How many calories in Papa John's 6 cheese cheesesticks? Your guide to nutritional facts

October 26, 2025 •

3 min read

According to Papa John's nutritional information, a single stick from their 12-inch Tuscan 6-Cheese Cheesesticks contains 130 calories. Understanding the answer to 'How many calories in Papa John's 6 cheese cheesesticks?' is the first step toward making informed decisions and enjoying your favorite foods responsibly within a balanced nutrition diet.

Quick Summary

This article explores the nutritional details of Papa John's Tuscan 6-Cheese Cheesesticks, breaking down the calorie counts for different sizes. It examines macronutrient content, sodium levels, and the impact of dipping sauces. Guidance is provided on how to practice portion control for occasional indulgence.

Key Points

Calorie Count Varies by Size: A single 10-inch stick contains 110 calories, while a 12-inch stick has 130 calories, a crucial distinction for tracking intake.
High in Fat and Sodium: Beyond calories, cheesesticks are rich in fat (41-43% of macros) and contain high levels of sodium, a common trait in fast-food sides.
Whole Order Adds Up: A full order, containing 14 to 16 sticks, represents a significant portion of a person's daily recommended calories, fat, and sodium.
Sauces Increase Calorie Intake: Pairing cheesesticks with dipping sauces significantly increases the total calorie, fat, and sodium intake, and should be considered during tracking.
Mindful Indulgence is Key: Enjoying treats like cheesesticks in moderation with careful portion control and balancing with healthier meals is the best approach for a sustainable diet.
Check Nutrition Information: For precise and current data, refer to the official nutritional information on the Papa John's website.

The Calorie and Nutrient Breakdown of Papa John's 6-Cheese Cheesesticks

When ordering a side dish from a popular restaurant like Papa John's, it's beneficial to be aware of the nutritional value of your selection. While delicious, the Tuscan 6-Cheese Cheesesticks are a high-calorie, high-sodium item. The total calorie count varies depending on the size of the order you choose, as they are available in different lengths.

Size Matters: 10-Inch vs. 12-Inch Cheesesticks

Papa John's offers their cheesesticks in two main sizes, and the nutritional content changes with each. Knowing the difference per stick is crucial for accurate calorie counting.

10-inch Cheesesticks: A single stick from the smaller order contains approximately 110 calories. An entire order, which typically includes 14 sticks, adds up quickly. With 5g of total fat, 2.5g of saturated fat, and 250mg of sodium per stick, the numbers multiply significantly with every serving.
12-inch Cheesesticks: The larger version has a higher calorie count per stick, at 130 calories. An order of 12-inch cheesesticks contains 16 sticks, making the total nutritional impact even greater. Each stick also has 6g of total fat, 3g of saturated fat, and a notable 310mg of sodium.

Beyond Calories: A Deeper Look at Macronutrients

While calories provide a headline figure, understanding the macronutrient profile gives a more complete picture. The cheesesticks are composed primarily of carbohydrates and fats, with a moderate amount of protein.

For the 12-inch version, the macronutrient breakdown per stick is roughly 41% carbohydrates, 43% fat, and 16% protein. The primary ingredients listed on Papa John's website for the Tuscan 6-Cheese Cheesesticks are fresh dough, special garlic sauce, a blend of six cheeses (parmesan, romano, asiago, provolone, fontina, and mozzarella), and Italian seasoning. The richness comes from the cheese and garlic sauce, which also contributes to the high fat and sodium content.

Nutritional Comparison: Papa John's Cheesesticks


Nutrient (per stick)	10-inch Cheesesticks	12-inch Cheesesticks
Calories	110 kcal	130 kcal
Total Fat	5g	6g
Saturated Fat	2.5g	3g
Sodium	250mg	310mg
Total Carbohydrate	11g	13g
Dietary Fiber	0g	1g
Sugars	1g	1g
Protein	4g	5g

The Impact of Dipping Sauces

It is common to pair cheesesticks with dipping sauces, but it is important to remember that these add-ons come with their own nutritional consequences. A single cup of Papa John's Original Pizza Dipping Sauce, for example, can contribute additional calories, fat, and sodium. For those watching their intake, opting for less sauce or no sauce at all can help manage the overall nutritional impact of the snack.

Integrating Treats into a Balanced Diet

Enjoying items like cheesesticks doesn't mean you have to derail your nutritional goals. It's all about balance, awareness, and making strategic choices.

Here are some tips for incorporating indulgent items into your diet:

Practice Portion Control: Instead of eating the entire order, split it with friends or family. Decide on a set number of sticks to eat and stick to it. This helps you enjoy the flavor without overdoing it on calories and fat.
Count It In: If you plan on having cheesesticks, incorporate them into your daily calorie budget. You might opt for a lighter meal earlier in the day to make room for the treat.
Balance Your Meals: Pair the cheesesticks with a healthier side, like a fresh salad. This adds vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your meal, helping you feel fuller and more satisfied.
Hydrate Strategically: Drink water with your meal instead of high-calorie, sugary beverages. This can also help you feel full and combat the high sodium content.
Choose Wisely: Compare nutritional facts for different items on the menu. Perhaps the regular cheesesticks are a better choice for your goals than the stuffed version, which packs more calories per stick.

By being mindful of your intake and balancing your choices, you can enjoy these sides without compromising your healthy eating habits.

Conclusion: Making Informed Choices

Understanding how many calories in Papa John's 6 cheese cheesesticks and other nutritional information is essential for maintaining a healthy diet. A single stick, depending on the size, can contain between 110 and 130 calories, along with considerable fat and sodium. A full order represents a significant caloric intake, especially when dipping sauces are included. By practicing portion control, making conscious decisions, and balancing your diet, you can enjoy these treats in moderation while staying on track with your overall nutritional goals. It's all about awareness and integrating your favorite indulgences intelligently into your lifestyle.

For the most up-to-date nutritional information, visit Papa John's official website.

Frequently Asked Questions

A single stick of Papa John's Tuscan 6-Cheese Cheesesticks contains either 110 calories for the 10-inch order or 130 calories for the 12-inch order.

A full order consists of multiple sticks. A 10-inch order typically has 14 sticks, summing up to 1,540 calories. A 12-inch order has 16 sticks, totaling 2,080 calories.

The sodium content per stick is 250mg for the 10-inch version and 310mg for the 12-inch version. A full order contains a substantial amount of sodium, nearing or exceeding the daily recommended limit.

While delicious, the cheesesticks are a high-calorie, high-fat, and high-sodium food, and are not considered a healthy snack. They are best enjoyed as an occasional treat in moderation within a balanced diet.

Dipping sauces like the Original Pizza Dipping Sauce add extra calories, fat, and sodium to the meal. For example, a single cup of pizza sauce can contain around 30 calories and 420mg of sodium, adding to the overall nutritional impact.

To reduce calories and fat, you can practice portion control by sharing the order. You can also opt for no dipping sauce or a smaller amount, and pair it with a low-calorie side like a salad.

The cheesesticks are made with fresh dough, special garlic sauce, and a blend of six cheeses: parmesan, romano, asiago, provolone, fontina, and cheese from mozzarella. They are finished with Italian seasoning.