A Comprehensive Look at CPK's Mac and Cheese Options
When craving the rich and creamy comfort of mac and cheese, California Pizza Kitchen offers a few different options, each with a distinct calorie count and nutritional profile. The calories vary dramatically depending on the size and preparation. Understanding these differences is key for anyone watching their intake.
The Classic Mac 'N' Cheese
California Pizza Kitchen's signature Mac 'N' Cheese is a full-sized pasta dish known for its rich and indulgent flavor. As a larger, more substantial meal, it naturally has a higher calorie count. According to CPK's menu, this dish is listed at 1280 calories. It is an adult portion and designed as a complete meal, often with options to add proteins like chicken or bacon, which would further increase the total calorie count.
The Kids' Curly Mac 'N' Cheese
For children, CPK offers a much smaller, kid-friendly version. This dish, called the Curly Mac 'N' Cheese, is made with spiral pasta and has a significantly lower calorie count. Nutrition information sources indicate this dish contains 820 calories per order. It is important to note that this is still a substantial portion for a child and contributes a large number of calories relative to a daily recommended intake for that age group.
The Small Plates Crispy Mac 'N' Cheese
For those who want a smaller taste of the classic dish, CPK has also offered a Crispy Mac 'N' Cheese as a small plate appetizer. This version features small, breaded portions of mac and cheese that are fried until golden brown. With 690 calories per serving, it is a lighter option than the full-sized pasta but is still an appetizer with a significant calorie load. It contains a considerable amount of fat, reflecting its preparation method.
The Baked Mac 'N' Cheese Menu Expansion
In a recent menu update, California Pizza Kitchen officially introduced a lineup of Baked Mac 'N' Cheese dishes, previously a secret menu item. These dishes are inspired by their iconic pizzas and are baked in their hearth ovens. The specific calorie counts for these new variations, which include options like BBQ Chicken and Five-Cheese, will differ based on their toppings. The launch of this new lineup showcases CPK's evolving mac and cheese offerings and provides more choices for customers.
Here are some of the new baked mac and cheese varieties:
- BBQ Chicken Baked Mac 'N' Cheese: A creamy version of the classic pizza, with grilled chicken and smoked gouda.
- Five-Cheese Baked Mac 'N' Cheese: A blend of five cheeses for a more decadent, cheesy experience.
- Carne Asada Baked Mac 'N' Cheese: Features marinated steak and cilantro pesto for a savory twist.
What Does This Mean for Your Diet?
Comparing the different mac and cheese options at CPK reveals a wide range of calories. While the classic pasta can constitute more than half of a person's average daily calorie allowance in a single meal, the smaller versions offer more manageable portions. However, even the smaller options remain high in fat and sodium, making them better suited for occasional treats rather than a regular part of a diet plan. Adding lean protein or a side salad can help balance the meal, though it will also increase the total caloric intake.
For those interested in the full nutrition details of CPK's offerings, the company provides information on its official menu and nutritional guides. It's always best to check the most current information directly from the restaurant. The official CPK menu can be found here: California Pizza Kitchen Menu.
Conclusion
In summary, the number of calories in California Pizza Kitchen's mac and cheese depends entirely on which version you order. The adult pasta is a high-calorie entree at 1280 calories, while the kids' portion has 820 calories, and the small plate appetizer is 690 calories. With the introduction of the new baked mac 'n' cheese lineup, customers have even more varieties to choose from, each with its own nutritional profile. For a balanced diet, it is recommended to enjoy these dishes in moderation and consider portion sizes carefully.
