1 serving (102 grams) contains 289 calories, 12.4 grams of protein, 11.8 grams of fat, and 33.3 grams of carbohydrates.
Log this food in SnapCalorie
Nutrition Information
Calories |
283 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 11.6 g | 14% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.8 g | 29% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 32 mg | 10% | |
| Sodium | 807 mg | 35% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 32.6 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.4 g | 5% | |
| Sugars | 5.7 g | ||
| protein | 12.2 g | 24% | |
| Vitamin D | 108 mcg | 540% | |
| Calcium | 690 mg | 53% | |
| Iron | 2.4 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 190 mg | 4% | |
* 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
Source of Calories
About Grilled cheese
Grilled cheese is a classic comfort food with origins traced back to Ancient Roman times, with its modern version popularized in American cuisine during the 1920s following the invention of pre-sliced bread and processed cheese. It is typically made by layering melted cheese between slices of bread that are toasted to golden perfection using butter or oil. Depending on ingredients used, it can be a source of carbohydrates, fats, and protein. A standard grilled cheese sandwich provides about 400-500 calories, 10-15 grams of protein (from the cheese), and varying amounts of calcium, sodium, and saturated fats depending on cheese type and preparation.
Health Benefits
- Provides calcium for bone health, as one slice of cheddar offers about 200 mg calcium (~20% of daily needs).
- Supplies protein essential for muscle repair, with approximately 10-15 grams per serving from cheese.
- Contains carbohydrates from bread, which serve as the body's primary energy source.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Consume freshly made for optimal texture and flavor. If storing, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheat in a pan or oven for crispness.
Common Questions About Grilled cheese Nutrition
How many calories and how much protein does a grilled cheese sandwich have?
A typical grilled cheese sandwich made with two slices of white bread and two slices of cheddar cheese contains approximately 400-500 calories and about 15 grams of protein. The nutritional content can vary depending on the type of bread, cheese, and whether butter or oil is used for cooking.
Is grilled cheese compatible with a keto diet?
Grilled cheese can be made keto-friendly by replacing regular bread with low-carb bread or a cheese-based alternative, and using high-fat cheese varieties. The standard grilled cheese made with traditional bread is too high in carbohydrates for a typical keto diet.
What are the health benefits and concerns of eating grilled cheese?
Grilled cheese provides calcium and protein from the cheese, which supports bone health and muscle repair. However, it can be high in saturated fats and sodium, especially if made with processed cheese and butter, which could contribute to heart health concerns when consumed in excess.
What is the recommended serving size for a grilled cheese sandwich?
A standard serving size for a grilled cheese is one sandwich, typically made with two slices of bread and one to two slices of cheese. Portion sizes should be adjusted based on individual dietary needs or calorie goals.
How does grilled cheese compare to a ham and cheese sandwich in nutrition?
Grilled cheese typically has slightly fewer calories and protein than a ham and cheese sandwich, as it lacks the added lean protein from the ham. A ham and cheese sandwich on whole-grain bread might offer more balanced nutrition due to additional fiber and protein while grilled cheese often has more fat due to butter or oil in the preparation.
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.
- USDA FoodData - Grilled cheese DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
- Calcium: Fact Sheet for ConsumersNIH Office of Dietary SupplementsExplains calcium content in dairy products like cheese, which contributes significantly to bone health.
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.
