How Many Calories in Provolone Cheese? Nutrition Facts & Macros
28 g (1 slice) of provolone cheese has 98 calories
Protein 7.2g · Carbs 0.6g · Fat 7.5g
Provolone is a semi-hard Italian cheese that originated in Southern Italy, particularly the Campania region, before spreading to the Po Valley in the north during the 19th century. It belongs to the pasta filata (stretched-curd) family, the same technique used for mozzarella, which gives it its smooth, elastic texture. Per 100 g, provolone delivers 351 calories with 25.58 g of protein and 26.62 g of fat, making it a satisfying, nutrient-dense choice. Its standout micronutrient is calcium at 756 mg per 100 g (76% DV) — even higher than cheddar. As an aged cheese, provolone is naturally low in lactose (only 0.56 g sugar per 100 g), and its versatility makes it a staple in sandwiches, cheesesteaks, pizzas, and low-carb meals alike.
1469 kJ · per 100g
Calorie Calculator: Provolone Cheese
28 g Provolone Cheese contains 98 kcal
Calories by Portion Size
| Portion | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 slice (28 g) | 98 kcal | 7.2g | 0.6g | 7.5g |
| 2 slices / sandwich (56 g) | 197 kcal | 14.3g | 1.2g | 14.9g |
| 100 grams | 351 kcal | 25.6g | 2.1g | 26.6g |
| 1 cup shredded (113 g) | 397 kcal | 28.9g | 2.4g | 30.1g |
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Provolone Cheese — Nutrition Facts
| Provolone Cheese | per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 351 kcal |
| Protein | 25.58 g |
| Fat | 26.62 g |
| Carbs | 2.14 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0.56 g |
| Sodium | 727 mg |
Source: USDA FoodData Central (FDC ID: 170850) · Data verified April 2026
Variations
Provolone Dolce
~351 kcal per 100 g. Aged 2–3 months with calf rennet, producing a mild, creamy, and slightly sweet flavor with a smooth, elastic texture. This is the most common form of provolone found in supermarkets and is the classic choice for sandwiches and everyday snacking. Nutritionally very close to the standard USDA values.
Provolone Piccante
~355 kcal per 100 g. Aged 4+ months, often with goat or lamb rennet, developing a sharp, tangy, and more pungent flavor with a firmer, more crumbly texture than dolce. Very similar macros to dolce (protein, fat roughly the same), but even lower residual lactose due to longer aging. Excellent for grating over pasta or enjoying on a cheese board.
Provolone Valpadana DOP
~351 kcal per 100 g. A PDO (Protected Designation of Origin, since 1996) cheese made exclusively in the Po Valley of Northern Italy from whole cow's milk, available in both dolce and piccante forms. Nutritionally similar to standard provolone, but production follows strict traditional methods regulated by the Consorzio Tutela Provolone Valpadana. Represents the premium, geographically protected version of the cheese.
Smoked Provolone (Affumicato)
~351 kcal per 100 g. Nutritionally close to standard provolone, with a distinctive smoky flavor from traditional natural wood smoking (not liquid smoke). Popular for grilling, charcuterie boards, and adding depth to sandwiches. The smoking process slightly firms the rind but doesn't meaningfully change the macros. A favorite in Italian-American delis.
Dietary Perspectives
For Weight Loss
Provolone is lower in calories than cheddar at 351 kcal per 100 g, making it a slightly lighter aged cheese option. A single 28 g slice delivers just 98 calories with 7.2 g of protein and virtually no carbs — a satisfying addition to controlled meals. The high protein and fat content promotes satiety, helping curb appetite between meals. Provolone's calcium (756 mg per 100 g) may also support fat metabolism, as adequate calcium intake is linked to improved weight management in several studies. Choose provolone dolce for milder everyday use with easy portion control, such as thin slices on salads or in wraps.
For Athletic Performance
Provolone delivers 25.58 g of complete protein per 100 g — all essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth. Its calcium content (756 mg per 100 g, 76% DV) supports the bone density critical for high-impact and endurance sports, while phosphorus (496 mg) aids energy metabolism and bone mineralization. A 56 g portion (2 slices) provides about 14.3 g protein and 423 mg calcium for around 196 calories — an efficient recovery snack. Provolone also supplies vitamin B12 (1.46 μg per 100 g), important for red blood cell formation and oxygen transport during training. The sodium content (727 mg) helps replace electrolytes lost through sweat during intense sessions.
