How much protein is in a 14-inch pizza?

December 19, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the USDA, a standard slice of cheese pizza from a typical fast-food chain contains around 12 grams of protein. When scaled up, this provides a starting point for determining how much protein is in a 14-inch pizza, but the final amount is highly dependent on toppings and crust type.

Quick Summary

A 14-inch pizza's protein content varies significantly based on toppings, crust, and cheese quantity, but typically ranges from 70 to over 150 grams per whole pie. The majority of protein comes from cheese and meat toppings, while crust and sauce contribute smaller amounts. Customization is key to boosting your intake.

Key Points

Variable Protein Content: The amount of protein in a 14-inch pizza is not fixed and depends on the specific ingredients chosen, particularly the toppings and crust.
Toppings Matter Most: High-protein toppings like lean meats (chicken, turkey pepperoni) and specific plant-based options are the most effective way to significantly boost the pizza's total protein count.
Cheese is a Key Source: The mozzarella and other cheeses used on the pizza are a major contributor to its protein content, making extra cheese a simple way to increase protein.
Crust Type Influences Base Protein: Choosing a higher-protein crust, such as one made with whole wheat or bread flour, increases the baseline protein of the pizza.
Strategic Ordering: You can customize your pizza to meet specific protein goals by choosing the right crust, adding extra cheese, and selecting lean, high-protein toppings.
Whole Pizza vs. Per Slice: Protein amounts are often listed per slice, so it's important to multiply by the number of slices (typically 8 for a 14-inch pizza) to calculate the total protein for the entire pie.

Understanding the Protein in Your 14-Inch Pizza

The protein content of a 14-inch pizza is not a single, fixed number; it's a variable that depends entirely on its ingredients. While the cheesy base provides a significant protein source, the type and quantity of toppings can cause the total amount to skyrocket or remain modest. A pizza divided into 8 slices offers a clear way to break down the total protein per serving. For a baseline cheese pizza, the total protein for the whole pie might average around 90–100 grams, but adding multiple high-protein toppings can easily push that figure over 150 grams.

The Protein Contribution of Base Ingredients

Crust: The dough itself offers a foundational level of protein. The type of flour used is a major factor. For instance, high-protein bread flour (12-14% protein) will yield a more protein-rich crust than all-purpose flour (9-11%). Some specialty crusts, like those made with whole wheat or vital wheat gluten, can further increase the protein content.
Cheese: Mozzarella and other cheeses are primary protein sources on any pizza. The amount of protein correlates directly with how much cheese is loaded on. A high-quality, part-skim mozzarella will provide a substantial protein punch compared to a low-fat or alternative cheese substitute.
Sauce: The tomato sauce contributes a negligible amount of protein, but its impact is minimal compared to the other main components. However, some artisan or homemade sauces with added ingredients could slightly alter the total.

How Toppings Influence Protein Levels

Adding toppings is the most effective way to modify the protein count of your pizza. Each ingredient adds to the overall nutritional profile, but some are far more protein-dense than others.

Meat Toppings: This category offers the most significant protein increase. Pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and chicken are all protein powerhouses. For example, adding an extra helping of pepperoni can boost the per-slice protein by several grams. Specialty meats like shredded beef or Canadian bacon also add substantial protein.
Plant-Based Toppings: While meat is the classic protein booster, don't underestimate vegetables and legumes. Toppings like mushrooms, spinach, and even olives contribute small amounts of protein and fiber. For a larger protein impact, consider toppings like sliced chicken sausage or specific plant-based protein alternatives.

Comparison of 14-Inch Pizza Protein by Topping


Topping Combination	Estimated Total Protein (Whole 14-inch Pizza)	Protein Source Notes
Plain Cheese	80–100g	Primarily from mozzarella cheese and the dough.
Pepperoni	100–120g	Cheese + pepperoni. Amount varies with pepperoni brand and quantity.
Meat Lover's	130–160g+	A mix of pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and Canadian bacon for maximum protein.
Margherita	70–90g	Cheese protein plus a minimal amount from tomatoes and basil.
Veggie Supreme	90–110g	Cheese plus modest protein from mushrooms, peppers, and other vegetables.

How to Create a High-Protein 14-Inch Pizza

Start with the Right Dough: Opt for a whole wheat crust or one enhanced with vital wheat gluten for a stronger protein base.
Double Down on Cheese: Ask for extra cheese. Part-skim mozzarella is a solid choice, and a mix of cheeses can add flavor and protein.
Load Up on Lean Meats: Prioritize lean protein sources like chicken, turkey pepperoni, or Canadian bacon over fattier options.
Add Plant Proteins: Incorporate chickpeas, black beans, or other legumes for an extra protein boost. For a truly high-protein option, consider a chicken crust pizza recipe.
Utilize Protein-Boosting Sauces: While a minor contributor, a pesto sauce (made with nuts) or a homemade sauce with nutritional yeast can slightly increase the protein count.

Conclusion: Tailoring Your Protein Intake

In summary, the protein content of a 14-inch pizza is highly customizable. A basic cheese pizza provides a decent amount of protein, mainly from the cheese and crust. However, adding high-protein ingredients like various meats or specific plant-based options can significantly increase the total. For those aiming to maximize their protein intake, selecting a high-protein crust, doubling the cheese, and adding lean meat toppings is the best strategy. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast tracking macros or simply curious about your meal, understanding these variables allows you to make informed decisions and enjoy a delicious, protein-packed slice.

Example High-Protein Pizza Build

Crust: Whole Wheat with Vital Wheat Gluten
Sauce: Standard Tomato Sauce
Cheese: Double Layer Part-Skim Mozzarella
Toppings: Chicken breast, Turkey Pepperoni, Canadian Bacon
Result: This combination could push the total protein content well beyond 150 grams for the entire 14-inch pie.

By strategically selecting your ingredients, a 14-inch pizza can be transformed from a simple meal into a substantial and satisfying protein source.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary protein source in a cheese pizza is the cheese itself, typically mozzarella. The crust also contributes a foundational level of protein, depending on the type of flour used.

Yes, a 14-inch pizza can be a very high-protein meal. By adding generous amounts of high-protein toppings like chicken, sausage, and multiple types of cheese, the total protein can easily exceed 150 grams.

A pepperoni pizza slice generally has more protein than a standard cheese slice. A cheese slice contains around 12g of protein, while a pepperoni slice contains around 13g or more due to the added meat.

Yes, the type of crust significantly affects protein content. A crust made from high-protein flour, such as bread flour or whole wheat, will have more protein than one made from lower-protein, all-purpose flour.

To increase your pizza's protein, you can add extra cheese, choose lean meat toppings like chicken or turkey pepperoni, or even opt for a specialized protein-enhanced crust.

For plant-based protein, you can add toppings like mushrooms, spinach, and olives. For a more significant boost, consider toppings like sliced chicken sausage or specific plant-based meat alternatives.

From a total nutritional standpoint, a larger pizza will have more total protein simply due to its size. However, the protein per slice is a more relevant measure for portion control.