Pizza is like the ultimate feel-good food, right?
From parties to random weeknights, it’s always there for us.
And anyone who shops at Costco knows they got the best pizza deal ever! A huge slice for like nothing.
But sometimes we gotta stop and think – how healthy is it really? What are we actually putting in our bodies?
This time, let’s talk about Costco pizza nutrition facts.
Let’s Start with The Basics
Costco’s food court is legendary, and its pizza is no exception. But behind that cheesy, crispy crust lies a web of nutritional facts and figures. Let’s break it down.
Calories
You might be munching on a slice of heaven, but how many calories are you actually consuming?
- Cheese Pizza: A slice of cheese pizza from Costco contains about 700 calories. Yes, you read that right. That’s approximately 1/3 of an average adult’s recommended daily intake!
- Pepperoni Pizza: Craving some meat? A slice of Costco’s pepperoni pizza clocks in at around 720 calories.
- Combo Pizza: For those who want a bit of everything, the combo pizza, loaded with vegetables and meats, has roughly 760 calories per slice.
Now, if you’re thinking, “It’s just one slice; how bad can it be?” Well, remember, Costco slices are generously sized!
Fat
Beyond calories, it’s essential to consider the fat content, as this plays a crucial role in your overall health.
- Cheese Pizza: This contains approximately 28 grams of total fat, of which about 14 grams are saturated fat.
- Pepperoni Pizza: The meaty slice has about 29 grams of total fat, with 15 grams being saturated fat.
- Combo Pizza: As the heaviest slice, the combo pizza boasts around 30 grams of total fat, with 15 grams of saturated fat.
Carbs and Proteins
Carbs fuel our bodies, while protein helps with muscle repair and growth. So, where does Costco pizza stand in this arena?
- Cheese Pizza: A slice offers you 85 grams of carbs and 44 grams of protein.
- Pepperoni Pizza: This variant gives you 86 grams of carbs and 44 grams of protein.
- Combo Pizza: The loaded slice provides a whopping 88 grams of carbs and 44 grams of protein.
Other Ingredients
It’s not just about numbers but about understanding the ingredients that contribute to these numbers.
The Crust
The base of any pizza, the crust, is crucial in determining its nutritional value.
- Flour: Costco uses high-gluten flour, which gives the crust its characteristic chewy texture. However, gluten can cause digestive issues for some individuals.
- Olive Oil: A primary ingredient, olive oil is a healthier fat option, rich in monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health. However, the amount used can significantly contribute to the pizza’s total calorie and fat content.
- Yeast and Salt: These are used in moderate quantities, but those watching their sodium intake should be mindful.
The Cheese
A pizza without cheese is like a fish without water. But what does this melty goodness bring to the table?
- Mozzarella: Costco uses whole milk mozzarella, which is creamy and delicious but also comes with higher fat and calorie content.
- Parmesan and Provolone: These cheeses add depth to the flavor but also add to the calorie count.
The Toppings
These can make or break the nutritional aspect of the pizza.
- Vegetables: Ingredients like bell peppers, olives, and onions add minimal calories but are a source of essential vitamins and minerals.
- Meats: Pepperoni and sausage are protein-rich but also come with added fats and salts.
So, It Is Healthy?
Instead of two slices, stick with just one and fill up on the salad. It’s still a treat, but way better for you.
And for sure, skip the soda pop – it just adds on the sugar. Water is always the better choice cause it fills you up without any empty calories. Plus it helps digest the heavy pizza too.
The key is all about moderation. You can totally have Costco pizza as a snack or meal, just listen to your body and don’t go overboard.
Final Words
As long as most of the time you’re filling up on nutritious stuff, an occasional treat here and there won’t hurt. Don’t stress too much about it. Just pay attention to portion sizes and how you feel.
We’ve recently written about the comparison of Domino’s Brooklyn Style vs. Hand Tossed pizza, so make sure to check it out to find out which flavor would suit you best!
