Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Cheeseburger vs Couscous: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Couscous is generally healthier

Couscous comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (112 vs 280), more fiber (1.4g vs 0g), less sugar (0.1g vs 6g), less sodium (5mg vs 520mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Couscous

112 kcal

More Protein

Cheeseburger

15g

More Fiber

Couscous

1.4g

Less Sugar

Couscous

0.1g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cheeseburger
280
Couscous
112
Proteinper 100g
Cheeseburger
15g
Couscous
3.8g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cheeseburger
22g
Couscous
23g
Fatper 100g
Cheeseburger
14g
Couscous
0.2g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCheeseburgerCouscousDifference
Calories280kcal112kcal+168.0kcal
Protein15g3.8g+11.2g
Carbohydrates22g23g-1.0g
Fat14g0.2g+13.8g
Fiber0g1.4g-1.4g
Sugar6g0.1g+5.9g
Sodium520mg5mg+515.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Cheeseburger

Per 100g:280 calories
Per cup (150g):420 calories
Per serving (85g):238 calories

Couscous

Per 100g:112 calories
Per cup (150g):168 calories
Per serving (85g):95 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cheeseburger

High-Protein

Couscous

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cheeseburger

  • Higher in protein (15g vs 3.8g)
  • Lower in carbs (22g vs 23g)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Cheeseburger nutrition →

When to Choose Couscous

  • Lower in calories (112 vs 280)
  • More fiber (1.4g vs 0g)
  • Less sugar (0.1g vs 6g)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 520mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Couscous nutrition →

Cheeseburger vs Couscous: Nutritional Analysis

Cheeseburger is more calorie-dense at 280 calories per 100g compared to 112 for Couscous, a difference of 168 calories. On the protein front, Cheeseburger delivers more with 15g per 100g versus 3.8g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Cheeseburger and Couscous tell different nutritional stories. Cheeseburger provides 22g of carbohydrates, 14g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Couscous contains 23g carbs, 0.2g fat, and 1.4g fiber. The higher fiber content in Couscous supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Cheeseburger contains 6g while Couscous has 0.1g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Couscous is the lower-calorie choice at 112 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Cheeseburger provides more protein (15g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Couscous offers more fiber (1.4g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Cheeseburger or Couscous?

Cheeseburger has more calories with 280 kcal per 100g, compared to Couscous with 112 kcal. That's a difference of 168 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cheeseburger healthier than Couscous?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Couscous is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Couscous has 112 calories, 3.8g protein, and 1.4g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Cheeseburger and Couscous?

Cheeseburger has more protein with 15g per 100g, compared to Couscous with 3.8g. Cheeseburger provides 11.2g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cheeseburger or Couscous?

For weight loss, Couscous is the better choice with only 112 calories per 100g compared to 280 calories in Cheeseburger. Couscous also offers 1.4g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cheeseburger or Couscous have fewer carbs?

Cheeseburger has fewer carbs with 22g per 100g, compared to Couscous with 23g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cheeseburger is the better option with 1.0g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.