Prices last checked October 28, 2026
Breaded, fried white cheddar cheese curds, a Midwest favorite.
DQ Cheese Curds are bite-size white cheddar curds in a light breading, fried until melty inside. They started as a Midwest favorite and are now on many menus nationwide.
With 24 grams of protein in a regular order, they are more filling than fries.
Cheese Curds Price (October 2026)
The Cheese Curds typically cost $4.49 at U.S. Dairy Queen locations, and you can expect to pay anywhere from about $3.49 to $6.99. Nearly every Dairy Queen is an independently owned franchise that sets its own prices, so expect higher prices at airports, travel plazas and big-city stores, and a markup on delivery apps.
| Item | Typical price | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Cheese Curds (Regular) | $4.49 | 500 |
| Cheese Curds (Large) | $6.49 | 1,000 |
Cheese Curds Calories and Nutrition
The Cheese Curds have 500 calories, about 25% of a 2,000-calorie day, along with 24 g of protein and 990 mg of sodium.
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 500 | 25% |
| Total fat | 34 g | 44% |
| Carbohydrates | 26 g | 9% |
| Protein | 24 g | 48% |
| Sodium | 990 mg | 43% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Nutrition shown for a Regular. Nutrition is approximate and based on Dairy Queen's published U.S. nutrition information.
What's in the Cheese Curds?
- White cheddar cheese curds
- Breading
- Vegetable oil
Allergens: contains Egg, Milk, Soy, Wheat. Recipes and suppliers can change, so always check Dairy Queen's allergen information or ask your server if you have a food allergy.
When can you order the Cheese Curds?
The Cheese Curds are on the food menu, which is served at DQ Grill & Chill and other full-menu Dairy Queen restaurants. Treat-only DQ stores, often walk-up or mall locations, do not sell food. See our Grill & Chill vs. DQ Treat guide.
Are the Cheese Curds worth it?
At a typical $4.49, the Cheese Curds work out to about $0.90 per 100 calories and 5.3 grams of protein per dollar, which is better than the average for hot dogs & sides on the menu (2.8 g per dollar).
Comparing sizes, the large gives you the most food for your money at roughly $0.65 per 100 calories.
On a tighter budget? The Hot Dog costs about $2.99.
Ordering tips
- Dip them in ranch or zesty queso.
- Eat them right away while the cheese is melty.
Cheese Curds FAQ
How much do the Cheese Curds cost at Dairy Queen?
At a typical U.S. Dairy Queen in October 2026, the Cheese Curds cost: Regular $4.49, Large $6.49. Prices we tracked range from $3.49 to $6.99 depending on the restaurant.
How many calories are in the Cheese Curds?
The Cheese Curds have 500 calories, 34 g of fat, 26 g of carbohydrates and 24 g of protein. Nutrition shown for a Regular.
Does every Dairy Queen sell the Cheese Curds?
No. Food is only served at DQ Grill & Chill and other full-menu restaurants; treat-only Dairy Queen stores sell ice cream treats and drinks but no food.
Does every Dairy Queen have cheese curds?
They are on the menu at many full-menu locations, especially in the Midwest; availability varies.