Evidence-Based Nutrition Guide
Calories in an Egg: Complete Guide
How many calories are in an egg? The answer depends on size, cooking method, and whether you eat the whole egg or just the white. This guide covers every scenario with USDA data.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Quick Answer
Calories per large egg (USDA data)
Calories by Egg Size
| Size | Weight | 1 Egg | 2 Eggs | 3 Eggs | 6 Eggs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 38g | 54 | 108 | 162 | 324 |
| Medium | 44g | 63 | 126 | 189 | 378 |
| Large | 50g | 72 | 144 | 216 | 432 |
| Extra Large | 56g | 80 | 160 | 240 | 480 |
| Jumbo | 63g | 90 | 180 | 270 | 540 |
Calories by Cooking Method
The cooking method is the biggest variable in egg calories. Boiling and poaching add zero calories, while frying and scrambling add 20-50+ calories from cooking fats.
| Method | Calories (1 egg) | Calories (2 eggs) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boiled | 72 | 144 | No added fat |
| Poached | 72 | 144 | No added fat |
| Fried (1 tsp oil) | ~92 | ~184 | Oil absorption ~8-15% |
| Scrambled (butter) | ~102 | ~204 | Butter + absorption ~15-22% |
| Omelet (with fillings) | ~120+ | ~240+ | Varies by fillings |
For exact values based on your preparation, use our Egg Nutrition Calculator.
Egg White vs Yolk Calories
The calorie distribution between white and yolk is dramatically uneven:
- Egg white: 17 calories (24% of total) — almost entirely protein
- Egg yolk: 55 calories (76% of total) — contains all the fat and most vitamins
This is why egg whites are popular for low-calorie, high-protein diets. You can eat 4 egg whites (68 calories, 14.4g protein) for fewer calories than a single whole egg.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories in one egg?
One large egg contains 72 calories. A medium egg has 63 calories, and a jumbo egg has 90 calories. These values are for a whole raw or boiled egg with no added fat.
How many calories in a fried egg?
A fried egg has approximately 90-95 calories when cooked with 1 teaspoon of oil. The egg itself is 72 calories, and the cooking oil adds 20-40 calories depending on the amount absorbed.
How many calories in scrambled eggs?
Two scrambled eggs made with 1 tsp butter contain approximately 180-200 calories. The eggs contribute 144 calories and the butter/milk additions account for the rest.
Are boiled eggs lower in calories than fried?
Yes. A boiled egg has 72 calories (no added fat), while a fried egg has 90-95 calories due to oil absorption. Boiling and poaching are the lowest-calorie cooking methods for eggs.
How many calories in an egg white?
One large egg white contains only 17 calories with 3.6g of protein and virtually zero fat. This makes egg whites one of the most calorie-efficient protein sources available.
Related Tools & Guides
Source: USDA FoodData Central — FDC ID 171287