How Many Calories Are in a 20 Inch Pizza? The Definitive Guide

October 24, 2025 •

4 min read

A single slice from a 20-inch cheese pizza can contain upwards of 640 calories, but this is just one piece of the pie. The total number of calories in a 20-inch pizza is highly variable and depends on many factors, including the crust, cheese, and toppings.

Quick Summary

The total calories in a 20-inch pizza can range from approximately 4,000 to over 7,000 calories, heavily influenced by the crust type and choice of toppings.

Key Points

Extreme Variability: The total calories in a 20-inch pizza can range from 4,000 to well over 7,000, depending on the ingredients and crust thickness.
Surface Area Multiplier: A 20-inch pizza contains over twice the surface area, and thus twice the calories, of a 14-inch pizza.
Toppings Influence: High-fat meat toppings significantly increase the calorie count, while vegetable toppings are a lower-calorie alternative.
Crust is Crucial: Thick, deep-dish crusts add many more calories than thinner crust options.
Portion Control is Key: Due to the high calorie density per slice (e.g., 640-710+), managing your portion size is the most effective strategy for consumption.
Calorie Saving Tips: Opting for a thin crust, more vegetables, and less cheese can help reduce the overall calorie impact.

Understanding the Scale of a 20-Inch Pizza

When considering how many calories are in a 20 inch pizza, it is essential to first appreciate its sheer size. Many people underestimate how much larger a 20-inch pizza is compared to a standard 14-inch large pizza. The area of a circle is calculated using the formula A = πr², where 'r' is the radius (half the diameter). A 14-inch pizza has a radius of 7 inches, giving it an area of approximately 154 square inches. In contrast, a 20-inch pizza has a 10-inch radius, resulting in a surface area of about 314 square inches. This means a 20-inch pizza has more than double the surface area of a 14-inch pizza, so it contains more than double the calories and ingredients. This mathematical reality is a key reason for the surprisingly high total calorie count.

Calorie Drivers: Crust, Cheese, and Toppings

The bulk of a pizza's calories comes from three primary components: the crust, the cheese, and the toppings. Each of these elements can significantly alter the final nutritional profile.

The Impact of Crust Type

The crust is the foundation of the pizza and a major calorie contributor. Thin crusts naturally contain fewer calories per slice than thick, deep-dish, or double-dough variations. For instance, nutrition data from Rosati's Chicago Pizza shows that a 20-inch thin crust cheese pizza base has a much lower calorie count per piece than its double-dough equivalent. A thicker crust means more dough, more carbs, and consequently, more calories.

The Role of Cheese

Cheese is a dense source of calories and fat. While mozzarella is standard, the amount and type of cheese used are crucial. A pizza piled high with extra mozzarella, cheddar, or richer cheeses will have a higher calorie count than one with a standard or light cheese portion. Some high-end pizzas might also use richer, high-fat cheeses, further boosting the calorie total.

The Topping Calorie Hierarchy

Toppings have the most dramatic effect on a pizza's final calorie count. They can be broadly categorized into meat-based and vegetable-based, with significant differences in caloric density.

High-Calorie Toppings (Typically Meat-Based):

Pepperoni: A 20-inch pepperoni pizza slice from Slice House clocks in at 710 calories. The total fat and saturated fat content is very high.
Sausage: Adds significant calories and fat. Rosati's data shows a 20-inch pizza with ground beef topping is extremely high in calories.
Bacon: Similar to other processed meats, bacon strips contribute substantial calories and fat to each bite.
Extra Cheese: As mentioned, extra cheese is a simple way to increase calories significantly.

Lower-Calorie Toppings (Typically Vegetable-Based):

Mushrooms: Very low in calories.
Peppers (green, red, jalapeño): Add flavor and nutrients with minimal calories.
Onions: Another low-calorie vegetable option.
Spinach: A healthy and low-calorie addition.

A Comparison of 20-Inch Pizza Calories

The following table provides estimated total calorie counts for a 20-inch pizza, assuming it is cut into 10 large slices. These are estimates based on available nutrition data for specific brand pizzas.


Pizza Type	Calories Per Slice (Approx.)	Total Pizza Calories (10 Slices)
20" Thin Crust Cheese	450-500	4,500-5,000
20" Standard Cheese	640	6,400
20" Standard Pepperoni	710	7,100
20" Deep Dish Cheese	700-800+	7,000-8,000+
20" Loaded Meat Pizza	800-900+	8,000-9,000+

It is important to note that these are estimates. The final calorie count will depend heavily on the specific recipe, including the crust thickness, amount of sauce, and generousness of toppings.

Healthier Pizza Choices for the Calorie-Conscious

For those watching their calorie intake, there are several strategies to enjoy pizza without overdoing it. A 20-inch pizza can be a shared meal, with portion control being the key. Here are some actionable tips:

Order Thin Crust: This is the most effective way to reduce the calorie base of your pizza.
Load Up on Veggies: Vegetable toppings add flavor, fiber, and nutrients without the high calorie cost of meat. Go for mushrooms, onions, and peppers.
Go Light on the Cheese: Requesting less cheese can significantly cut down on calories and fat.
Choose Leaner Meats: If you must have meat, opt for leaner options like chicken over pepperoni or sausage.
Blot the Oil: Using a napkin to blot excess oil from the top of the pizza can remove a surprising number of calories, especially from greasy toppings like pepperoni.
Watch Your Portion: Stick to one or two slices rather than mindlessly eating multiple pieces. A single slice of a 20-inch pizza can be a meal in itself.

Conclusion

The total number of calories in a 20-inch pizza is substantial and can easily exceed a person's entire daily recommended calorie intake. With estimates ranging from 4,000 to over 7,000 calories, the final count is heavily dependent on key variables: crust type, cheese quantity, and topping selections. While a 20-inch pizza is a formidable meal, understanding its calorie density allows for more mindful consumption, whether by sharing with a large group or making smarter topping choices. Ultimately, a balanced diet and proper portion control are the keys to enjoying this classic dish guilt-free.

For more detailed nutritional information on pizza ingredients, you can explore resources like Nutritionix.

Frequently Asked Questions

A single slice of a 20-inch cheese pizza can have around 640 calories, while a pepperoni slice can be around 710 calories. The calorie count per slice depends on how many slices the pizza is cut into, the crust thickness, and the toppings.

A standard 20-inch pizza can easily contain 6,000 to 7,000 calories, assuming a normal cheese and topping load. For deep-dish or fully-loaded meat pizzas, the total calorie count can be even higher.

Thicker crusts, such as deep-dish or double-dough, use more flour and oil, adding significantly more calories than a thinner crust. A thin crust is the lowest-calorie option.

Yes, a 20-inch pizza has a surface area four times larger than a 10-inch pizza, as area increases with the square of the radius. Therefore, a 20-inch pizza contains significantly more than double the calories of a 10-inch pie.

Meat toppings like pepperoni, sausage, and bacon are the most calorie-dense toppings. Extra cheese is another major contributor to a higher calorie total.

To reduce calories, choose a thin crust, opt for a light layer of cheese, and pile on low-calorie vegetable toppings such as mushrooms, onions, peppers, and spinach.

The most important step is portion control, limiting yourself to one or two slices. You can also blot the pizza to remove excess oil and opt for healthier toppings and a thinner crust.