How many calories are in a small slice of garlic bread?

November 28, 2025 •

4 min read

According to nutritional data, a single small slice of garlic bread can contain anywhere from 50 to over 100 calories, a wide range that depends heavily on preparation. Understanding how many calories are in a small slice of garlic bread is essential for those managing their dietary intake, as seemingly minor differences in ingredients and portion size can lead to significant variations in the total calorie count.

Quick Summary

The calorie count of a small slice of garlic bread varies significantly based on factors like preparation, ingredients, and portion size. Homemade recipes offer more control over the nutritional value, while store-bought and restaurant versions can have different calorie totals. Several methods can be used to reduce the calorie content without sacrificing flavor.

Key Points

Variable Calorie Count: A small slice of garlic bread can contain anywhere from 50 to over 150 calories, depending on preparation and ingredients.
Ingredient Impact: Key factors like the type of bread, the amount of butter or oil used, and the addition of cheese significantly affect the final calorie count.
Fat Adds Calories: The fat source, whether butter or olive oil, is a major caloric contributor. A single tablespoon can add over 100 calories.
Healthier Alternatives: Choosing whole grain bread, using olive oil instead of butter, and limiting or omitting cheese are effective ways to reduce calorie and fat content.
Portion Control is Key: Regardless of the ingredients, managing portion size is crucial for controlling calorie intake, especially with calorie-dense foods like garlic bread.
Homemade vs. Other Varieties: Homemade garlic bread offers the most control over nutritional content, while restaurant and frozen versions can have a much higher and less predictable calorie count.

Calorie Breakdown for a Small Slice of Garlic Bread

The number of calories in a small slice of garlic bread is not a fixed figure but a variable that depends on several factors. Data from various nutrition sources shows this range clearly. For instance, a basic small slice (around 22–25g) might have as few as 53 calories, while a thicker, more butter-laden slice of presliced bread (around 43g) can contain over 150 calories. This disparity highlights the importance of considering the specific type of garlic bread when tracking your intake.

The Impact of Ingredients on Calorie Count

Bread Type: The base bread is a major factor. A small slice of a light, fluffy baguette will have fewer calories than a denser Texas toast or a whole wheat slice, though whole wheat offers more fiber and nutrients. Whole grain options, while potentially similar in calories, provide more nutritional value and a lower glycemic impact.
Type and Amount of Fat: The fat source is one of the most significant calorie contributors. A tablespoon of butter adds approximately 100 calories, while a tablespoon of olive oil contains about 125 calories. The amount of spread used directly correlates with the final calorie count. Recipes with generous amounts of butter will be considerably higher in calories and saturated fat compared to those using a lighter coating or olive oil.
Cheese Addition: Adding cheese can substantially increase the calorie count. A small slice of cheesy garlic bread can add an extra 20 to 50 calories or more, depending on the amount and type of cheese used. The fat content in cheese is a primary reason for this increase.
Garlic and Herbs: The garlic itself contributes a negligible amount of calories. A small clove of garlic has only a few calories but offers numerous health benefits due to its antioxidant properties. Similarly, adding fresh herbs like parsley or oregano has a minimal caloric impact.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought vs. Restaurant Garlic Bread

There are noticeable differences in the calorie content of garlic bread depending on its origin. Homemade versions offer the most control, allowing you to use healthier ingredients and measure portions precisely. Store-bought, frozen garlic bread often comes with a specific nutritional label but can vary widely by brand. Restaurant versions are often the most unpredictable and can be the most calorie-dense, as they frequently use more butter and fat for flavor.

Calorie Comparison: Different Garlic Bread Types


Type of Garlic Bread	Estimated Calories (per small slice)	Key Factors Influencing Calories
Homemade (Olive Oil)	~70-90 kcal	Lighter bread base, less added fat, optional cheese
Standard Store-Bought	~90-120 kcal	Pre-made spread, varying slice thickness
Cheesy Store-Bought	~110-150 kcal	Added cheese and potentially higher fat spread
Homemade (Butter)	~90-130 kcal	Amount of butter used is key variable
Restaurant-Style	~130-200+ kcal	Larger, thicker slices, more butter, possibly cheese

How to Reduce Calories in Garlic Bread

If you're watching your calorie intake but still want to enjoy garlic bread, here are several strategies for making a healthier version:

Opt for Whole Grain Bread: Choose a whole grain or whole wheat bread for more fiber and nutrients. The added fiber can also help you feel full faster.
Use Olive Oil Instead of Butter: Replace butter with extra virgin olive oil. While slightly higher in calories by volume, olive oil contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and significantly less saturated fat.
Control Portion Size: Simply cutting smaller slices and sticking to one or two pieces is the most straightforward way to reduce calorie consumption.
Go Easy on the Cheese: If you can't live without it, use a small amount of a strongly-flavored, lower-fat cheese instead of a large quantity of a standard full-fat mozzarella. Or, skip the cheese entirely and use extra herbs for flavor.
Add More Herbs: Load up on fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and oregano. They provide powerful flavor without adding significant calories.

Conclusion: Making Informed Choices for Your Garlic Bread

Ultimately, the number of calories in a small slice of garlic bread is not a one-size-fits-all number. It's a range influenced by the bread, the type and amount of spread, and additional ingredients like cheese. For a basic, homemade slice with olive oil, you can expect a lower calorie count, often under 100 calories. However, a lavish restaurant-style slice with extra butter and cheese can easily surpass 150 calories. By being mindful of your ingredients and portion sizes, you can enjoy this classic comfort food while keeping your dietary goals on track. The key is to be an informed consumer, whether you're dining out, buying frozen, or making it from scratch at home.

Making Your Own Healthier Garlic Bread

Making your own garlic bread gives you complete control over the ingredients. Try this simple recipe for a lighter version:

Ingredients:
- 1 whole grain baguette, sliced into thin rounds
- 2-3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4-6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: a light dusting of parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
3. Brush a light, even layer of the mixture onto each slice of bread.
4. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy at the edges. For a light cheesy flavor, add a sprinkle of parmesan for the last few minutes.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy a flavorful, but lighter, take on the classic snack.

[Authoritative Link: https://www.kimecopak.ca/blogs/cuisine/is-garlic-bread-healthy]

Frequently Asked Questions

The typical calorie range for a small slice of garlic bread is broad, starting from around 50 calories for a very basic version and going up to 150 calories or more for a thicker, richer slice with extra butter or cheese.

Adding cheese significantly increases the calorie count of garlic bread. Depending on the amount and type of cheese, it can add an extra 20 to 50 calories per slice compared to a non-cheesy version.

Homemade garlic bread can be lower in calories than store-bought versions because you have full control over the ingredients and quantity of fats used. Many frozen or pre-made garlic breads contain more fat and are often made with a higher calorie bread base.

A healthier alternative to butter is extra virgin olive oil. It contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and can be used to create a flavorful, lower-saturated-fat garlic bread.

The type of bread affects the calorie count through its density and nutrient profile. A lighter, refined white bread may have fewer calories than a denser, more fibrous whole grain bread, but the whole grain version often offers more health benefits and satiety.

Yes, you can make a delicious, low-calorie version by using a high-fiber whole grain bread, substituting olive oil for butter, and generously using fresh minced garlic and herbs like parsley or basil for enhanced flavor.

Yes, the size of the slice makes a substantial difference. A thicker, larger slice, such as those from Texas toast, will have more calories than a smaller, thinner slice from a baguette, even if the same amount of spread is used on each surface area.