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

Sub Sandwich vs Mac and 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?

Mac and Cheese is generally healthier

Mac and Cheese comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (164 vs 260), less sugar (2.8g vs 5.7g), less sodium (470mg vs 670mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Mac and Cheese

164 kcal

More Protein

Sub Sandwich

12g

More Fiber

Sub Sandwich

2.4g

Less Sugar

Mac and Cheese

2.8g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Sub Sandwich
260
Mac and Cheese
164
Proteinper 100g
Sub Sandwich
12g
Mac and Cheese
6.5g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Sub Sandwich
38g
Mac and Cheese
18g
Fatper 100g
Sub Sandwich
5.8g
Mac and Cheese
7.2g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSub SandwichMac and CheeseDifference
Calories260kcal164kcal+96.0kcal
Protein12g6.5g+5.5g
Carbohydrates38g18g+20.0g
Fat5.8g7.2g-1.4g
Fiber2.4g0.7g+1.7g
Sugar5.7g2.8g+2.9g
Sodium670mg470mg+200.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Sub Sandwich

Per 100g:260 calories
Per cup (150g):390 calories
Per serving (85g):221 calories

Mac and Cheese

Per 100g:164 calories
Per cup (150g):246 calories
Per serving (85g):139 calories

Diet Compatibility

Sub Sandwich

No specific diet tags

Mac and Cheese

No specific diet tags

When to Choose Sub Sandwich

  • Higher in protein (12g vs 6.5g)
  • More fiber (2.4g vs 0.7g)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Sub Sandwich nutrition →

When to Choose Mac and Cheese

  • Lower in calories (164 vs 260)
  • Lower in carbs (18g vs 38g)
  • Less sugar (2.8g vs 5.7g)
  • Lower sodium (470mg vs 670mg)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Mac and Cheese nutrition →

Sub Sandwich vs Mac and Cheese: Nutritional Analysis

Sub Sandwich is more calorie-dense at 260 calories per 100g compared to 164 for Mac and Cheese, a difference of 96 calories. On the protein front, Sub Sandwich delivers more with 12g per 100g versus 6.5g, 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 Sub Sandwich and Mac and Cheese tell different nutritional stories. Sub Sandwich provides 38g of carbohydrates, 5.8g of fat, and 2.4g of fiber per 100g, while Mac and Cheese contains 18g carbs, 7.2g fat, and 0.7g fiber. The higher fiber content in Sub Sandwich supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Sub Sandwich contains 5.7g while Mac and Cheese has 2.8g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Mac and Cheese is the lower-calorie choice at 164 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Sub Sandwich provides more protein (12g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Sub Sandwich offers more fiber (2.4g/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, Sub Sandwich or Mac and Cheese?

Sub Sandwich has more calories with 260 kcal per 100g, compared to Mac and Cheese with 164 kcal. That's a difference of 96 calories per 100g serving.

Is Sub Sandwich healthier than Mac and Cheese?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Mac and Cheese is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Mac and Cheese has 164 calories, 6.5g protein, and 0.7g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Sub Sandwich and Mac and Cheese?

Sub Sandwich has more protein with 12g per 100g, compared to Mac and Cheese with 6.5g. Sub Sandwich provides 5.5g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Sub Sandwich or Mac and Cheese?

For weight loss, Mac and Cheese is the better choice with only 164 calories per 100g compared to 260 calories in Sub Sandwich. Sub Sandwich also offers 2.4g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Sub Sandwich or Mac and Cheese have fewer carbs?

Mac and Cheese has fewer carbs with 18g per 100g, compared to Sub Sandwich with 38g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Mac and Cheese is the better option with 20.0g 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.