Ground Beef vs Cream Cheese: 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 342), more protein (26g vs 5.9g), more fiber (0g vs 0g), less sugar (0g vs 0.4g), less sodium (75mg vs 321mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.
Quick Summary
Fewer Calories
Ground Beef
250 kcal
More Protein
Ground Beef
26g
More Fiber
Ground Beef
0g
Less Sugar
Ground Beef
0g
Visual Comparison
Side-by-Side Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Ground Beef | Cream Cheese | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 250kcal✓ | 342kcal | -92.0kcal |
| Protein | 26g✓ | 5.9g | +20.1g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g✓ | 4.1g | -4.1g |
| Fat | 17g✓ | 34g | -17.0g |
| Fiber | 0g | 0g | 0.0g |
| Sugar | 0g✓ | 0.4g | -0.4g |
| Sodium | 75mg✓ | 321mg | -246.0mg |
Serving Size Comparison
All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:
Ground Beef
Cream Cheese
Diet Compatibility
Ground Beef
Cream Cheese
When to Choose Ground Beef
- ✓Lower in calories (250 vs 342)
- ✓Higher in protein (26g vs 5.9g)
- ✓More fiber (0g vs 0g)
- ✓Lower in carbs (0g vs 4.1g)
- ✓Less sugar (0g vs 0.4g)
- ✓Lower sodium (75mg vs 321mg)
Common Uses
When to Choose Cream Cheese
Common Uses
Ground Beef vs Cream Cheese: Nutritional Analysis
Cream Cheese is more calorie-dense at 342 calories per 100g compared to 250 for Ground Beef, a difference of 92 calories. On the protein front, Ground Beef delivers more with 26g per 100g versus 5.9g, 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 Ground Beef and Cream Cheese tell different nutritional stories. Ground Beef provides 0g of carbohydrates, 17g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Cream Cheese contains 4.1g carbs, 34g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Ground Beef contains 0g while Cream Cheese has 0.4g 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: Ground Beef 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, Ground Beef or Cream Cheese?
Cream Cheese has more calories with 342 kcal per 100g, compared to Ground Beef with 250 kcal. That's a difference of 92 calories per 100g serving.
Is Ground Beef healthier than Cream Cheese?
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 Ground Beef and Cream Cheese?
Ground Beef has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Cream Cheese with 5.9g. Ground Beef provides 20.1g more protein per 100g serving.
Which is better for weight loss, Ground Beef or Cream Cheese?
For weight loss, Ground Beef is the better choice with only 250 calories per 100g compared to 342 calories in Cream Cheese. Cream Cheese also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.
Does Ground Beef or Cream Cheese have fewer carbs?
Ground Beef has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Cream Cheese with 4.1g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Ground Beef is the better option with 4.1g fewer carbohydrates.
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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.