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

Hamburger vs Mozzarella: 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 Mozzarella has 280 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Hamburger

215 kcal

More Protein

Mozzarella

28g

More Fiber

Hamburger

0g

Less Sugar

Mozzarella

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Hamburger
215
Mozzarella
280
Proteinper 100g
Hamburger
17g
Mozzarella
28g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Hamburger
16g
Mozzarella
3.1g
Fatper 100g
Hamburger
9g
Mozzarella
17g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientHamburgerMozzarellaDifference
Calories215kcal280kcal-65.0kcal
Protein17g28g-11.0g
Carbohydrates16g3.1g+12.9g
Fat9g17g-8.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar3g0.7g+2.3g
Sodium404mg505mg-101.0mg

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

Mozzarella

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

Diet Compatibility

Hamburger

High-Protein

Mozzarella

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinVegetarian

When to Choose Hamburger

  • Lower in calories (215 vs 280)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (404mg vs 505mg)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Hamburger nutrition →

When to Choose Mozzarella

  • Higher in protein (28g vs 17g)
  • Lower in carbs (3.1g vs 16g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 3g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Mozzarella nutrition →

Hamburger vs Mozzarella: Nutritional Analysis

Mozzarella is more calorie-dense at 280 calories per 100g compared to 215 for Hamburger, a difference of 65 calories. On the protein front, Mozzarella delivers more with 28g 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 Mozzarella tell different nutritional stories. Hamburger provides 16g of carbohydrates, 9g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Mozzarella contains 3.1g carbs, 17g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Hamburger contains 3g while Mozzarella 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: Mozzarella provides more protein (28g/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 Mozzarella?

Mozzarella has more calories with 280 kcal per 100g, compared to Hamburger with 215 kcal. That's a difference of 65 calories per 100g serving.

Is Hamburger healthier than Mozzarella?

Hamburger and Mozzarella 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 Mozzarella?

Mozzarella has more protein with 28g per 100g, compared to Hamburger with 17g. Mozzarella provides 11.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Hamburger or Mozzarella?

For weight loss, Hamburger is the better choice with only 215 calories per 100g compared to 280 calories in Mozzarella. Mozzarella also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Hamburger or Mozzarella have fewer carbs?

Mozzarella has fewer carbs with 3.1g per 100g, compared to Hamburger with 16g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Mozzarella is the better option with 12.9g 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.