Calorie Breakdown of Stuffed Cheesy Bread
To understand the total calorie count, it's essential to break down the main ingredients of stuffed cheesy bread: the dough, the cheese, and the toppings. Each component contributes significantly to the final nutritional profile. For example, a single piece of Domino's Stuffed Cheesy Bread contains approximately 150 calories, but this number can vary based on portion size and ingredients.
The Dough
The dough is the carbohydrate base of the dish and contributes a substantial amount of calories. The calorie count can change based on the dough type, with whole wheat versions being slightly higher in fiber and lower in simple carbs than white flour versions. For instance, generic dough can contain around 272 calories per 100 grams, with most of that coming from carbohydrates. Pizzerias often use proprietary dough recipes that may contain added sugars and fats to improve texture and flavor, further impacting the calorie total.
The Cheese
Cheese is a major contributor to the fat and calorie content. The type and amount of cheese used can drastically alter the nutrition. A standard stuffed cheesy bread from Domino's uses a combination of mozzarella and cheddar, which are both high in calories. For comparison, cheddar cheese has about 114 calories per ounce, while part-skim mozzarella is closer to 85 calories per ounce. A generous filling of cheese, plus a layer on top, significantly increases the final count. The addition of cream cheese, often used in recipes like jalapeno-bacon cheesy bread, adds even more fat and calories.
Toppings and Sauces
Beyond the dough and cheese, toppings and finishing touches play a role. Garlic butter brushed on top adds flavor and a significant amount of fat and calories. Optional add-ons like bacon and jalapenos can also raise the total. A side of marinara or cheese sauce for dipping further adds to the caloric load, with many dipping sauces containing over 50 calories per serving.
Comparison of Stuffed Cheesy Breads
Calorie counts for stuffed cheesy bread differ greatly between popular restaurants due to portion sizes, ingredients, and preparation methods. Here is a comparison of some well-known varieties. Note that these are approximations and can vary.
| Item | Portion Size | Calories (approx.) | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Domino's Stuffed Cheesy Bread (Plain) | 1 piece (1.8 oz) | 150 | 7 | 16 |
| Domino's Jalapeno Bacon Stuffed Cheesy Bread | 1 piece (2 oz) | 170 | 8 | 16 |
| Homemade Stuffed Cheesy Bread | 1 piece (approx.) | Varies greatly | Varies greatly | Varies greatly |
How to Make Stuffed Cheesy Bread Healthier
If you're looking for a guilt-free way to enjoy this comfort food, making it at home offers control over the ingredients and nutritional value.
Here are some tips for a healthier version:
- Use Whole Wheat Dough: Swapping refined white flour for a whole wheat or whole grain dough increases fiber content. You can also try a homemade dough with olive oil instead of butter.
- Choose Lighter Cheeses: Part-skim mozzarella, feta, and light ricotta are lower-calorie cheese options. Feta has a strong flavor, so a little goes a long way.
- Load Up on Veggies: Incorporate ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers to add nutrients, fiber, and volume without excess calories. This strategy was suggested for making healthier grilled cheese sandwiches.
- Control the Butter and Toppings: Use a light brush of olive oil mixed with garlic powder instead of melted butter to reduce saturated fat. Skip high-calorie toppings like bacon.
- Make an Open-Faced Version: An open-faced cheesy bread slices calories and carbs instantly by using only one slice of bread.
Conclusion
While a single piece of stuffed cheesy bread from a national chain like Domino's can contain around 150 calories, the total can balloon significantly depending on how many pieces you eat, the specific ingredients, and whether dipping sauces are used. The caloric density comes from the combination of high-fat cheese and carbohydrate-rich dough. For those monitoring their intake, making a homemade, modified version with healthier ingredients like whole wheat dough, lighter cheeses, and plenty of vegetables is a delicious and effective alternative. Understanding the calorie count allows for a more mindful approach to enjoying this cheesy delight.
For more information on the calorie content of various foods, consider visiting the CalorieKing website, which provides detailed nutritional data for many restaurant items.
