Understanding Papa Murphy's 5-Meat Pizza Calories
Determining the exact calorie count for a Papa Murphy's 5-Meat pizza requires attention to the specific options chosen during your order. The total calorie content is not a single, fixed number because it is influenced by the pizza's size and crust type. The five meats typically include pepperoni, Italian sausage, Canadian bacon, bacon, and ground beef, all layered under a generous portion of cheese. This combination of rich toppings and cheese is what gives the pizza its robust, savory flavor—and its high calorie count.
The Impact of Crust Type and Size
Papa Murphy's offers several crusts, with the "Original" and "Stuffed" being the most common for the 5-Meat variety. The Stuffed crust, which contains an extra layer of cheese baked inside the dough, significantly increases the calorie and fat content compared to the standard Original crust. For example, a large, stuffed-crust slice is higher in calories than a large, original-crust slice. Additionally, the size of the pizza, whether a large, family, or medium, also dictates the calorie per-slice count, as larger pizzas are typically cut into more slices and can contain more total ingredients.
Comparing Calorie Counts: A Detailed Look
Let's break down the calorie counts for different versions of the Papa Murphy's 5-Meat pizza based on available nutritional information. For this comparison, we will reference data for a similar "All Meat" pizza from Papa Murphy's as well, as the 5-Meat offering is often an elevated version of this core product.
| Pizza Type | Size (Slices) | Approximate Calories per Slice |
|---|---|---|
| 5-Meat Stuffed Crust | Large (12) | ~480-490 |
| 5-Meat Stuffed Crust | Family (16) | ~440-460 |
| 5-Meat Original Crust | Large (12) | ~362 |
| All Meat Original Crust | Family (12) | ~330 |
Note: Calorie information can vary slightly between different nutritional databases and may not perfectly reflect the most current Papa Murphy's data. Always check the official website for the most accurate figures.
Factors That Influence Calorie Totals
Several elements contribute to the final calorie count of your 5-Meat pizza. Understanding these can help you better estimate its nutritional impact:
- Meat Toppings: The combination of pepperoni, sausage, Canadian bacon, ground beef, and standard bacon provides a significant amount of protein and fat, which are the main sources of calories in the toppings.
- Cheese Quantity: The amount of cheese is a primary driver of calories. The stuffed crust option, in particular, adds a substantial amount of extra dairy and calories to each slice.
- Crust Thickness: A thicker crust means more dough and, consequently, more carbohydrates and calories. The Thin crust option, while not always listed specifically for the 5-Meat, is a good way to reduce calories on other pizzas.
- Preparation Method: Because Papa Murphy's is a take-and-bake product, the cooking process can also affect the final nutritional value. For instance, any added oil or cooking spray would increase the calorie count, though this is not reflected in the standard nutritional data.
How to Enjoy Your 5-Meat Pizza More Healthfully
While the 5-Meat pizza is a treat, you can take steps to make it a more balanced part of your diet:
- Mind your portion size: Instead of eating two or three large slices, stick to just one. Remember that a large stuffed-crust slice can be nearly a quarter of a 2,000-calorie daily diet.
- Pair with a salad: Serve your pizza with a large, fresh side salad. The extra fiber and nutrients from the vegetables will help you feel full and satisfied with a smaller portion of the pizza.
- Choose a thinner crust: If available, opting for a thin crust over a stuffed or original crust is the simplest way to cut down on calories, carbs, and fat.
- Share with a group: A family-sized pizza should be shared. By dividing it among more people, you naturally reduce your individual portion size and calorie intake.
Conclusion
To determine how many calories in a Papa Murphy's 5 meat pizza, you must consider the specific size and crust you purchase. The difference between a single slice of a large stuffed crust and a family original crust can be over 100 calories, a significant amount for anyone watching their intake. By understanding these variations, you can still enjoy this delicious pizza while making informed choices to manage your nutritional goals. Always verify the latest information on the official Papa Murphy's website for the most accurate figures.
