How many calories are in a Papa John's large cheese pizza?

According to the official Papa John's nutritional information, a large original crust cheese pizza, when cut into eight slices, contains approximately 290 calories per slice. This total can vary slightly based on different crust options and toppings, which significantly influence the overall calorie count of the pizza.

Quick Summary

The total calorie count for a large cheese pizza from Papa John's is over 2,300 calories, with one slice of the original crust containing around 290 calories. Calorie content is impacted by crust choice and slice size. The article details the nutritional breakdown and offers a comparison of different crust types.

Key Points

• Total Calories: A large original crust cheese pizza from Papa John's contains approximately 2,320 calories in total, based on eight slices.

• Per Slice: Each slice of a large original crust cheese pizza has about 290 calories.

• Crust Matters: The calorie count varies by crust type, with a thin crust option having fewer calories per slice (~210 kcal) than the original (~290 kcal) or Epic Stuffed Crust (~360 kcal).

• Key Macronutrients: One slice of the large original crust provides about 10g of fat, 38g of carbs, and 11g of protein.

• Sodium Content: A single slice contains approximately 710mg of sodium, which is about 31% of the daily value.

• Toppings and Sauces Impact Calories: Adding toppings and dipping sauces, like the special garlic sauce, will increase the total caloric and fat content significantly.

• Portion Control is Key: Limiting the number of slices is the most effective way to manage calorie intake when eating pizza.

Total calories in a large Papa John's cheese pizza

Based on official nutrition data, a large original crust cheese pizza from Papa John's is divided into eight slices. Each slice contains approximately 290 calories. This means that a full, large 14-inch pizza contains a total of 2,320 calories (8 slices x 290 calories/slice). It is important to remember that these figures are based on the standard eight-slice cut. If the pizza is sliced differently, the per-slice calorie count will change, though the total for the whole pizza remains the same.

Nutritional breakdown per slice (original crust)

Beyond just calories, it's helpful to understand the full nutritional profile of a single slice. A large original crust cheese pizza slice provides a range of macronutrients:

• Total Fat: Roughly 10g (13% of the Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: Around 4.5g (23% of the Daily Value)
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 38g (14% of the Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: About 2g (7% of the Daily Value)
• Sugars: Approximately 5g
• Protein: Around 11g
• Sodium: Roughly 710mg (31% of the Daily Value)

It is worth noting that sodium content is quite high in a single slice, representing almost one-third of the recommended daily intake. This highlights the importance of moderation, particularly for those monitoring their salt intake.

Calorie comparison: Original vs. other crusts

The type of crust chosen has a significant impact on the final calorie count. Papa John's offers various crust options, and understanding the differences can help make a more informed choice.

Crust Type (Large Pizza)	Calories per slice	Notes
Original Crust	~290	The standard, classic option.
Thin Crust	~210	Offers a lighter calorie alternative per slice.
Gluten-Free Crust	~290	Comparable in calories to the original crust.
Epic Stuffed Crust	~360	A significantly higher calorie option due to the added cheese.

As the table demonstrates, selecting a thin crust over the original crust can reduce the calorie count by about 80 calories per slice, a substantial difference over the entire pizza. Conversely, opting for the Epic Stuffed Crust adds a considerable number of calories.

Factors influencing pizza calories

While the base cheese pizza provides a solid starting point, other factors can quickly alter the final calorie count:

• Toppings: Adding meat or extra cheese significantly increases the fat and calorie content. For example, a large pepperoni pizza has more calories per slice than a plain cheese one. Vegetable toppings generally add fewer calories.
• Dipping Sauces: Papa John's is known for its dipping sauces. For instance, a single container of special garlic dipping sauce can add 150 calories, dramatically increasing the caloric density of a meal.
• Serving Size: The number of slices you eat is the most direct determinant of total calorie intake. Sticking to a single slice versus consuming half the pizza makes a monumental difference in your overall daily count.

Making a healthier choice

For those looking to enjoy Papa John's pizza while keeping calories in check, consider these tips:

1. Opt for Thin Crust: This is the simplest and most effective way to reduce calories per slice without sacrificing flavor.
2. Add Vegetable Toppings: Pile on veggies like green peppers, onions, mushrooms, and black olives. They add flavor and nutrients for minimal caloric cost.
3. Use Dipping Sauces Sparingly: The signature garlic sauce is a calorie bomb. Consider using only a small amount or skipping it altogether.
4. Practice Portion Control: Be mindful of how many slices you consume. Pre-determining your serving size can prevent overindulgence.

Conclusion

In summary, a full large original crust cheese pizza from Papa John's contains approximately 2,320 calories, with each of its eight slices accounting for about 290 calories. However, this number is not set in stone, as the final calorie total is heavily influenced by crust choice, the addition of toppings, and dipping sauces. For those monitoring their dietary intake, choosing a thin crust and being mindful of portion sizes can significantly impact the overall caloric load of their meal. Making conscious decisions about your crust, toppings, and sauces allows you to enjoy a Papa John's pizza while staying within your nutritional goals.

For additional nutritional details and allergen information, please consult the official Papa John's website for specific product data.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in one slice of a large original crust cheese pizza from Papa John's?

One slice of a large original crust cheese pizza from Papa John's contains approximately 290 calories.

Does a thin crust large cheese pizza from Papa John's have fewer calories?

Yes, a large thin crust cheese pizza from Papa John's has fewer calories per slice, typically around 210 calories, compared to the 290 calories in a slice of the original crust.

What is the total calorie count for a whole large cheese pizza from Papa John's?

Assuming the pizza is cut into eight slices, a full large original crust cheese pizza contains approximately 2,320 calories in total.

How much sodium is in a slice of Papa John's large cheese pizza?

One slice of a large original crust cheese pizza from Papa John's contains about 710mg of sodium, representing almost one-third of the average daily recommended intake.

How do different crusts affect the calories in a Papa John's cheese pizza?

The crust type significantly affects calories. For a large pizza, the Original Crust is around 290 calories per slice, Thin Crust is about 210 calories, and the Epic Stuffed Crust is approximately 360 calories per slice.

Do Papa John's dipping sauces add many calories?

Yes, dipping sauces add a substantial number of calories. For example, a single container of Papa John's special garlic dipping sauce can add an extra 150 calories to your meal.

Is the gluten-free cheese pizza from Papa John's lower in calories?

No, a large gluten-free cheese pizza from Papa John's has a calorie count per slice that is comparable to the large original crust, at around 290 calories.