Fried cheese

Fried cheese

Appetizer

Item Rating: 39/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 400 calories, 15.0 grams of protein, 30.0 grams of fat, and 20.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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961.5
calories
36.1
protein
48.1
carbohydrates
72.1
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (240.4g)
Calories
961.5
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 72.1 g 92%
Saturated Fat 36.1 g 180%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 144.2 mg 48%
Sodium 1923.1 mg 83%
Total Carbohydrates 48.1 g 17%
Dietary Fiber 0 g 0%
Sugars 2.4 g
protein 36.1 g 72%
Vitamin D 120.2 mcg 601%
Calcium 961.5 mg 73%
Iron 1.2 mg 6%
Potassium 120.2 mg 2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🥓 Keto friendly
🍯 Low sugar
⚠️ Contains trans fat
🧈 High saturated fat
🥩 High protein
🍞 Low carbs

Source of Calories

19.5%
14.6%
65.8%
Fat: 648 cal (65.8%)
Protein: 144 cal (14.6%)
Carbs: 192 cal (19.5%)

About Fried cheese

Fried cheese is a dish made by deep-frying or pan-frying cheese until it develops a crispy outer layer while maintaining a soft, gooey interior. This dish has roots in various cuisines, including Greek (saganaki), Italian (mozzarella sticks), and Latin American (queso frito), among others. Its nutritional profile varies depending on the type of cheese used, but cheese is typically rich in protein, calcium, and fat. Fried cheese generally has higher calorie content due to added oils during cooking. For example, a 100-gram serving of fried cheese typically contains around 350-400 calories, 20-25 grams of protein, and high levels of saturated fat, making it an energy-heavy snack or appetizer.

Health Benefits

  • Excellent source of calcium, supporting strong bones and teeth (20-30% of daily calcium needs per 100g).
  • Rich in high-quality protein, aiding in muscle repair and growth (20-25g protein per 100g).
  • Contains fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin A, which supports vision and immune health.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains milk
Suitable for: Vegetarian (if cheese uses non-animal rennet)
Not suitable for: Vegan, lactose intolerant, low-fat diets, low-sodium diets

Selection and Storage

Fried cheese is best consumed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Common Questions About Fried cheese Nutrition

Is fried cheese high in protein?

Yes, fried cheese is relatively high in protein due to the cheese content. For example, a 1-ounce serving of fried mozzarella sticks can provide about 6–7 grams of protein, depending on the type of cheese and breading used. However, the frying process does not affect the protein but may add extra calories from fat.

Can I eat fried cheese on a keto diet?

Yes, fried cheese can be keto-friendly if prepared without traditional breading. You can use almond flour or pork rind crumbs as a low-carb coating to keep it suitable for a keto diet, as traditional breading can add too many carbohydrates. Always check the recipe or nutritional information to ensure it aligns with your daily carb limit.

Is fried cheese healthy or bad for you?

Fried cheese can be enjoyed in moderation but may not be the healthiest choice due to its high calorie and saturated fat content. A typical serving of fried cheese can range between 150–300 calories and contain 10–20 grams of fat. Excessive consumption of fried foods can contribute to weight gain and cardiovascular issues, so balance it with other nutrient-rich foods.

What is the recommended portion size for fried cheese?

A recommended portion size for fried cheese is about 1–2 ounces (roughly 2–4 pieces of mozzarella sticks or similar). This keeps the serving at around 150–200 calories, providing some protein without excessive fat or calorie intake. Pair it with a side of fresh vegetables or a salad for a balanced snack.

How does fried cheese compare to baked cheese?

Fried cheese typically has higher calorie and fat content due to the use of oil during frying. Baked cheese, on the other hand, can be a lighter alternative as it avoids oil, while still providing a similar cheesy flavor and texture. If you're looking for a healthier option, baked cheese snacks may be a better choice.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

  1. Calcium: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals
    NIH Office of Dietary Supplements
    Explains the importance of calcium, a key nutrient in cheese, and its role in health, including bones and cardiovascular function.
  2. A review of cheese and its health effects
    Journal of Dairy Science
    Analyzes cheese consumption and health effects, including nutrient density, microbial content, and potential health risks of fried variants.
  3. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025
    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and USDA
    Discusses cheese as part of the dairy food group, its nutritional contributions, and serving recommendations for a healthy diet.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.