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

Cheeseburger vs Ground Beef: 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?

Ground Beef is generally healthier

Ground Beef comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (250 vs 280), more protein (26g vs 15g), less sugar (0g vs 6g), less sodium (75mg vs 520mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Ground Beef

250 kcal

More Protein

Ground Beef

26g

More Fiber

Cheeseburger

0g

Less Sugar

Ground Beef

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cheeseburger
280
Ground Beef
250
Proteinper 100g
Cheeseburger
15g
Ground Beef
26g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cheeseburger
22g
Ground Beef
0g
Fatper 100g
Cheeseburger
14g
Ground Beef
17g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCheeseburgerGround BeefDifference
Calories280kcal250kcal+30.0kcal
Protein15g26g-11.0g
Carbohydrates22g0g+22.0g
Fat14g17g-3.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar6g0g+6.0g
Sodium520mg75mg+445.0mg

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

Ground Beef

Per 100g:250 calories
Per cup (150g):375 calories
Per serving (85g):213 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cheeseburger

High-Protein

Ground Beef

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cheeseburger

  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Cheeseburger nutrition →

When to Choose Ground Beef

  • Lower in calories (250 vs 280)
  • Higher in protein (26g vs 15g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 22g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 6g)
  • Lower sodium (75mg vs 520mg)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Ground Beef nutrition →

Cheeseburger vs Ground Beef: Nutritional Analysis

Cheeseburger is more calorie-dense at 280 calories per 100g compared to 250 for Ground Beef, a difference of 30 calories. On the protein front, Ground Beef delivers more with 26g per 100g versus 15g, 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 Ground Beef tell different nutritional stories. Cheeseburger provides 22g of carbohydrates, 14g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Ground Beef contains 0g carbs, 17g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Cheeseburger contains 6g while Ground Beef has 0g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Ground Beef is the lower-calorie choice at 250 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Ground Beef provides more protein (26g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Cheeseburger offers more fiber (0g/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 Ground Beef?

Cheeseburger has more calories with 280 kcal per 100g, compared to Ground Beef with 250 kcal. That's a difference of 30 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cheeseburger healthier than Ground Beef?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Ground Beef is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Ground Beef has 250 calories, 26g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Cheeseburger and Ground Beef?

Ground Beef has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Cheeseburger with 15g. Ground Beef provides 11.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cheeseburger or Ground Beef?

For weight loss, Ground Beef is the better choice with only 250 calories per 100g compared to 280 calories in Cheeseburger. Ground Beef also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cheeseburger or Ground Beef have fewer carbs?

Ground Beef has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Cheeseburger with 22g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Ground Beef is the better option with 22.0g 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.