Beef Patty Calories: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Next Bite

As you make the decision for your next burger, knowing how many calories a beef patty contains and how that compares to options like fish burgers, bulk veggie burgers, and chicken burgers is very important for anyone with an eye toward nutrition and wellness. This guide will cover all things beef patties, including calorie counts, nutritional benefits, healthy substitutions, and more.

What is a Beef Patty, and How Many Calories Does It Contain?

A beef patty is a flattened, round portion of ground beef which has either been seasoned or not and is commonly prepared by pan-frying, grilling, or broiling. The caloric density of the patty depends on a few things: the portion weight, the percentage of fat in the ground beef, and how it was cooked. Below are references for calories in beef patties based on the size and fat content of the ground meat: 

4 oz (113g), 80/20 ground beef: 280–350 calories

4 oz, 85/15 ground beef: 240–260 calories

4 oz, 90/10 ground beef: 200–220 calories

8 oz, 80/20 ground beef: 560–600 calories

100 g patty (homemade): 176–254 calories 

The majority of those calories provided by fat and protein are essential for energy and muscle repair.

Complete Nutritional Breakdown: Beef Patties

Besides calories, a typical 4 oz beef patty provides:

• Protein: 19–20g (essential for muscle repair)
• Fat: 11–20g (includes saturated and healthy fats)
• Iron: 2–3mg (crucial for red blood cell production)
• Zinc and B vitamins: for immune function and energy metabolism

However, beef patties are also high in saturated fat and cholesterol, so moderation is advised for heart health.

How Beef Patties Compare to Other Patties

Burger Type	Calories (per 4 oz)	Protein (g)	Fat (g)	Notable Nutrients
Beef Patty	280–350	19–20	11–20	Iron, B12, zinc, protein
Chicken Burger	200–220	23–25	6–8	Lean protein, less fat
Fish Burger	180–250	16–19	8–11	Omega-3, selenium, vitamin D
Bulk Veggie Burger	150–200	8–15	2–6	Fiber, vitamin B1, less sat. fat
Hamburger (plain)	295–350	~17	~14	Similar to beef patty

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Are Beef Patties a Healthy Choice?

Benefits:

• High in protein: Assists with muscle growth and promotes satiety.
• High in iron and B vitamins: Essential for blood and energy function.
• Versatile: Can be a component of a balanced meal with whole grains and vegetables.

Considerations:

• High saturated fat: Associated with heart disease when taken in excess. 
• Calorie dense: Large portions or stacked patties can add up fast. 
• Lower fiber: Compared to veggie and one fish burger.

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Tips to Make Your Burger More Nutritious

• Go lean: Select 90/10 or 95/5 beef for lower calorie and lower fat content.
• Portion control: Keep to 4 oz patties, especially with cheese or sauce.
• Add veggies: Top with tomato, lettuce, onion, plus include a side salad with fiber.
• Swap sometimes: Go with chicken, fish or bulk veggie burgers for options as well as extra nutrients.
• Choose whole grain buns: Provide fiber and some lagging nutrients that are often lost from the classic burger.

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A Closer Look: Veggie Burger vs. Beef Patty

The advantages of veggie burgers include: 

• Much higher fiber (4-5g vs. 0.9g/serving), 
• Lower saturated fat and cholesterol, 
• More vitamins like B1 and folate, but lower zinc and protein. 
• Be wary of sodium: some bulk veggie burgers may be higher in sodium. 

On the other hand, beef patties provide more protein/serving and higher amounts of iron, zinc, and B12, though they also come with additional saturated fat and no dietary fiber. 

Final Thoughts

There is no single patty that is “best” for everyone and it depends on dietary needs and preferences. Some types of patties offer an excellent fit into a balanced, varied, and healthy diet by either employing lean beef, as well as having portion control, and adding many vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions