A Detailed Look at Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Calories
The crispy and savory cream cheese rangoon is a popular appetizer at Panda Express. Understanding the nutritional information, particularly the calorie count, is valuable for those who are monitoring their intake. A standard order of cream cheese rangoons from Panda Express has three pieces and provides 190 calories. It's important to understand the breakdown of these calories in terms of fat, carbohydrates, and protein.
Macronutrient Breakdown of a Three-Piece Serving
The composition of the calories is key to understanding the full nutritional profile. The 190 calories in cream cheese rangoons come from a few macronutrients:
- Total Fat: The appetizer contains 8 grams of total fat. Of this, 5 grams are saturated fat. The frying process contributes to this higher fat content.
- Carbohydrates: With 24 grams of total carbohydrates, the rangoons are primarily composed of carbs, largely from the crispy wonton wrapper. This includes a small amount of dietary fiber and just 1 gram of sugar.
- Protein: A serving provides 5 grams of protein, a modest amount from the cream cheese filling.
- Sodium: The rangoons also contain 180 milligrams of sodium, which is about 8% of the Daily Value for a 2,000-calorie diet.
Comparing Appetizer Calories at Panda Express
Comparing the nutritional information helps when choosing an appetizer at Panda Express. Here is a comparison of cream cheese rangoons with other popular appetizers on the menu.
| Appetizer | Serving Size | Calories | Total Fat | Total Carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cream Cheese Rangoon | 3 pieces | 190 | 8 g | 24 g | 5 g |
| Chicken Egg Roll | 1 roll | 170 | 9 g | 17 g | 7 g |
| Veggie Spring Roll | 1 roll | 150 | 7 g | 18 g | 3 g |
| Chicken Potsticker | 6 pieces | 440 | 25 g | 49 g | 11 g |
Cream cheese rangoons are not the lowest-calorie appetizer, but they are lighter than the Chicken Potstickers. The Veggie Spring Roll offers a similar calorie count with less fat, making it a comparable option for those watching their intake.
Tips for Balancing Your Meal
Consider these tips if you want to enjoy cream cheese rangoons while keeping your meal balanced:
- Pair with Lighter Entrées: Combine the rangoons with a lower-calorie, protein-heavy entrée such as Black Pepper Chicken or Grilled Teriyaki Chicken. These can balance the fat and carbs from the appetizer.
- Choose a Healthy Side: Opt for the Super Greens side instead of fried rice or chow mein. A serving of Super Greens contains only 50 calories, 1.5 grams of fat, and 7 grams of carbs, making it a lighter complement.
- Share the Appetizer: Consider sharing the order with someone else. This can help reduce your overall calorie consumption for the meal.
- Make Your Own at Home: You can make a version of cream cheese rangoons at home for maximum control over ingredients. Choose low-fat cream cheese and use healthier cooking methods, such as baking instead of deep-frying.
How to Calculate Calories for Multiple Servings
Panda Express serves the rangoons in a three-piece order, so the nutritional information reflects that serving size. If you have more or fewer pieces, you can calculate the adjusted calorie count. For example, a single cream cheese rangoon has about 63 calories (190 calories divided by 3 pieces). Eating two pieces means consuming about 126 calories.
Conclusion
Cream cheese rangoons from Panda Express are a fried appetizer with 190 calories per three-piece serving. They are not the most nutritionally dense item on the menu, providing a moderate amount of fat and carbohydrates and a small amount of protein. You can still enjoy this treat as part of a balanced meal by being mindful of the serving size and pairing them with lighter main courses and sides. Always check the official Panda Express nutrition facts for the most up-to-date information, as values can sometimes change.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cream cheese rangoons come in a single order?
A single order of cream cheese rangoons at Panda Express contains three pieces.
What are the main ingredients in Panda Express cream cheese rangoons?
The main ingredients are a wonton wrapper, cream cheese, and the oil it is fried in. The wrappers contribute most of the carbohydrates, while the filling and cooking process contribute to the fat content.
Are Panda Express cream cheese rangoons a good source of protein?
No, they are not a good source of protein. A three-piece serving only contains 5 grams of protein, a relatively small amount compared to many entrées on the menu.
Can I find cream cheese rangoons on the Panda Express official website?
Yes, you can find the cream cheese rangoons on the official Panda Express menu, including their full nutritional information, either on their website or mobile app.
Is it possible to get a different portion size of cream cheese rangoons?
Panda Express typically sells the cream cheese rangoons in a standard three-piece portion. Customizing the portion size depends on the store and availability.
Are cream cheese rangoons vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, since cream cheese is a dairy product and no meat is included, the cream cheese rangoons are typically vegetarian-friendly. However, those with strict dietary preferences should always verify ingredients.
How can I make a healthier version of cream cheese rangoons at home?
You can create a healthier version by using baked wonton wrappers, low-fat cream cheese, and skipping the deep-frying process. This can significantly reduce the fat and calorie content.
