If you’re a pizza fanatic, then you have likely asked yourself at least once: “How many calories are in a slice of pizza?” You know that it’s likely an indulgent treat and not exactly the healthiest choice. But at the same time, everyone needs to indulge sometimes, right? So why does it feel like such an enigma – how do we even calculate the number of calories in a single slice? Well, wonder no more. In this blog post, we will finally answer your burning question on caloric intake and explore all things related to pizza nutrition. From discussing different types of pizzas to toppings – we’ll have you feeling confident about satisfying your next cheesy craving.

What Are Calories?
Before we dive into the specifics of pizza calories, let’s first understand what calories actually are. In simple terms, calories are a unit of measurement used to indicate the amount of energy in food and drinks. Our bodies require a certain number of calories each day to function properly – this is known as our daily caloric needs.
However, not all calories are created equal. Some foods, like fruits and vegetables, contain more nutrients and fiber than others, making them a healthier choice even if they have the same amount of calories as other foods. This means that it’s important to not only consider the number of calories in our food but also the nutritional value.
Why Does Pizza Have So Many Calories?
At the end of the day, pizza is a high-calorie food because it contains lots of fat and carbohydrates. The dough, cheese, and meats all contain fat that contributes to the calorie count. Additionally, the toppings add carbohydrates as well as sodium which can cause water retention. All these elements combined make pizza an indulgent treat – but that doesn’t mean you can never enjoy it again. With a few smart choices, you can still indulge in your favorite slice without breaking your diet or compromising on flavor.
How Many Calories Are In A Slice Of Pizza?
Now, let’s get down to the main question at hand – how many calories are in a slice of pizza? On average, one slice of pizza contains 250-350 calories. Pepperoni and cheese pizza typically has 260-280 kcal per slice. Meat lovers’ thin-crust pizza with additional cheese has 577 kcal per slice.
Factors That Influence Calorie Count In A Slice Of Pizza
Aside from the type of pizza and its toppings, there are other factors that can influence how many calories are in a slice of pizza. These include:
- Crust thickness: Thicker crusts will generally have more calories than thinner ones.
- Size of the slice: The bigger the slice, the more calories it will contain.
- Cooking method: Fried pizzas or deep-dish pizzas will typically have more calories than traditional oven-baked pizzas.
How To Determine How Many Calories Are In A Slice Of Pizza?
While there are general averages for the number of calories in a slice of pizza, it’s important to remember that these numbers are not set in stone. The best way to determine the exact amount of calories in a specific slice of pizza is to check the nutritional information provided by the restaurant or brand.
You can also use online calorie counters or smartphone apps to help track your caloric intake. These tools allow you to search for specific foods and their nutritional information, making it easier to keep track of your daily caloric needs.

Different Sizes Of Pizza Slices & Their Calories Count
Now, let’s get to the main event – pizza. The number of calories in a slice of pizza can vary greatly depending on the type of crust and toppings. Let’s break it down:
- Thin Crust Pizza: A thin-crust pizza with cheese toppings has an average of 170 calories per slice. A thin-crust pizza with sausage toppings has an average of 270 calories per slice.
- Thick Crust Pizza: A 14-inch thick-crust cheese pizza can have anywhere from 300-400 calories per slice. The thicker dough means more calories, but it also means more room for extra toppings.
- Deep-Dish Pizza: 14-inch deep-dish cheese pizza contains 270+ calories. One slice of pepperoni deep-dish pizza contains 275 calories.
Keep in mind that these numbers can vary depending on the size and thickness of the slices, as well as the specific ingredients used by different pizza places. It’s always best to check the nutritional information of your favorite pizza joint online if you want a more accurate calorie count.
Different Types Of Pizza Slices & Their Calories Count
Let’s take a closer look at the calorie counts for different types of pizzas:
- Cheese pizza: A single slice of plain cheese pizza contains 285 calories, on average. Toppings such as pepperoni, sausage, and extra cheese can increase the calorie count.
- Pepperoni pizza: A conventional slice of pepperoni pizza, on the other hand, typically has between 250 and 350 calories.
- Sausage pizza: A slice of sausage pizza can have around 350-550 calories, depending on the type and amount of sausage used.
- Vegetable pizza: The exact amount of calories will vary depending on the ingredients used, but a typical slice of veggie pizza contains around 250-350 calories.

