How many calories in a beef and cheese croissant? A nutritional breakdown

November 4, 2025 •

3 min read

With some restaurant versions containing over 670 calories in a single serving, the number of calories in a beef and cheese croissant can vary dramatically. This popular breakfast item's nutritional profile is heavily influenced by portion size, ingredients, and preparation methods.

Quick Summary

A beef and cheese croissant's calorie count varies greatly by vendor, typically ranging from 390 to over 670 calories, with notable amounts of fat and sodium.

Key Points

Calories Vary Widely: Depending on the vendor and size, a beef and cheese croissant can range from approximately 390 to 680 calories per serving.
High in Fat and Sodium: Most beef and cheese croissants are high in fat, particularly saturated fat from butter and cheese, and contain significant amounts of sodium.
Moderate Protein Content: The beef and cheese provide a decent amount of protein, though this is often overshadowed by the high fat and calorie levels.
Refined Carbohydrates: The pastry is typically made with refined flour, offering a quick energy boost but lacking in fiber.
Homemade Offers Control: Making a homemade version allows for control over ingredients like leaner beef and lower-fat cheese, which can significantly improve its nutritional value.
Best Enjoyed in Moderation: Due to its high caloric and fat content, a beef and cheese croissant is best enjoyed occasionally rather than as a daily breakfast staple.

The wide range of calories

When considering how many calories in a beef and cheese croissant, it is important to recognize that a standardized number does not exist. The calorie count depends on the specific brand or restaurant, the size of the croissant, and the type of beef and cheese used. For example, a larger, more indulgent sandwich will naturally contain more calories than a smaller, more moderately portioned one.

Factors influencing the calorie count

Several key factors contribute to the total caloric value of a beef and cheese croissant:

The Croissant Itself: The base croissant, made with layers of butter and dough, is inherently high in fat and calories. The size and amount of butter used in the lamination process directly impact the final count.
The Cheese: The type of cheese can make a significant difference. A fatty cheddar or a mild swiss will add different amounts of calories and saturated fat.
The Beef: The cut of beef and how it is prepared (e.g., roasted, deli-style) and the quantity used also affects the calorie and fat content. Some versions may use heavily processed deli meat.
Added Condiments: Any added sauces, such as mayonnaise or creamy spreads, can add extra, often hidden, calories.

A detailed nutritional breakdown

Beyond just calories, a beef and cheese croissant also provides a mix of macronutrients, though it is often imbalanced with high fat and sodium levels.

Macronutrient Profile

Fat: A significant portion of the calories in a beef and cheese croissant comes from fat, particularly saturated fat from the butter and cheese. Excess saturated fat can negatively impact heart health by raising LDL cholesterol levels.
Protein: The beef and cheese contribute a substantial amount of protein, which is important for muscle repair and feeling full. However, the high fat content often outweighs this benefit.
Carbohydrates: The flaky, doughy pastry provides a solid dose of carbohydrates for energy. Unfortunately, these are often refined carbs, which can lead to quick blood sugar spikes and crashes.

Sodium Content

Sodium is another major concern. The combination of processed beef and cheese, along with preservatives, can result in very high sodium levels that exceed a significant portion of the daily recommended intake. Some restaurant versions contain close to 1000mg or more of sodium per serving. The American Heart Association recommends limiting daily sodium to 2,300mg, with an ideal limit of 1,500mg for most adults, making one croissant a sizable chunk of the daily allowance.

Comparison of beef and cheese croissant options

To illustrate the nutritional variations, here is a comparison of different beef and cheese croissant offerings mentioned in the search results:


Item	Calories	Total Fat	Saturated Fat	Sodium	Protein
Portillo's Beef N Cheddar Croissant	670	41g	19g	930mg	31g
Kowalski's Roast Beef & Cheddar Croissant	670	39g	22g	1980mg	36g
Fresh to You Roast Beef Swiss Cheese Croissant	390	17g	8g	1000mg	25g
Lee's Roast Beef & Cheese Croissant Sandwich	475 (per 0.5 serving)	23g	11g	~	25g

Homemade vs. fast-food options

When deciding between a fast-food and a homemade beef and cheese croissant, control over ingredients is the most significant differentiator. Fast-food options are often highly processed and laden with preservatives and additives, whereas a homemade version can be controlled to be a much healthier option.

To make a healthier homemade version:

Use a high-quality, lean roast beef to reduce fat content.
Choose a lower-fat cheese option, such as Swiss or provolone, and use it sparingly.
Opt for whole-wheat croissant dough to add some fiber.
Load up on fresh, nutrient-dense fillings like spinach, arugula, tomatoes, and herbs to balance the meal.
Control portion sizes by using smaller croissants or making an open-faced sandwich.

Conclusion

While a beef and cheese croissant can be a delicious treat, it is typically high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium. The exact nutritional information varies widely depending on the vendor and ingredients. For health-conscious individuals, it is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Choosing a homemade version with leaner ingredients and added vegetables can significantly improve its nutritional profile and make it a more wholesome meal. For those curious about making healthier breakfast choices, exploring different recipes and ingredient swaps can be a rewarding journey.

Learn more about the general nutritional value of croissants and how to make them healthier by reading this informative Healthline article on croissant nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, beef and cheese croissants are not ideal for weight loss due to their high calorie, fat, and sodium content. While you can include them in a balanced diet in moderation, consistently consuming high-calorie, low-nutrient foods can hinder weight loss goals.

The macronutrient breakdown can vary, but generally, a beef and cheese croissant is high in fat and carbohydrates and provides a moderate amount of protein. A Portillo's Beef N Cheddar Croissant, for example, is about 55% fat, 26% carbs, and 19% protein.

Yes, the sodium content is a major concern. Due to processed meats and cheese, many store-bought beef and cheese croissants contain a high percentage of your daily recommended sodium intake, with some versions exceeding 1000mg.

To make a healthier version, use lean roast beef, a lower-fat cheese like Swiss, and opt for whole-wheat dough if possible. You can also add fresh vegetables like spinach or tomato to boost nutrients and fiber.

Yes, due to the butter in the pastry and the fat in the cheese and beef, a beef and cheese croissant is typically very high in saturated fat. Excessive intake of saturated fat can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.

Healthier alternatives include oatmeal with fruit, a yogurt parfait, or a whole-wheat toast with avocado and eggs. These options generally provide more fiber and a better balance of macronutrients.

No, the calories differ based on the ingredients, size, and vendor. Always check the nutritional information provided by the specific restaurant or brand, as there can be significant variations.