Nachos with cheese

Appetizer

Item Rating: 60/100

1 serving (250 grams) contains 662 calories, 11.4 grams of protein, 39.0 grams of fat, and 69.5 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (135g)

Calories		357.8
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		21.1 g	27%
	Saturated Fat	4.0 g	20%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	8.7 g
Cholesterol		6.8 mg	2%
Sodium		733.0 mg	31%
Total Carbohydrates		37.5 g	13%
	Dietary Fiber	2.7 g	9%
	Sugars	0.6 g
protein		6.2 g	12%
Vitamin D		5.4 mcg	27%
Calcium		114.8 mg	8%
Iron		1.2 mg	6%
Potassium		106.7 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.

USDA FoodData - Nachos with cheese Data

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Official nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.

View source →

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

🧈 High saturated fat

Source of Calories

Fat: 189 cal (52.1%)

Protein: 24 cal (6.8%)

Carbs: 150 cal (41.1%)

About Nachos with cheese

Nachos with cheese is a popular Tex-Mex dish, originally created in northern Mexico. Traditionally, it consists of tortilla chips topped with melted cheese and other optional toppings such as jalapeños, beans, guacamole, or salsa. Tortilla chips are primarily made from corn, providing complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, while cheese contributes protein and calcium. However, this dish can also be high in sodium and saturated fat, depending on portion size and additional toppings. It is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer but can be made more nutritionally balanced when loaded with vegetables or lean protein sources.

Health Benefits

• Cheese is a good source of calcium, supporting bone health and muscle function.
• Corn tortilla chips provide complex carbohydrates, offering sustained energy release.
• Nachos can be customized with vegetables like spinach or peppers, adding vitamin C and antioxidants to boost immune health.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains milk (from cheese), corn (in tortilla chips)

Suitable for: Vegetarian (if meatless toppings are used), gluten-free (if using certified gluten-free tortilla chips)

Not suitable for: Vegan (unless using dairy-free cheese), low-sodium diets (due to potential high sodium content)

Selection and Storage

Store any prepared nachos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven to maintain crispness, avoiding the microwave to prevent sogginess.

Common Questions About Nachos with cheese Nutrition

How many calories are in nachos with cheese?

A typical serving of nachos with cheese (about 10 chips with 2 ounces of melted cheese) contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on additional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or protein. The calorie content can vary significantly based on portion size and preparation methods.

Can I eat nachos with cheese on a keto diet?

Nachos with cheese are generally not suitable for keto diets due to the high carbohydrate content from tortilla chips. On average, a serving contains 30-40 grams of carbs, far exceeding the keto daily limit of 20-50 grams of net carbs. A keto-friendly alternative could involve using cheese crisps or pork rinds instead of tortilla chips.

Are nachos with cheese healthy?

While nachos with cheese provide some nutrients, such as calcium and protein from the cheese, they are typically high in saturated fat, sodium, and calories. Regular consumption can contribute to weight gain and increased cholesterol levels, making them best enjoyed occasionally rather than as a staple food.

What is a recommended serving size for nachos with cheese?

A recommended serving size for nachos with cheese is approximately 10 chips topped with 2 ounces of cheese. This portion keeps calories and sodium in moderate ranges while ensuring you can enjoy the dish without overeating. Adding vegetables or lean protein can make the meal more balanced.

How do nachos with cheese compare to plain tortilla chips?

Plain tortilla chips are lower in calories, fat, and sodium compared to nachos with cheese but lack the protein and calcium that cheese provides. While plain chips may be a lower-calorie option, they are also less filling. Opting for baked chips can reduce fat content if plain chips are chosen.

Data Sources & Scientific References

1. USDA FoodData - Nachos with cheese Data

   U.S. Department of Agriculture

   Official nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.

   View source →