Tombstone Pizza Calorie Breakdown by Variety
The number of calories in a slice of Tombstone pizza is not a single, fixed number. Instead, it depends heavily on the specific variety you choose. For example, a basic cheese pizza will contain fewer calories than a meat-lover's supreme pizza. The 'serving size' defined by the manufacturer is also a critical factor, as it can be 1/4, 1/5, or 1/6 of the pizza, so always check the box carefully before calculating. For an accurate calorie count, it's essential to look at the nutritional information for the exact flavor you plan to eat. Some of the most popular varieties and their typical calorie counts per slice include:
- Original Pepperoni Pizza: Approximately 350-360 calories per slice.
- Four Meat Pizza: Often around 350-360 calories per slice, similar to the pepperoni due to the high-fat meats.
- Supreme Pizza: This flavor, packed with sausage, pepperoni, peppers, and olives, typically falls in the 350-calorie range per slice.
- Five Cheese Pizza: A slice of this cheese-heavy pizza can contain about 340-350 calories.
Factors Influencing the Calorie Count
Several components of a frozen pizza contribute to its total calorie load. Understanding these elements can help you make more informed decisions about your meal.
- Toppings: Meat toppings like pepperoni and sausage are significant calorie contributors due to their high fat content. A plain cheese pizza will be lower in calories than a pizza loaded with various meats.
- Crust: Tombstone's signature buttery, crispy crust adds to the calorie count. The thickness of the crust can also play a role; a thicker crust generally means more calories and carbohydrates.
- Cheese: The amount and type of cheese used are major factors. Tombstone uses a considerable amount of real mozzarella cheese, which is a key source of fat and protein. Some varieties may also include other cheeses, further altering the final calorie count.
- Sauce: While tomato sauce isn't the primary source of calories, it can contain added sugars and fats that contribute to the overall energy count. Tombstone's zesty sauce adds flavor but also a small number of calories.
How to Make Your Frozen Pizza Meal Healthier
Enjoying frozen pizza doesn't have to derail your dietary goals. Here are some strategies to make your Tombstone pizza meal a bit healthier:
- Portion Control: Stick to the recommended serving size, usually 1/4 or 1/5 of the pie, and don't be tempted to eat more. This is the simplest way to manage your calorie intake.
- Blotting: Use a paper towel to gently blot the excess oil from the top of the pizza after it has baked. This can remove a measurable amount of fat and calories.
- Add Vegetables: Supplement your pizza with extra vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms. This increases the nutrient density and fiber content, making the meal more filling without significantly adding calories.
- Pair with a Side Salad: Serve your pizza with a large, fresh side salad. The fiber from the salad will help you feel fuller faster, potentially reducing the number of pizza slices you eat.
- Choose Wisely: Opt for lower-calorie varieties or thin-crust options where available to reduce your overall intake. Also consider pizza alternatives with lower calories per serving, such as those with cauliflower crusts.
Comparison Table: Tombstone vs. Other Frozen Pizzas
To put Tombstone's calorie count in perspective, here is a comparison with other popular frozen pizza brands, based on available data for a typical cheese or pepperoni slice:
| Brand | Flavor | Approx. Calories per Slice | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tombstone | Original Pepperoni | 350-360 | Buttery, crispy crust with zesty sauce. |
| Jack's Pizza | Original Pepperoni | 390 | Often a thin-crust style but with a higher calorie count per slice due to larger slice size. |
| Amy's Kitchen | Thin Crust Margherita | 280 | Organic, thin-crust, lower-calorie option. |
| Home Run Inn | Classic Cheese | 340 | Made with a unique corn-based crust. |
| Screamin' Sicilian | Bessie's Revenge Cheese | 360 | Known for a very cheesy and indulgent experience. |
| Milton's | Cauliflower Crust | 230 | Lower-calorie, high-protein, cauliflower-based crust alternative. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to "how many calories are in a slice of Tombstone pizza" is not a simple figure but varies by variety, typically falling within the 280 to 360-calorie range. The precise calorie count is dependent on the specific flavor, with meatier and cheesier options being higher in calories than simpler ones. Factors like crust, toppings, and cheese all contribute significantly to the total. By checking the nutritional label, controlling portion sizes, and incorporating healthier meal strategies like adding vegetables, it's possible to enjoy Tombstone pizza in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Individuals who are highly conscious of their calorie and nutrient intake may also consider healthier alternatives available on the market, such as pizzas with cauliflower or thin crusts, to better align with their dietary needs.
Resources
For more information on nutritional values and making healthier dietary choices, consider consulting a registered dietitian or a reliable nutrition-focused resource like the USDA FoodData Central database. USDA FoodData Central is an excellent resource for detailed nutritional information on many food products.
