce. These toppings can quickly increase the calorie content of your pizza. Instead, opt for lean meats like chicken or turkey bacon, which provide protein without the excess calories.
Preparing homemade pizza allows you to make healthier choices without sacrificing taste. You can experiment with different combinations of ingredients and toppings to create delicious and nutritious pizzas that fit within your desired calorie intake. So, the next time you crave pizza, consider rolling up your sleeves and making your own at home to save calories and customize your perfect pie.
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High-calorie toppings include pepperoni and extra cheese
The calorie content of pizza depends on various factors, including crust density and toppings. A slice of pizza with cheese topping and an original crust contains 272 calories. Cheese is relatively high in calories, with one cup of mozzarella containing 316 calories. Therefore, a pizza with extra cheese will be higher in calories.
Pepperoni is also a high-calorie topping. It is a fatty meat, and fatty meats tend to be high in calories. In addition, processed meats like pepperoni are often high in sodium and other additives, which can further increase the calorie count.
When trying to reduce calorie intake, it is advisable to avoid these high-calorie toppings. Instead, opt for vegetable toppings, which can add valuable nutrients to each slice while keeping the calorie count low. Whole wheat or whole-grain crusts are also recommended for a healthier pizza option.
Those who enjoy the taste of cheese and pepperoni but want to reduce their calorie intake can try substituting these toppings with lower-calorie alternatives. For example, using a smaller amount of cheese or choosing a lower-calorie cheese variety can help reduce calories without sacrificing taste completely. Similarly, lean meats like chicken or turkey bacon can be used as substitutes for pepperoni to create a lower-calorie pizza with a similar flavor profile.
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Frequently asked questions
There are approximately 272 calories in a slice of 14" pizza with cheese and an original crust.
Yes, different cheeses have different calorie counts. For example, a cup of mozzarella has 316 calories, while provolone cheese has 886 calories on a 15" large pizza.
Yes, opting for a whole wheat or whole grain crust and adding vegetable toppings can help reduce the overall calorie count of a pizza.
High-calorie pizza toppings to avoid if aiming for a lower-calorie pizza include pepperoni, Alfredo sauce, sausage, and extra cheese.

























