Dairy Queen Cheeseburger Protein Breakdown by Size
The amount of protein you get in a Dairy Queen cheeseburger depends directly on the size of the burger. Dairy Queen offers its Original Cheeseburger in single, double, and triple patty options, and the protein count scales accordingly. The primary source of protein is the 100% seasoned beef patty, so more patties mean more protein.
Original Cheeseburger - Single
- Protein: 17g
- Calories: 370
- Macronutrient Breakdown: The single patty burger provides a moderate amount of protein, making it a viable option for a lighter meal. However, it is important to consider the total calorie count and the other macronutrients, as this burger still contains significant fat and carbohydrates.
Original Cheeseburger - Double
- Protein: 29g
- Calories: 570
- Macronutrient Breakdown: By adding a second patty, the protein content increases substantially, offering a more filling meal. This is a good choice for those looking to maximize protein intake from their cheeseburger while still being mindful of calories.
Original Cheeseburger - Triple
- Protein: 40g
- Calories: 760
- Macronutrient Breakdown: The triple patty option provides a significant protein boost, suitable for those with higher protein goals. However, this also comes with a higher calorie, fat, and sodium load, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
A Broader Look at Macronutrients
While protein is a key consideration, a cheeseburger's overall nutritional profile includes fats, carbohydrates, and sodium. Understanding these numbers helps put the protein content into perspective.
Here is a general macronutrient profile for the Dairy Queen Original Cheeseburger (Single):
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 1120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 37g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 8g
Key Nutritional Considerations:
- Sodium Content: The sodium level in all cheeseburger sizes is quite high, often exceeding a significant portion of the recommended daily intake. This is a common trait of many fast-food items and should be a consideration for those managing blood pressure.
- Fat Content: The cheeseburgers also contain a notable amount of fat, especially saturated fat. The cheese adds extra fat and calories, contributing to the overall macro breakdown.
- Balanced Meal: For a more balanced meal, consider pairing your cheeseburger with a side salad instead of fries to add some fiber and micronutrients, helping to counteract the high fat and sodium.
Fast Food Cheeseburger Protein Comparison
To provide context on how DQ's cheeseburgers stack up, here is a comparison with similar-sized cheeseburgers from other popular fast-food chains based on recent nutritional information:
| Restaurant | Burger | Protein (g) | Calories (kcal) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dairy Queen | Original Cheeseburger (Single) | 17g | 370 | Moderate protein for a smaller burger size. |
| Dairy Queen | Original Cheeseburger (Double) | 29g | 570 | Higher protein option for those seeking a more filling meal. |
| McDonald's | Cheeseburger | 15g | 300 | Slightly lower protein and calories than the DQ single. |
| McDonald's | Double Quarter Pounder w/ Cheese | 48g | 740 | High protein count, similar to DQ's triple but with a larger patty. |
| Burger King | Big Mac (as reference) | 25g | 550 | A two-patty option with a slightly lower protein count than the DQ double. |
Maximizing Your Protein at Dairy Queen
If you are aiming to increase your protein intake at Dairy Queen, here are a few strategies:
- Go for the Double or Triple: The most direct way to get more protein is to choose a larger version of the cheeseburger.
- Add Another Protein Source: Complement your cheeseburger with another protein-rich item. For instance, some locations offer chicken strips, with a 3-piece order adding an extra 19g of protein.
- Consider a Salad with Added Protein: While not a cheeseburger, a grilled chicken salad bowl is a high-protein, lower-calorie alternative that offers 32g of protein.
- Make Smart Substitutions: While there are limited options for modification at DQ, skipping high-sugar sauces and adding extra pickles can reduce overall sugar content while retaining flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a Dairy Queen cheeseburger can be a decent source of protein, especially when opting for the double or triple patty varieties. A single Original Cheeseburger provides 17 grams of protein, a double has 29 grams, and a triple offers 40 grams. When considering the nutritional value, it's crucial to balance the protein gain with the accompanying calories, fat, and high sodium content. By being aware of the nutritional information and making smart menu choices, you can better manage your dietary intake while still enjoying a fast-food treat. For specific nutrition information, always check the official Dairy Queen Nutrition Facts & Allergy Information.