For Keto
Provolone is an excellent keto food. With only 2.14 g of carbs per 100 g and a high fat content of 26.62 g, it aligns well with ketogenic macros. A single slice (28 g) adds just 0.6 g carbs — negligible even on strict keto. The 25.58 g protein supports muscle maintenance without excessive gluconeogenesis. Provolone also provides sodium (727 mg) and calcium (756 mg), two electrolytes commonly depleted during keto adaptation. Its low lactose content (0.56 g sugar) makes it well-tolerated by most people on keto, and provolone piccante — aged longer — has even less residual lactose. Keep a block in the fridge for quick, zero-prep keto snacks or melt it over low-carb vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in provolone cheese?
100 g of provolone cheese contains 351 calories. A single slice (28 g) has approximately 98 calories. Two slices (56 g) — a typical sandwich portion — have about 196 calories. One cup of shredded provolone (113 g) has about 397 calories. Most of the energy comes from fat (26.62 g per 100 g), followed by protein (25.58 g), with minimal carbs (2.14 g). Provolone is calorie-dense but delivers excellent protein and calcium per slice.
Is provolone cheese healthy?
Provolone offers several nutritional benefits. It is an excellent source of calcium (756 mg per 100 g — 76% of the daily value), supporting bone health, muscle function, and nerve signaling. It provides 25.58 g of complete protein per 100 g, along with meaningful amounts of phosphorus, zinc, vitamin B12 (1.46 μg), and vitamin A. As an aged cheese, it is naturally low in lactose (0.56 g sugar), making it well-tolerated by many people with mild lactose sensitivity. Its sodium content (727 mg) also contributes to daily electrolyte needs.
Is provolone cheese keto-friendly?
Yes, provolone is an excellent keto cheese. With only 2.14 g of carbs per 100 g (about 0.6 g per slice), it fits comfortably within strict keto limits. The high fat content (26.62 g) supports keto macros well, and the 25.58 g of protein helps meet daily protein targets without excess. Provolone also supplies calcium and sodium, electrolytes that are often depleted during ketosis. Provolone piccante, aged longer, contains even less residual lactose, making it a great choice for keto snacking or melting into low-carb dishes.
Provolone vs mozzarella — what's the difference?
Provolone is more calorie-dense and firmer than mozzarella because it is aged, while mozzarella is a fresh cheese. Per 100 g: provolone has 351 kcal, 26.62 g fat, 25.58 g protein, and 2.14 g carbs, while whole-milk mozzarella has 299 kcal, 22.14 g fat, 22.17 g protein, and 2.4 g carbs. Provolone also leads in calcium (756 mg vs ~505 mg). Both belong to the pasta filata (stretched-curd) cheese family, but aging gives provolone a firmer texture and sharper flavor, while mozzarella's freshness makes it the classic choice for pizza.
How long does provolone cheese last?
Provolone has good keeping qualities thanks to its aging process and low moisture content. Unopened, vacuum-sealed provolone lasts 2–4 months in the refrigerator. Once opened, it keeps well for 2–3 weeks if tightly wrapped in wax paper or plastic wrap. Provolone piccante, aged longer than dolce, tends to last slightly longer due to lower moisture. If mold appears on the surface of hard provolone, you can cut away at least 2.5 cm (1 inch) around it and safely consume the rest. Provolone also freezes well for up to 2 months, though the texture may become slightly crumbly after thawing.
Compare with Similar Foods
| Portion | kcal | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Provolone Cheese | 351 | 25.58g | 2.14g | 26.62g |
| Mozzarella (Whole Milk) | 299 | 22.17g | 2.4g | 22.14g |
| Gouda | 356 | 24.94g | 2.22g | 27.44g |
| Parmesan (Hard) | 392 | 35.75g | 3.22g | 25g |
| Swiss Cheese | 393 | 26.96g | 1.44g | 30.99g |
per 100g
Provolone delivers 351 kcal per 100 g with 25.58 g protein and 26.62 g fat — moderate calorie density compared to other aged cheeses. Its calcium content (756 mg, 76% DV) surpasses cheddar (711 mg), gouda (700 mg), and mozzarella (~505 mg). Compared to parmesan (392 kcal, 35.75 g protein), provolone is lower in both calories and protein but higher in calcium. Among pasta filata cheeses, provolone offers the firmest texture and longest shelf life due to its aging process.
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