How much protein is in a Costco frozen pizza?

October 24, 2025 •

4 min read

According to nutritional data, a single serving of a Costco Kirkland Signature frozen cheese pizza contains approximately 13 grams of protein. However, the total protein content varies significantly depending on the pizza type, toppings, and serving size, making it important to examine the labels closely.

Quick Summary

The protein content of a Costco frozen pizza varies by flavor, with the cheese pizza having around 13 grams per serving while pepperoni and other varieties can offer more. Key factors influencing the total protein include the amount of cheese and meat toppings used. Evaluating the official nutrition label is the most reliable way to confirm macronutrient information for specific products.

Key Points

Base Protein: The standard Kirkland Signature frozen cheese pizza contains approximately 13g of protein per serving.
Topping Impact: Pepperoni pizza varieties offer more protein, ranging from 17g to 18g per serving, due to the added meat.
Serving Size Matters: The total protein you consume depends on your portion size; the nutritional data is based on a single, standardized serving.
Different Products: Nutrition varies between different Kirkland pizza products, such as thin-crust versus deep-dish, so check the specific label.
Homemade Boost: You can increase the protein easily by adding extra lean meat, cheese, or plant-based protein toppings.
Label is Key: Always check the nutrition facts panel on the package for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Unpacking the Protein Content of Costco's Frozen Pizzas

When it comes to the frozen food aisle, Costco's Kirkland Signature pizzas are a staple for many households. Beyond the convenience and taste, many consumers are curious about the nutritional value, specifically how much protein is in a Costco frozen pizza. The answer is not one-size-fits-all, as the protein count changes based on the type of pizza and the size of the serving. Understanding these differences can help you make a more informed choice for your dietary needs.

Kirkland Signature Cheese Pizza Protein Breakdown

The Kirkland Signature frozen cheese pizza is a classic for a reason. Its high cheese content contributes significantly to its protein count. Based on nutritional information, a single serving (which is typically one-quarter or one-sixth of the entire pizza, depending on the packaging) contains around 13 grams of protein. This is a solid amount for a frozen meal and is primarily derived from the whole milk mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan cheeses layered on the pie.

To break it down further, here is what contributes to the protein:

Cheese: The main source of protein. The Kirkland Signature cheese pizza uses a blend of whole milk mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan cheeses, all of which are protein-rich ingredients.
Crust: The pizza crust, made from enriched wheat flour, also adds a few grams of protein to the total.

Kirkland Signature Pepperoni Pizza Protein Breakdown

For those who prefer a meatier option, the pepperoni pizza naturally offers a higher protein count. The addition of pepperoni, which is made from pork, chicken, and beef, boosts the overall protein per serving. A thin-crust pepperoni pizza from Kirkland Signature contains approximately 17 grams of protein per serving. Other variations, like the take-and-bake pepperoni pizza, can contain around 18 grams per serving. This makes the pepperoni variety a more protein-dense choice than the standard cheese pizza.

Comparing Kirkland Frozen Pizzas and Food Court Pizza

It's important to distinguish between Costco's in-store food court pizza and their Kirkland Signature frozen pizzas, as the nutrition can vary significantly. Some online sources and user reports have suggested that the food court pizza may contain a surprisingly high amount of protein due to a very generous amount of cheese. However, official nutritional data for the frozen pizzas, which is often more accessible and standardized, shows a more moderate protein level. Always consult the specific product label for the most accurate information.

Factors Influencing Protein Content

Several elements can influence the total protein you get from a frozen pizza:

Toppings: A pizza with added meat, like pepperoni or sausage, will have a higher protein content than a plain cheese or vegetable pizza. Extra cheese also increases the protein.
Crust Type: A thin crust pizza might have a different protein-to-carb ratio than a deep-dish pizza, though the primary source of protein is still the cheese and meat.
Serving Size: The designated serving size on a frozen pizza package is often a fraction of the whole pizza. Your personal portion size will directly determine your total protein intake. For example, eating half the pizza will double the listed protein per serving.
Preparation Method: While less common, certain cooking methods can subtly alter nutritional values, although this is generally not a significant factor for protein content.

How to Boost the Protein in Your Frozen Pizza

If you are looking to increase the protein in your Costco frozen pizza, there are several simple additions you can make:

Add cooked, shredded chicken or grilled steak.
Top with extra low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese.
Crumble a small amount of lean ground beef or turkey over the top before baking.
Incorporate high-protein plant-based toppings like beans, lentils, or tofu (if they align with the pizza's flavor profile).
Sprinkle a handful of nutritional yeast for a nutty, cheesy flavor boost with added protein.

Comparison Table: Costco Frozen Pizza Protein


Pizza Type	Approximate Protein Per Serving	Notes
Kirkland Signature Cheese Pizza	13g	Protein primarily from whole milk mozzarella and other cheeses.
Kirkland Signature Thin Crust Pepperoni Pizza	17g	Increased protein due to the addition of pepperoni.
Kirkland Signature Take & Bake Pepperoni	18g	Higher protein content compared to other pepperoni varieties.
Kirkland Cauliflower Crust Supreme	Varies	Protein can be significant depending on the specific toppings used.

Conclusion

While not a primary protein source for a strictly-controlled diet, a Costco frozen pizza provides a moderate amount of protein, especially the pepperoni varieties. The cheese pizza offers a solid 13 grams per serving, while the pepperoni can be slightly higher. For a significant protein boost, consider adding extra lean meats or high-protein plant-based toppings. As always, for the most accurate information, checking the nutrition label on the specific product is the best approach.
Check out the nutritional facts for Kirkland products directly on the Costco website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the protein content differs. The Kirkland frozen cheese pizza contains approximately 13 grams of protein per serving, while the pepperoni versions typically have a higher protein count due to the added meat toppings, often around 17-18 grams per serving.

The primary sources of protein are the cheeses (whole milk mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan) and any meat toppings, such as pepperoni. The enriched wheat flour in the crust also contributes a smaller amount of protein.

No, the protein count is not the same. It varies based on the type of pizza (e.g., cheese, pepperoni, supreme), the crust type (e.g., thin crust), and the size of the portion you consume. Always read the nutritional label for the specific product.

You can increase the protein by adding extra toppings before baking. Options include cooked, shredded chicken, extra part-skim mozzarella cheese, lean ground beef, or plant-based protein sources like beans.

Yes, the protein content can be very different. The food court pizza is made fresh and often contains a significantly more generous amount of cheese than the frozen version. User reports indicate a much higher protein count per food court slice.

The serving size is determined by the manufacturer and is indicated on the nutrition facts label. For the Kirkland frozen cheese pizza, a serving is typically 1/6th of the pie, but it can vary by product, so it's best to check the package.

For a processed frozen meal, Costco pizza contains a moderate amount of protein, particularly the meat-topped versions. However, it is also high in other macronutrients like carbohydrates and fats, and should be balanced within a varied diet rather than relied upon as a primary protein source.