Giordano's is famous for its hearty deep dish pizza, but the brand also offers a popular thin crust option. For those watching their caloric intake, the difference between these two styles is substantial. The precise calorie count is influenced by pizza size, crust thickness, and toppings, so it is important to check the nutritional information for the specific menu item you are interested in.
The Calorie Breakdown by Pizza Type
The calorie counts for a single slice of Giordano's pizza can vary dramatically. The deep dish style, known for its thick, flaky crust and generous layers of cheese and sauce, is naturally more calorie-dense than the lighter, thinner crust. The most accurate information will come from Giordano's official nutritional guides, which provide detailed data per slice based on pizza size and type.
Deep Dish Pizza Calories
The deep dish version represents a significant caloric investment due to its dense crust and abundant fillings. For example, a single slice of a small Deep Dish Chicago Classic is listed at 530 calories, with higher numbers for larger pies or pizzas with extra meat. The substantial cheese and dough contribute heavily to this number.
Thin Crust Pizza Calories
In contrast, the thin crust pizza is a much lighter alternative. A slice from a small, re-designed thin crust cheese pizza contains approximately 170 calories, while a larger 'The Special' thin crust slice is around 220 calories. These numbers highlight the benefit of choosing the thin crust if you are looking to save calories without sacrificing flavor.
Calorie Comparison: Deep Dish vs. Thin Crust
The table below illustrates the significant calorie difference between a few popular options at Giordano's based on crust type. Note that slice sizes can differ depending on the pizza's overall size and the number of slices it is cut into.
| Pizza Type | Size | Topping | Calories per Slice (Approx.) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deep Dish | Small | Chicago Classic | 530 | |
| Deep Dish | Grocery | Cheese | 349 | |
| Thin Crust | Large | The Special | 220 | |
| Thin Crust | Small, Re-Designed | Chicago Classic | 210 | |
| Thin Crust | Small, Re-Designed | Cheese | 170 | |
| Deep Dish | Small | Meat & More Meat | 640 | |
| Thin Crust | Small | Meat & More Meat | 280 |
Factors Influencing Your Calorie Count
Understanding the calorie counts is just the beginning. Several factors can either increase or decrease the total calories in your pizza meal. By being mindful of these variables, you can make more informed choices.
Toppings and Their Impact
Toppings play a major role in the final calorie count. Meat toppings such as sausage, pepperoni, and bacon add a significant amount of fat and calories. Adding extra cheese will also drive the calorie total upward. On the other hand, vegetable toppings like green peppers, onions, and mushrooms add minimal calories while providing fiber and other nutrients.
The Importance of Portion Control
Deep dish pizza is much denser and more filling than thin crust, so one slice is often sufficient for a meal. For thin crust, however, it is easier to eat multiple slices, which can quickly add up calories. Be aware of how many slices you are consuming and the size of each slice.
Healthier Ways to Enjoy Giordano's
If you're craving Giordano's but want to keep your meal on the healthier side, consider these tips to reduce your calorie intake:
- Opt for thin crust: This is the most effective way to cut a significant number of calories. The thin crust still offers the classic Giordano's flavor with a much lighter base.
- Load up on veggies: Adding vegetable toppings like spinach, broccoli, or peppers will increase the fiber content and make the pizza more filling without a major calorie boost.
- Eat less, enjoy more: Given the richness of deep dish, simply enjoying one slice and savoring it is an excellent form of portion control. Pairing it with a salad can help fill you up.
- Share with friends: Splitting a deep dish pizza with a group allows everyone to enjoy the unique flavor while managing individual portion sizes.
Conclusion
The number of calories in one slice of Giordano's pizza is not a single, fixed number but varies significantly based on the crust type, size, and toppings. A slice of thin crust pizza is a much lighter option, typically containing under 250 calories, while a deep dish slice can easily exceed 500 calories. By understanding these differences and making mindful choices about your order, you can enjoy a delicious meal from Giordano's while staying aware of your dietary goals.
For the most up-to-date and specific nutrition information, it is always recommended to check the official source. The company provides a nutritional PDF on their website for detailed figures across all menu items.