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

Quesadilla vs Hamburger: 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?

Hamburger is generally healthier

Hamburger comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (215 vs 255), more protein (17g vs 12g), less sodium (404mg vs 520mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Hamburger

215 kcal

More Protein

Hamburger

17g

More Fiber

Quesadilla

1.2g

Less Sugar

Quesadilla

1.8g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Quesadilla
255
Hamburger
215
Proteinper 100g
Quesadilla
12g
Hamburger
17g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Quesadilla
20g
Hamburger
16g
Fatper 100g
Quesadilla
14g
Hamburger
9g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientQuesadillaHamburgerDifference
Calories255kcal215kcal+40.0kcal
Protein12g17g-5.0g
Carbohydrates20g16g+4.0g
Fat14g9g+5.0g
Fiber1.2g0g+1.2g
Sugar1.8g3g-1.2g
Sodium520mg404mg+116.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Quesadilla

Per 100g:255 calories
Per cup (150g):383 calories
Per serving (85g):217 calories

Hamburger

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

Diet Compatibility

Quesadilla

No specific diet tags

Hamburger

High-Protein

When to Choose Quesadilla

  • More fiber (1.2g vs 0g)
  • Less sugar (1.8g vs 3g)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Quesadilla nutrition →

When to Choose Hamburger

  • Lower in calories (215 vs 255)
  • Higher in protein (17g vs 12g)
  • Lower in carbs (16g vs 20g)
  • Lower sodium (404mg vs 520mg)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Hamburger nutrition →

Quesadilla vs Hamburger: Nutritional Analysis

Quesadilla is more calorie-dense at 255 calories per 100g compared to 215 for Hamburger, a difference of 40 calories. On the protein front, Hamburger delivers more with 17g per 100g versus 12g, 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 Quesadilla and Hamburger tell different nutritional stories. Quesadilla provides 20g of carbohydrates, 14g of fat, and 1.2g of fiber per 100g, while Hamburger contains 16g carbs, 9g fat, and 0g fiber. The higher fiber content in Quesadilla supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Quesadilla contains 1.8g while Hamburger has 3g 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: Hamburger provides more protein (17g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Quesadilla offers more fiber (1.2g/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, Quesadilla or Hamburger?

Quesadilla has more calories with 255 kcal per 100g, compared to Hamburger with 215 kcal. That's a difference of 40 calories per 100g serving.

Is Quesadilla healthier than Hamburger?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Hamburger is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Hamburger has 215 calories, 17g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Quesadilla and Hamburger?

Hamburger has more protein with 17g per 100g, compared to Quesadilla with 12g. Hamburger provides 5.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Quesadilla or Hamburger?

For weight loss, Hamburger is the better choice with only 215 calories per 100g compared to 255 calories in Quesadilla. Quesadilla also offers 1.2g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Quesadilla or Hamburger have fewer carbs?

Hamburger has fewer carbs with 16g per 100g, compared to Quesadilla with 20g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Hamburger is the better option with 4.0g 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.