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

Hamburger vs 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?

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles with each winning in different categories. Your choice should depend on your specific dietary goals and preferences. Hamburger has 215 calories while Cheese has 402 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Hamburger

215 kcal

More Protein

Cheese

23g

More Fiber

Hamburger

0g

Less Sugar

Cheese

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Hamburger
215
Cheese
402
Proteinper 100g
Hamburger
17g
Cheese
23g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Hamburger
16g
Cheese
3.4g
Fatper 100g
Hamburger
9g
Cheese
33g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientHamburgerCheeseDifference
Calories215kcal402kcal-187.0kcal
Protein17g23g-6.0g
Carbohydrates16g3.4g+12.6g
Fat9g33g-24.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar3g0.7g+2.3g
Sodium404mg714mg-310.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Hamburger

Per 100g:215 calories
Per cup (150g):323 calories
Per serving (85g):183 calories

Cheese

Per 100g:402 calories
Per cup (150g):603 calories
Per serving (85g):342 calories

Diet Compatibility

Hamburger

High-Protein

Cheese

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinVegetarian

When to Choose Hamburger

  • Lower in calories (215 vs 402)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (404mg vs 714mg)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Hamburger nutrition →

When to Choose Cheese

  • Higher in protein (23g vs 17g)
  • Lower in carbs (3.4g vs 16g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 3g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Cheese nutrition →

Hamburger vs Cheese: Nutritional Analysis

Cheese is more calorie-dense at 402 calories per 100g compared to 215 for Hamburger, a difference of 187 calories. On the protein front, Cheese delivers more with 23g per 100g versus 17g, 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 Hamburger and Cheese tell different nutritional stories. Hamburger provides 16g of carbohydrates, 9g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Cheese contains 3.4g carbs, 33g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Hamburger contains 3g while Cheese has 0.7g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Hamburger is the lower-calorie choice at 215 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Cheese provides more protein (23g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Hamburger 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, Hamburger or Cheese?

Cheese has more calories with 402 kcal per 100g, compared to Hamburger with 215 kcal. That's a difference of 187 calories per 100g serving.

Is Hamburger healthier than Cheese?

Hamburger and Cheese have similar nutritional profiles, with each food winning in different categories. The healthier choice depends on your specific dietary goals and nutritional needs.

What is the protein difference between Hamburger and Cheese?

Cheese has more protein with 23g per 100g, compared to Hamburger with 17g. Cheese provides 6.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Hamburger or Cheese?

For weight loss, Hamburger is the better choice with only 215 calories per 100g compared to 402 calories in Cheese. Cheese also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Hamburger or Cheese have fewer carbs?

Cheese has fewer carbs with 3.4g per 100g, compared to Hamburger with 16g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cheese is the better option with 12.6g 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.