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

Ground Beef vs Pancake: 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 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (26g vs 6.4g), less sugar (0g vs 6.5g), less sodium (75mg vs 440mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Pancake

227 kcal

More Protein

Ground Beef

26g

More Fiber

Pancake

0.9g

Less Sugar

Ground Beef

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Ground Beef
250
Pancake
227
Proteinper 100g
Ground Beef
26g
Pancake
6.4g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Ground Beef
0g
Pancake
28g
Fatper 100g
Ground Beef
17g
Pancake
10g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientGround BeefPancakeDifference
Calories250kcal227kcal+23.0kcal
Protein26g6.4g+19.6g
Carbohydrates0g28g-28.0g
Fat17g10g+7.0g
Fiber0g0.9g-0.9g
Sugar0g6.5g-6.5g
Sodium75mg440mg-365.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Ground Beef

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

Pancake

Per 100g:227 calories
Per cup (150g):341 calories
Per serving (85g):193 calories

Diet Compatibility

Ground Beef

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

Pancake

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Ground Beef

  • Higher in protein (26g vs 6.4g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 28g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 6.5g)
  • Lower sodium (75mg vs 440mg)

Common Uses

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

When to Choose Pancake

  • Lower in calories (227 vs 250)
  • More fiber (0.9g vs 0g)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Pancake nutrition →

Ground Beef vs Pancake: Nutritional Analysis

Ground Beef is more calorie-dense at 250 calories per 100g compared to 227 for Pancake, a difference of 23 calories. On the protein front, Ground Beef delivers more with 26g per 100g versus 6.4g, 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 Pancake tell different nutritional stories. Ground Beef provides 0g of carbohydrates, 17g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Pancake contains 28g carbs, 10g fat, and 0.9g fiber. The higher fiber content in Pancake supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Ground Beef contains 0g while Pancake has 6.5g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Pancake is the lower-calorie choice at 227 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: Pancake offers more fiber (0.9g/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 Pancake?

Ground Beef has more calories with 250 kcal per 100g, compared to Pancake with 227 kcal. That's a difference of 23 calories per 100g serving.

Is Ground Beef healthier than Pancake?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Ground Beef is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 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 Pancake?

Ground Beef has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Pancake with 6.4g. Ground Beef provides 19.6g more protein per 100g serving.

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

For weight loss, Pancake is the better choice with only 227 calories per 100g compared to 250 calories in Ground Beef. Pancake also offers 0.9g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Ground Beef or Pancake have fewer carbs?

Ground Beef has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Pancake with 28g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Ground Beef is the better option with 28.0g 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.