Bushra Griffith
Cheese sticks and dip are a popular snack, but how many calories do they contain? Calorie counts vary depending on the type of cheese stick and dip. For example, two mozzarella sticks made with low-fat string cheese and wonton wrappers are 163 calories, while two deep-fried sticks can be up to 560 calories. Similarly, the calorie count of cheese dip ranges from 42 calories per 2 tablespoons to 614 calories per cup. This variation in calorie content is due to different ingredients and cooking methods.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories in 2 tablespoons of cheese dip (Clancy's) | 90 |
| Calories in 2 tablespoons of Mexican cheese dip | 42 |
| Calories in 1 cup of cheese dip | 614 |
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What You'll Learn
Mozzarella sticks: 163 calories per serving (2 sticks)
Mozzarella sticks are a delicious snack, but it's important to be mindful of their calorie content. A serving of two mozzarella sticks contains approximately 163 calories. This calorie count may vary depending on the specific ingredients and cooking methods used. For example, frying the mozzarella sticks in oil can increase the calorie count significantly.
When creating your own mozzarella sticks, there are ways to reduce the calorie content while still enjoying a tasty treat. One way is to opt for low-fat string cheese as the main ingredient. String cheese is a convenient choice as it is already portioned into individual sticks, making it easy to control your serving size.
The wrapping used for mozzarella sticks can also impact the calorie count. Wonton wrappers, for instance, offer a lighter alternative to traditional breading. By using wonton wrappers and low-fat string cheese, you can create crispy and satisfying mozzarella sticks with a lower calorie count.
Cooking methods play a crucial role in the calorie content of mozzarella sticks. Air frying has emerged as a popular and healthier alternative to deep frying. By air frying your mozzarella sticks, you can reduce the amount of oil absorbed, resulting in a lighter and less calorific snack.
It's worth noting that while calorie count is important, the overall nutritional value of a snack is also a key consideration. Mozzarella sticks can provide a good source of protein, with each serving contributing 11 grams of protein. So, while enjoying mozzarella sticks in moderation, you can also benefit from the protein boost they offer.
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Two-ingredient recipe: Crispy, melty, and healthy
Ingredients
- 2 low-fat string cheese, cut in half (for 4 sticks)
- 4 wonton wrappers
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tbsp water (for sealing)
- Cooking spray
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- Set up your breading station with three bowls. In the first bowl, whisk together flour and garlic salt. In the second bowl, beat an egg. Add breadcrumbs to the third bowl.
- Cut the block of mozzarella into sticks just under ½” thick by 3” long. You should end up with about 4 cheese sticks.
- Coat the cheese sticks in breading by dipping them first in the flour, then in the egg, and then repeat the process. Finally, roll the sticks in the breadcrumbs to ensure they are evenly coated on all sides.
- Lightly spray the cheese sticks with cooking spray.
- Air fry at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and serve warm with marinara sauce.
Nutrition Facts
This healthy alternative to traditional mozzarella sticks has only 163 calories and 11g of protein per serving (2 sticks). By using low-fat string cheese and wonton wrappers, you can enjoy the delicious taste of crispy, melty cheese sticks without compromising your health.
Grilled cheese sticks made with mozzarella and wonton wrappers are a healthier alternative to deep-fried cheese sticks. They are lower in calories and fat while still providing a good amount of protein. This recipe is perfect for those who want to satisfy their cravings without compromising their health.
Grilled cheese sticks can be made even healthier by baking them in the oven instead of frying. This further reduces the calorie count and the amount of fat in each stick. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese that have lower fat content or are made with plant-based milk.
Customization
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese and seasonings to create your own unique version of this recipe. For a lighter option, you can bake the cheese sticks in the oven instead of frying them. You can also serve them with a variety of dips, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy pepper jack queso. Get creative and enjoy your crispy, melty, and healthy cheese sticks!
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Mexican cheese dip: 42 calories per 2 tablespoons
Mexican cheese dip is a tasty, creamy, savoury treat, often served at parties and gatherings. It is a versatile dip, pairing well with tortilla chips, vegetables, or drizzled over nachos.
However, it is also a calorie-dense food. According to the USDA, two tablespoons (30 grams) of Mexican cheese dip contain 42 calories. While this may not seem like a large number, it is important to consider what the dip is served with. For example, when paired with tortilla chips, the calorie count increases significantly. One ounce of tortilla chips contains 141 calories, so the combination of the two can be high in calories.
Like most dairy products, Mexican cheese dip is high in fat. A 2-tablespoon serving contains almost 3 grams of fat. It is also a source of protein, providing 1 gram of protein per 2 tablespoons.
When compared to other cheese dips, Mexican cheese dip falls on the lower end of the calorie spectrum. For example, two tablespoons of Clancy's cheese dip contain 90 calories.
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High-calorie snack: One cup contains 614 calories
Cheese dip is a delicious snack, but it's important to be aware of its calorie content. One cup of cheese dip, approximately 200 grams, contains a substantial 614 calories. This is certainly a high-calorie snack, and when paired with tortilla chips, the calorie count can quickly increase.
The calorie density of cheese dip is due to its high fat content. A single cup contains 46.2 grams of fat, which equates to 72% fat. This is significantly higher than the other macronutrients, with only 17.7 grams of carbohydrates (18%) and 32.2 grams of protein (9%).
While cheese dip is a tasty treat and offers some nutritional benefits in the form of calcium and protein, it's important to consume it in moderation due to its high-calorie content. Two tablespoons of cheese dip contain approximately 42 to 90 calories, depending on the brand, which is a more manageable serving size.
It's worth noting that cheese dip is a versatile snack and can be enjoyed with a variety of dippers. Opting for vegetables or other lower-calorie options instead of tortilla chips can help reduce the overall calorie intake. Additionally, there are recipes for lighter versions of cheese dip that can satisfy cravings while being more calorie-conscious.
In conclusion, while cheese dip is a flavorful and indulgent snack, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes due to its high-calorie content. One cup contains a significant 614 calories, so enjoying it in moderation or exploring lower-calorie alternatives can be a healthier approach.
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Low-calorie option: Air-fried, not deep-fried
Cheese dips and sticks are often considered indulgent, high-calorie foods. However, there are ways to enjoy these treats while keeping the calorie count low. One way to do this is to opt for air-frying instead of deep-frying. Air fryers use significantly less oil than traditional deep-frying methods, reducing the overall calorie count of your cheese sticks.
A TikTok user shares a recipe for air-fried mozzarella sticks that are not only crispy and melty but also lighter on the calories. The recipe calls for low-fat string cheese, wonton wrappers, and Italian seasoning. By using low-fat cheese and minimal oil, this recipe reduces the calorie count without sacrificing taste.
Another TikTok user shares a similar recipe for air-fried mozzarella sticks with a detailed breading process. Their recipe includes egg whites, flour, and bread crumbs, which are used to create a crispy exterior without the need for deep-frying. Air-frying this type of breaded cheese stick ensures a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the interior melty and delicious.
Air-frying is a healthier alternative to deep-frying, as it reduces the amount of oil absorbed by the food. By using an air fryer, you can still enjoy the taste and texture of fried foods like cheese sticks without the excessive calories and fat associated with deep-frying. This cooking method is a great option for those watching their weight or looking for lighter snack options.
In addition to air-frying, you can also explore ingredient swaps to further reduce the calorie count of your cheese sticks. For example, using low-fat cheese or alternative wrappers can make a significant difference in the overall calorie content. With these low-calorie options, you can indulge in the cheesy goodness without derailing your diet or compromising on taste.
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Frequently asked questions
There are approximately 614 calories in a cup of cheese dip.
Two tablespoons of cheese dip contain 42 calories according to the USDA, or 90 calories according to another source.
Mexican cheese dips are calorie-dense and high in fat, but they do provide a small amount of protein and are low in carbohydrates.
Cheese dip is made primarily from melted cheese, often blended with ingredients like jalapeños, sour cream, and spices.
Cheese dip pairs well with tortilla chips, vegetables, or nachos.
