Thin Crust vs. Other Domino's Crusts: The Calorie Breakdown
When comparing Domino's crust options, the thin crust consistently offers a lower calorie count primarily because it uses less dough. However, the exact calorie difference varies depending on the pizza size and toppings. The Hand Tossed crust, being thicker and chewier, naturally contains more dough and therefore more calories and carbohydrates. The Pan Pizza, which is thicker still and baked in a pan with extra oil, typically has the highest calorie and fat content. The Brooklyn Style crust, which is stretched thin but not as crispy as the thin crust, also falls somewhere between the Hand Tossed and thin crust in terms of calories.
Factors That Impact a Pizza's Calorie Count
While the crust choice is a significant factor, it's not the only one that determines a pizza's nutritional value. Toppings, cheese, and portion size all play crucial roles.
- Toppings: The biggest calorie culprit on any pizza is often the topping selection. Processed meats like pepperoni, sausage, and bacon are high in fat and sodium, while vegetable toppings are low in calories and add valuable nutrients and fiber. For instance, a thin crust pizza loaded with extra pepperoni can easily have more calories than a Hand Tossed pizza with only veggies.
- Cheese: The amount and type of cheese are also major factors. Extra cheese boosts calories and fat significantly, while asking for light cheese can make a noticeable difference.
- Portion Size: Even with a low-calorie thin crust, overeating can quickly add up. A standard serving size is typically one or two slices, so mindful portion control is essential for managing your caloric intake.
Making Your Domino's Order Healthier
If you're looking to enjoy a Domino's pizza while keeping it on the healthier side, the following strategies can help:
- Opt for thin crust. This is the most direct way to reduce the base calorie and carbohydrate count of your meal. The crunchy, crispy texture is also a great way to feel satisfied with less.
- Pile on the veggies. Vegetables add flavor, fiber, and nutrients without adding a lot of calories. Options like spinach, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers are excellent choices.
- Go easy on the cheese. Requesting a smaller portion of cheese is a simple yet effective tactic for cutting down on fat and calories.
- Choose leaner proteins. If you must have meat, select leaner options like grilled chicken instead of high-fat processed meats.
- Pair it with a salad. Complementing your pizza with a side salad (with a light dressing) can help you feel full faster, reducing the number of pizza slices you consume.
Calorie Comparison: Domino's Thin Crust vs. Hand Tossed (Cheese Pizza)
The following table illustrates a general comparison between a slice of cheese pizza on a thin crust and a hand tossed crust, using data from reliable nutritional sources.
| Feature | 14" Thin Crust Cheese Slice (approx.) | 14" Hand Tossed Cheese Slice (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~123 kcal | ~272 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~11g | ~37g |
| Total Fat | ~6.6g | ~8.9g |
| Protein | ~5g | ~11.6g |
| Sodium | ~194mg | ~507mg |
Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific market, preparation methods, and ingredient differences.
Conclusion
Yes, Domino's thin crust is definitively lower in calories than its Hand Tossed and Pan Pizza counterparts due to a smaller amount of dough. For a lighter meal, choosing the thin crust is a smart starting point. However, true calorie savings and improved nutrition come from being mindful of your toppings and portion size. By loading up on vegetables, limiting high-fat meats and cheese, and practicing moderation, you can make a pizza from Domino's a more balanced part of your diet.
What's the Difference Between Thin Crust and Hand Tossed?
The primary difference is the dough. Thin crust is rolled out much flatter, resulting in a crispy, cracker-like texture. Hand Tossed dough is thicker, chewier, and has a more bread-like texture, leading to a higher calorie and carb count.
How many calories in Domino's thin crust?
The calories in Domino's thin crust depend on the size and toppings. A single slice of a 14-inch thin crust cheese pizza contains approximately 123 calories.
Is thin crust pizza healthier than deep dish?
Yes, thin crust pizza is almost always healthier than deep dish because it uses significantly less dough and less oil. The deep dish style is also loaded with more cheese, sauce, and toppings, which further increases the calorie count.
How can I further reduce calories on a Domino's thin crust pizza?
To further reduce calories, you can ask for light cheese, load up on low-calorie vegetable toppings, and choose a leaner protein like grilled chicken. Pairing your meal with a side salad is also a great option.
What's the difference between Domino's Crunchy Thin Crust and Brooklyn Style?
The Brooklyn Style crust is stretched thinner than the Hand Tossed but is not as crispy as the Crunchy Thin Crust. Brooklyn Style is meant to be folded when eaten, while the Thin Crust is crispier and holds its shape more firmly.
Does the pizza sauce affect the calorie count much?
Compared to the crust and toppings, the standard pizza sauce has a relatively low impact on the total calorie count. However, some specialty sauces, like Alfredo or garlic parm, can add significant calories and fat.
Is Domino's thin crust lower in carbs?
Yes, because it uses less dough, Domino's thin crust is also lower in carbohydrates than the Hand Tossed or Pan Pizza options.
What are the healthiest toppings for a Domino's pizza?
The healthiest toppings are vegetables, including spinach, onions, mushrooms, green peppers, and tomatoes. For protein, grilled chicken is a good lean option.
