How Many Calories Are in 2 Slices of Pepperjack?

December 6, 2025 •

3 min read

Two slices of pepperjack cheese typically contain between 130 and 160 calories, though the exact amount can vary significantly based on brand and slice thickness. This creamy and spicy cheese is a popular ingredient, so understanding its caloric value is an important step for mindful consumption.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for two slices of pepperjack cheese ranges from 130 to 160 calories. Most of these calories come from fat, with a decent amount of protein and very few carbs. Exact nutritional values are dependent on the manufacturer and the size of the slices.

Key Points

Average Calories: Two slices of pepperjack cheese contain approximately 130 to 160 calories, with variation depending on the brand.
Fat and Protein: The majority of calories come from fat, but it also provides a good source of protein for satiety and muscle health.
Calcium Rich: Pepperjack is an excellent source of calcium, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones.
Portion Control is Key: Due to its calorie density, moderation is essential for fitting pepperjack cheese into a balanced diet and managing weight.
Read Labels: Always check the nutrition label for the specific brand you buy, as slice thickness and manufacturing can impact the final calorie count.
Pair with Fiber: Combining cheese with high-fiber foods like vegetables can enhance the health benefits and promote feelings of fullness.

Understanding the Calorie Count of Pepperjack

The precise number of calories in two slices of pepperjack cheese is not a single, fixed number. It varies based on several factors, most importantly the brand and the standard slice size used by that brand. For example, some brands like Crest Foods have a two-slice serving at 130 calories, while others like Mooyah report 160 calories for the same number of slices.

The standard measurement for cheese nutrition is typically a 1-ounce (28-gram) serving. According to the USDA and various nutrition databases, a 1-ounce serving of pepperjack contains around 100 to 110 calories. Therefore, if two slices equal one ounce, the calorie count would be at the lower end of the range. If the slices are thicker or larger, the calorie count will increase accordingly. This is a crucial detail for anyone tracking their intake, as a slight variation in portion size can add up over time.

Nutritional Breakdown of Pepperjack Cheese

Beyond just calories, it's helpful to look at the complete nutritional profile of pepperjack cheese. The majority of the calories come from fat, as with most full-fat cheeses. It is a dense source of energy, but also offers other important nutrients, especially protein and calcium.

Macronutrient Profile per 1-ounce Serving:

Total Fat: Roughly 8-9 grams, with a significant portion being saturated fat.
Protein: Approximately 7 grams, making it a good source for muscle repair and satiety.
Carbohydrates: Very low, typically less than 1 gram per serving.

Key Vitamins and Minerals:

Calcium: An excellent source, providing about 15-20% of your daily recommended intake per ounce. Essential for bone health.
Sodium: The sodium content is moderate, averaging around 170-190mg per ounce. This should be considered for those on a sodium-restricted diet.

Comparison with Other Cheeses

To put pepperjack's calorie and nutritional content into perspective, a comparison with other common cheese types is useful. Portion sizes can differ, so the values below are normalized to a standard 1-ounce (28g) serving where possible to allow for a clearer comparison of calorie density.


Cheese Type	Calories (per 1 oz)	Saturated Fat (g)	Protein (g)	Sodium (mg)	Notes
Pepperjack	~100-110	~5	~7	~170-190	Spicy variant of Monterey Jack.
Cheddar	~114	~5	~7	~185	Similar nutrition to pepperjack, but without the spice.
Provolone	~95-100	~6	~7	~220	Slightly lower in calories than pepperjack but often higher in sodium.
Fresh Mozzarella	~70	~4	~4	~50-100	A significantly lower-calorie and lower-sodium option.
Feta	~75	~4	~4	~316	Lower calorie but very high in sodium.

Health Considerations and Moderation

While cheese offers benefits like protein and calcium, its high calorie and saturated fat content mean it should be enjoyed in moderation, especially for those concerned with weight management or cardiovascular health. The key is mindful portion control rather than complete avoidance. Pairing cheese with high-fiber foods like vegetables or whole grains can increase satiety and make it a more balanced part of a meal.

Tips for Managing Cheese Intake

Portion Wisely: Stick to a single slice or a small cube (around 1 ounce) per serving to keep calories in check.
Enhance, Don't Overwhelm: Use cheese to add flavor to a dish rather than being the main component. A sprinkle on a salad is often enough.
Explore Lighter Options: For those seeking significantly lower-calorie alternatives, fresh mozzarella or cottage cheese are excellent choices.
Check the Label: Always read the nutrition label on the specific brand you purchase. Some brands offer reduced-fat versions of pepperjack with lower calorie counts.
Use it for Protein: The protein content in cheese helps you feel full, which can help in reducing overall calorie intake throughout the day.

Conclusion

The calorie count for two slices of pepperjack cheese can range, but typically falls between 130 and 160 calories. While a source of protein and essential calcium, it is also calorie-dense due to its fat content. By being mindful of portion sizes and incorporating it into a balanced diet, pepperjack can be a delicious and beneficial addition to your meals. Remember to always check the specific brand's nutritional information for the most accurate details. Mindful eating is the key to enjoying cheese without derailing your health goals. For further information on general nutrition, Harvard's T.H. Chan School of Public Health offers excellent resources on various food topics, including cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, relative to other dairy products, pepperjack is a calorie-dense food due to its high fat content. A small portion packs a significant number of calories, making moderation important for weight management.

You can include pepperjack cheese in a weight loss diet by practicing portion control. Stick to small servings to enjoy the flavor without over-consuming calories.

Pepperjack and cheddar cheese have very similar calorie and fat profiles. A 1-ounce serving of cheddar has about 114 calories, while pepperjack is around 100-110 calories per ounce.

The standard serving size for most cheeses, including pepperjack, is 1 ounce (28 grams). This is often equivalent to one slice or two small cubes.

To reduce cheese calories, you can use less of it as a flavor enhancer, choose lower-fat varieties like fresh mozzarella or cottage cheese, and pair it with fiber-rich foods to increase satiety.

Over half the fat in pepperjack is saturated fat. While historically viewed negatively, some studies suggest that saturated fat from dairy might have different effects than from other sources, but overall intake should still be mindful.

No, cooking cheese does not alter its calorie count. It may change its texture and melt, but the total calories from fat, protein, and carbohydrates remain the same.