A Closer Look at the Costco 5-Cheese Pizza
Costco's cheese pizza is a popular food court item. However, the large slices mean a high calorie count compared to typical fast-food pizzas. Nutritional information can vary between the fresh food court pizza and the 'Take and Bake' version available in the warehouse, due to differences in formulation and preparation.
The Food Court Pizza vs. The Take and Bake Pizza
The food court pizza is a large, pre-cooked pie, while the 'Take and Bake' is a slightly smaller version cooked at home. Understanding the difference is important for dietary tracking.
Breaking Down the Calories Per Slice
A slice of Costco food court cheese pizza contains between 699 and 760 calories due to its size and cheese content. Online nutritional information may vary, but the numbers are consistently high. A slice is typically around 10 ounces, often twice the size of a standard slice from other pizzerias.
What's in a Whole Pie?
Because it is 18 inches in diameter, a full Costco cheese pizza is calorie-dense. Cut into 12 slices, a full food court pie can contain over 4,500 calories. Some earlier estimates placed the number closer to 4,800 calories for certain versions. The "5 cheese" distinction refers to the blend of cheeses used, often including a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and other varieties. This combination contributes to the rich, savory flavor and the high fat and calorie content.
The Nutritional Details Beyond Calories
Besides calories, the nutritional breakdown is also significant. The cheese pizza is high in saturated fat and sodium. A single slice can contain over 14 grams of saturated fat, a large portion of the recommended daily intake. Sodium levels often exceed 1,000 milligrams per slice. The pizza is also a source of protein, with a slice sometimes containing over 40 grams.
Lists and Tables for Easy Comparison
Key Macronutrients Per Slice (Approximate Values):
- Total Fat: ~28g
- Saturated Fat: ~14g
- Sodium: ~1370mg
- Total Carbohydrates: ~70g
- Protein: ~44g
Comparison of Costco Food Court Pizza (Per Slice):
| Nutrient | Cheese Pizza | Pepperoni Pizza | Combo Pizza | Daily Value (%)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 699-760 | 710-760 | 760-770 | 35-38% (Based on 2000 cal diet) |
| Saturated Fat | 14g | ~14g | ~15g | ~70% |
| Sodium | 1370mg | ~1400mg | ~1500mg | ~57% |
*Note: Nutritional information can vary based on the specific source and portion size variations.
Navigating Your Costco Pizza Experience
If managing caloric intake, consider splitting a slice with a friend. Another option is to pair a smaller portion with a healthier, lower-calorie food court item, such as the Chicken Caesar Salad with dressing on the side. Being aware of these factors allows enjoyment of the pizza without disrupting a diet. For a detailed breakdown of the entire food court menu, consider exploring external resources like Verywell Fit's Costco Food Court nutrition guide.
Conclusion
Costco's 5-cheese pizza is high in calories, fat, and sodium, with a single slice containing 699 to 760 calories. While tasty and affordable, it is not a health-conscious choice for frequent consumption and is best enjoyed in moderation. Awareness of the nutritional details allows for informed decisions while still enjoying an occasional slice.
