How many calories are in a hamburger patty without bun?

December 30, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the USDA, a 3-ounce cooked beef patty made from 85% lean ground beef contains approximately 197 calories. Knowing how many calories are in a hamburger patty without bun is crucial for those on low-carb diets or simply tracking their intake, as the final number depends heavily on the patty's fat content and size.

Quick Summary

The calorie count of a plain hamburger patty varies based on the lean-to-fat ratio and overall size. Factors like the type of meat and cooking method significantly influence the final nutritional value. Leaner beef offers fewer calories, while larger patties with higher fat content can dramatically increase the total. Understanding these variables helps in making informed dietary choices.

Key Points

Fat Content is Key: The lean-to-fat ratio of ground beef is the most important factor in determining the calorie count of a hamburger patty.
Size Matters: Larger patties contain more calories; a 4-ounce patty has significantly fewer calories than a 6 or 8-ounce one of the same fat ratio.
Cooking Technique Influences Calories: Grilling or pan-frying without additional oil can reduce calories as fat drips away, while cooking in added fats increases the total.
Leaner Options Exist: Turkey, chicken, and bison patties are typically lower in calories than traditional beef patties, offering viable alternatives for calorie-conscious diets.
Build Your Own Burger: To keep calories low, focus on lean meat and avoid calorie-dense toppings like high-fat sauces and cheese.

Factors That Determine a Patty's Caloric Content

Several key factors influence the number of calories in a hamburger patty without bun. The most significant of these are the beef's lean-to-fat ratio, the patty's weight, and the cooking method used.

The Lean-to-Fat Ratio

Ground beef is labeled with a ratio, such as 80/20, 85/15, or 90/10. The first number indicates the percentage of lean meat, while the second refers to the fat content. