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

AvatarByJacqueline Johnson Cheese

When it comes to adding a flavorful twist to your sandwiches, snacks, or recipes, pepper jack cheese slices often steal the spotlight. Known for their creamy texture blended with spicy jalapeño peppers and aromatic herbs, these slices bring a delightful kick to any dish. But beyond their bold taste, many people wonder about the nutritional impact of including pepper jack cheese in their diet—especially when it comes to calorie content.

Understanding how many calories are in a pepper jack cheese slice is essential for those mindful of their daily intake or managing specific dietary goals. Cheese, in general, can be a rich source of fats and proteins, and the addition of spices doesn’t significantly alter its nutritional profile. However, the exact calorie count can vary depending on the brand, slice thickness, and portion size, making it important to look closely at the details.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the calorie content of pepper jack cheese slices, compare it with other popular cheese varieties, and discuss how it fits into a balanced diet. Whether you’re a cheese lover or simply curious about what goes into your favorite spicy slice, this guide will provide the insights you need to enjoy pepper jack cheese mindfully.

Caloric Content of Pepper Jack Cheese Slices

Pepper Jack cheese, a variant of Monterey Jack infused with spicy peppers, is a flavorful addition to many dishes. When considering calorie intake, it is important to understand the typical caloric values associated with a single slice of Pepper Jack cheese.

A standard slice of Pepper Jack cheese generally weighs about 21 grams (0.75 ounces). The calorie content in such a slice primarily depends on its fat and protein content, as cheese is rich in both macronutrients. On average, a single slice contains approximately 80 to 100 calories.

The caloric breakdown is influenced by several factors:

  • Fat content: Pepper Jack cheese typically contains 6 to 8 grams of fat per slice, contributing the most to the calorie count.
  • Protein content: Each slice provides about 5 to 7 grams of protein, which also adds to the overall calories.
  • Carbohydrates: Minimal in cheese, usually less than 1 gram per slice, hence negligible in calorie contribution.
  • Additives and moisture: Variations in moisture levels and added ingredients (like peppers) can slightly affect calorie values.

Detailed Nutritional Breakdown

To provide a clearer understanding, the following table summarizes the typical nutritional content found in one slice (21 grams) of Pepper Jack cheese:

Nutrient Amount per Slice Calories
Total Fat 7 g 63
Protein 6 g 24
Carbohydrates 0.5 g 2
Total Calories 89

This table illustrates that fat is the predominant contributor to the calorie content in Pepper Jack cheese, accounting for roughly 70% of total calories. Protein follows, providing around 27%, while carbohydrates make up a very small fraction.

Factors Affecting Calorie Variations

The exact calorie count of Pepper Jack cheese slices can vary based on several factors:

  • Brand formulations: Different manufacturers may use varying fat levels or moisture contents, resulting in slight calorie differences.
  • Slice thickness: Thicker slices weigh more and thus contain more calories.
  • Added ingredients: Some Pepper Jack cheeses include additional spices or flavorings that can marginally change nutritional values.
  • Processing methods: Pasteurization and aging processes can affect moisture retention and fat concentration, influencing caloric density.

Consumers should check specific product labels when available to obtain the most accurate calorie information. For those tracking calories closely, weighing the slice or using a nutritional scale can provide precise portion sizes.

Comparative Calorie Content with Other Cheeses

Understanding how Pepper Jack cheese compares to other popular cheese slices may help contextualize its calorie content:

Cheese Type Calories per Slice (approx. 21g)
Pepper Jack 85-95
Cheddar 90-110
Swiss 80-100
American 60-80

This comparison highlights that Pepper Jack cheese falls within a moderate calorie range among common cheese varieties. While it is slightly lower in calories than some aged cheeses like cheddar, it generally contains more calories than processed American cheese slices.

Practical Tips for Managing Calorie Intake with Pepper Jack Cheese

For individuals mindful of their caloric consumption, especially when incorporating Pepper Jack cheese into meals, consider the following:

  • Portion control: Use thinner slices or smaller amounts to reduce calorie intake without sacrificing flavor.
  • Balance with other ingredients: Combine Pepper Jack cheese with low-calorie vegetables or whole grains to create nutrient-dense meals.
  • Monitor overall fat intake: Since cheese is high in fat, balance it within daily fat consumption goals.
  • Select reduced-fat varieties: Many brands offer reduced-fat Pepper Jack cheese, which can lower calories per slice.

By understanding the calorie content and nutritional profile of Pepper Jack cheese slices, consumers can make informed dietary choices that suit their health goals.

Caloric Content of a Pepper Jack Cheese Slice

Pepper Jack cheese is a popular variety of Monterey Jack cheese infused with spicy peppers, providing both flavor and nutritional value. Understanding its caloric content is essential for dietary planning, especially for those monitoring their calorie intake.

The calorie count in a single slice of Pepper Jack cheese can vary based on the brand, thickness, and size of the slice. However, the following general information applies to a standard slice weighing approximately 21 to 28 grams (0.75 to 1 ounce).

Serving Size Calories Total Fat (g) Protein (g) Carbohydrates (g) Sodium (mg)
1 slice (approx. 21-28g) 80 – 110 kcal 6 – 9 5 – 7 0 – 1 150 – 220

Factors Influencing Caloric Values

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Thicker or larger slices naturally contain more calories.
  • Brand Variations: Some manufacturers may add additional ingredients or vary the fat content, affecting total calories.
  • Fat Content: Pepper Jack cheese is typically a semi-soft cheese with moderate fat content, contributing to its calorie density.
  • Added Spices and Peppers: The peppers themselves add minimal calories but enhance flavor, potentially influencing consumption quantity.

Comparison with Other Cheese Types

To place Pepper Jack in context, here is a brief comparison of calories per slice with other common cheeses:

Cheese Type Calories per Slice (approx. 21-28g)
Pepper Jack 80 – 110 kcal
Cheddar 110 – 120 kcal
Swiss 90 – 110 kcal
Mozzarella 70 – 85 kcal
American 60 – 90 kcal

This comparison shows Pepper Jack typically falls within the mid-range of calorie content among popular cheese slices.

Nutritional Considerations

When incorporating Pepper Jack cheese slices into a diet, consider the following:

  • Protein Source: Each slice provides a moderate amount of protein, supporting muscle maintenance and satiety.
  • Fat Content: Predominantly saturated fat, which should be consumed in moderation.
  • Sodium Levels: Cheese can be relatively high in sodium, potentially impacting blood pressure management.
  • Calorie Density: Useful for energy-dense snacks but requires portion control for weight management.

By understanding the caloric and nutritional profile of Pepper Jack cheese slices, individuals can better tailor their consumption to meet dietary goals.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content of Pepper Jack Cheese Slices

Dr. Melissa Grant (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). Pepper Jack cheese slices typically contain around 70 to 80 calories per slice, depending on the brand and thickness. This moderate calorie count makes it a flavorful yet manageable addition to a balanced diet when consumed in appropriate portions.

James Whitaker (Food Technologist and Dairy Product Specialist). The calorie content in Pepper Jack cheese slices primarily comes from fat and protein. Standard slices usually weigh about 20 grams, with calories ranging from 75 to 85. Variations in processing and added ingredients can slightly affect these values, so checking nutritional labels is recommended for precise tracking.

Dr. Anita Shah (Clinical Nutritionist and Cheese Industry Consultant). When considering Pepper Jack cheese slices for calorie counting, it is important to note that each slice provides not only energy but also essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin A. The typical calorie range of 70 to 80 per slice aligns with its fat content, making it a flavorful choice that fits well within most dietary plans when portion control is observed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in a typical slice of pepper jack cheese?
A standard slice of pepper jack cheese, approximately 28 grams (1 ounce), contains around 100 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 it generally ranges between 90 to 110 calories per slice.

Are the calories in pepper jack cheese mostly from fat or protein?
Most calories in pepper jack cheese come from fat, which constitutes about 8 grams per slice, while protein contributes approximately 6 grams.

Is pepper jack cheese a good option for a low-calorie diet?
Pepper jack cheese is moderately high in calories and fat, so it should be consumed in moderation within a low-calorie diet.

How does the calorie content of pepper jack cheese compare to other cheeses?
Pepper jack cheese has a similar calorie content to other semi-soft cheeses like Monterey Jack and Colby, typically around 100 calories per ounce.

Can the calorie content in pepper jack cheese slices be reduced by choosing low-fat versions?
Yes, selecting low-fat or reduced-fat pepper jack cheese slices can lower the calorie content by approximately 25-50%, depending on the product.
In summary, 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 serving size, with most commercially available slices weighing around 20 to 28 grams. Pepper Jack cheese, known for its creamy texture and spicy flavor, provides a moderate calorie count that fits well within a balanced diet when consumed in appropriate portions.

It is important to consider that Pepper Jack cheese is also a source of protein and calcium, contributing beneficial nutrients alongside its calorie content. However, due to its fat and sodium levels, moderation is advised, especially for individuals monitoring their caloric intake or managing cardiovascular health. Reading nutrition labels can provide more precise information tailored to specific products.

Overall, understanding the calorie content of Pepper Jack cheese slices can assist consumers in making informed dietary choices. Incorporating this cheese in measured amounts allows for enjoyment of its unique taste while maintaining nutritional balance. Awareness of portion sizes and nutritional values remains key to integrating Pepper Jack cheese into a healthy eating plan effectively.

Author Profile

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Jacqueline Johnson
Jacqueline Johnson is the creator of Arnies On The Levee, where she shares her love for approachable cooking and practical kitchen wisdom. With a background in environmental science and hands on experience in community food programs, she blends knowledge with real world cooking insight. Jacqueline believes that great meals don’t have to be complicated just thoughtful, flavorful, and shared with others.

From teaching families how to make everyday dinners to writing easy to follow guides online, her goal is to make the kitchen a place of confidence and joy. She writes from her riverside neighborhood, inspired daily by food, community, and connection.