How Many Calories Are in Cheese at Chipotle?

January 4, 2026 •

4 min read

According to Chipotle's nutrition facts, a standard 1 oz serving of shredded cheese contains 110 calories. This makes it one of the more calorie-dense toppings, so understanding how many calories are in cheese at Chipotle is crucial for managing your total meal's nutritional impact.

Quick Summary

This nutritional breakdown explains the calorie counts for Chipotle's shredded cheese and Queso Blanco based on official serving sizes. It offers a comparison of different cheese options and practical tips for balancing them within a healthy meal plan.

Key Points

110 Calories: A standard 1 oz serving of shredded Monterey Jack cheese from Chipotle contains 110 calories.
Queso Blanco Calories: A 2 oz side of Queso Blanco at Chipotle contains 120 calories, while a larger 4 oz side has 240 calories.
Saturated Fat: Both shredded cheese and Queso Blanco contain a significant amount of saturated fat, which should be considered for heart-healthy diets.
Portion Control: Ask for 'light' cheese or order Queso on the side to better manage your serving size and reduce calories.
High in Fat: The calories from cheese are primarily from fat, making it a calorie-dense addition to any meal.
Manage Your Meal: Combine cheese with lower-calorie, high-fiber options like fajita vegetables or lettuce to balance your meal's nutritional content.

Understanding Chipotle's Cheese Offerings

Chipotle provides two primary cheese options for its customers: the classic shredded Monterey Jack cheese and the more decadent Queso Blanco. While both add a flavorful richness to any burrito, bowl, or taco, their caloric impact varies significantly. A single 1 oz serving of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese contributes 110 calories, primarily from its fat and protein content. Conversely, the Queso Blanco is served in a different portion size, making a direct comparison slightly more complex.

The official 2 oz side serving of Queso Blanco contains 120 calories, while a larger 4 oz side contains 240 calories. It is important to note that a serving of shredded cheese is typically 1 oz, while the initial serving of Queso is 2 oz, effectively doubling the initial calorie add. However, because Queso is a dip, many consumers may end up eating more than a single serving, especially if pairing it with a large order of chips, which can contain up to 810 calories for a large bag.

Breaking Down the Calorie Contribution

To put the numbers into perspective, let's consider the total macronutrient breakdown for the standard 1 oz serving of shredded Monterey Jack cheese:

Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 1g

The Queso Blanco, while being a sauce rather than a shredded topping, has a different nutritional profile due to its preparation. For the 2 oz side:

Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 4g

While the total fat and protein per serving are comparable to the shredded cheese, the Queso introduces a higher carbohydrate count. This is a crucial distinction for those on low-carb diets.

Calorie Comparison: Shredded Cheese vs. Queso Blanco


Feature	Shredded Monterey Jack	Queso Blanco (2 oz side)
Serving Size	1 oz	2 oz
Calories	110	120
Total Fat	8 g	8 g
Saturated Fat	5 g	5 g
Carbohydrates	1 g	4 g
Protein	6 g	6 g

Strategies for Mindful Eating

For those looking to manage their calorie and fat intake, there are several ways to enjoy your Chipotle meal without overdoing it on the cheese. The most direct method is to simply request a smaller portion. Chipotle's staff is generally accommodating to requests for 'light' servings of toppings, including cheese and sour cream. Alternatively, you can opt for a bowl instead of a burrito, which makes it easier to visually control your portion sizes. Swapping out a high-calorie side like chips for a healthier option such as extra lettuce or salsa can also help balance the meal.

Here are some healthy tips to consider:

Request 'Light Cheese': Asking for a smaller sprinkle of cheese can significantly reduce the calories without completely sacrificing the flavor. This is particularly effective for the shredded cheese, which is added by hand.
Choose Wisely: If you love both cheese and sour cream, choose one instead of getting both. The calories from both toppings combined can add up quickly.
Opt for Queso on the Side: Getting Queso Blanco on the side allows you to dip and control how much you consume, rather than having it poured directly onto your meal. This is a great strategy to prevent overconsumption.
Load Up on Veggies: Balance the richness of cheese by adding more low-calorie, high-fiber vegetables, such as fajita veggies or extra romaine lettuce. This will make your meal more filling and nutritious.
Split the Meal: A standard Chipotle burrito or bowl, especially with cheese and other rich toppings, can be a very large meal. Consider splitting it into two servings to spread out the calorie intake.

Final Thoughts on Calorie Management

While cheese is a delicious and flavorful addition, its calorie density means it can heavily influence the overall nutritional profile of your meal. Understanding how many calories are in cheese at Chipotle empowers you to make informed decisions that align with your dietary goals. By utilizing portion control, making smart substitutions, and loading up on veggies, you can still enjoy the great taste of Chipotle while keeping your caloric intake in check. For those actively monitoring their diet, the official Chipotle nutrition information is an invaluable tool for planning ahead.

Conclusion

In summary, a standard 1 oz portion of shredded Monterey Jack cheese at Chipotle contains 110 calories. The Queso Blanco is offered in 2 oz and 4 oz servings, with 120 and 240 calories respectively. Managing these additions is key to controlling the total calories of your Chipotle meal. Simple strategies like asking for less cheese or opting for more vegetables can make a big difference in the overall nutritional impact of your order. Staying mindful of these choices allows you to enjoy your food while maintaining a balanced diet.

Authoritative Source

For the most up-to-date and comprehensive nutrition information, it is always best to consult the official source. The Chipotle website provides a detailed nutrition calculator and menu information that can help you customize your meal and track your intake accurately.

Frequently Asked Questions

According to nutrition trackers, a single tablespoon of Chipotle's Monterey Jack cheese can contain around 110 calories. However, this can vary slightly based on the exact portion size scooped.

Yes, Chipotle's shredded cheese contains a small amount of carbohydrates. A 1 oz serving has approximately 1 gram of total carbohydrates.

A small 2 oz side of Chipotle's Queso Blanco contains 120 calories, while a large 4 oz side contains 240 calories.

Neither is inherently 'healthier,' but the choice depends on portion size. A 1 oz serving of shredded cheese has 110 calories, while the initial 2 oz serving of Queso is 120 calories. Queso has slightly more carbs per serving, but both are comparable in fat and protein. Mindful portioning is the key.

You can reduce cheese calories by asking for a 'light' portion, ordering Queso on the side to control your intake, or opting to have cheese on tacos instead of a large burrito or bowl.

While Chipotle does not specify the exact calorie difference, ordering a 'light' portion of shredded cheese will likely cut the calorie count by approximately half, depending on the server's discretion. This is a simple and effective way to save calories.

Yes, many customers ask for half portions of calorie-dense toppings like cheese and sour cream. This is a common practice and an excellent strategy for managing your meal's overall caloric load.