Tips To Reduce The Calories In A Slice Of Pizza
While it’s hard to resist a delicious, cheesy slice of pizza, there are some ways to make it more calorie-friendly. Here are a few tips:
- Opt for thin-crust pizzas instead of deep-dish or stuffed crust.
- Load up on vegetable toppings instead of meat.
- Choose lean protein options like chicken or fish instead of high-fat meats like sausage or pepperoni.
- Go easy on the cheese and choose lower-fat options like feta or mozzarella.
Some Pizza Slices With Low Calories You Can Try
If you’re looking for some lower-calorie pizza options, here are a few to consider:
- Margherita pizza: This classic Italian pizza is made with fresh tomato sauce, basil, and mozzarella – keeping the calorie count around 250 per slice.
- Veggie pizza: Load up on veggies like peppers, onions, mushrooms, and spinach for a nutritious and lower-calorie slice.
- Chicken pizza: Choose a thin crust and top it with grilled chicken, veggies, and a light sprinkle of cheese for a filling yet lower-calorie option.
Remember, moderation is key when it comes to enjoying your favorite foods. By being mindful of portion sizes and making healthier topping choices, you can still indulge in a satisfying slice of pizza without going overboard on calories. Just remember to balance out your meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious options.

Conclusion: How Many Calories Are In A Slice Of Pizza?
Now you know how many calories are in a slice of pizza. The number of calories in a slice of pizza depends on what type of toppings and size you choose. Different brands offer widely varying calorie counts so make sure to double-check nutrition facts before ordering. With a few smart choices and moderation, pizza can still be enjoyed as part of a well-rounded diet. Just remember to opt for thin crusts, load up on veggies and lean proteins, and use part-skim cheese to keep calorie counts in check. Now go out and enjoy your favorite slices guilt-free.
FAQ: Calories in a slice of pizza
How many slices of pizza is 500 calories?
Two slices of pizza with cheese and tomato sauce contain roughly 450-500 kcal. Variables such as slice size and crust type can affect this estimate.
How many calories in a thin slice of Pizza Hut pizza?
A single slice (79.000g) of PIZZA HUT’s 14″ Cheese Pizza, with THIN ‘N CRISPY Crust, contains a total of 242 calories.
How many calories in a medium slice of Pizza Hut pizza?
One slice (81 g) of Pizza Hut’s 12″ Medium Pepperoni Only Classic Pizza contains 270 calories. The % Daily Value (DV) indicates the contribution of a nutrient in a serving towards a daily diet. The recommended daily intake is 2,000 calories for general nutrition advice.
How many calories in 1 slice of Little Caesars deep dish pepperoni pizza?
It contains approximately 360 calories.
How many calories in a slice of Little Caesars 3 meat pizza?
It contains approximately 340 calories.
How many calories is 1 slice of Domino’s Pizza?
The calorie count is 300 calories.
How many calories in a large slice of Domino’s Pizza?
One slice (121 g) of Domino’s Pizza Cheese Pizza (Large) contains 270 calories. The % Daily Value (DV) indicates the proportion of nutrients in a serving that contribute to a daily diet. It is recommended to consume 2,000 calories a day for general nutrition.
How many calories in a slice of Domino’s medium pizza?
It contains 200 calories.
How many calories are in a Domino’s thin slice?
It contains 210 calories.
How many calories is 1 slice of Costco pepperoni pizza?
A single slice of Costco’s Pepperoni Pizza packs a punch with a total of 68g of carbohydrates, 65g of net carbs, 24g of fat, and 34g of protein. Not to mention, it delivers a satisfying 620 calories.




Dana Packard is the Chef at Irish Setter Pub. Dana brings over 15 years of culinary experience to her position, and has worked in some of the most prestigious kitchens in the country. She is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, and is an accomplished chef with a passion for creating delicious, innovative dishes.
When she’s not in the kitchen, Dana enjoys spending time with her husband and two young children. She also loves animals, and has two dogs and a cat that she adores.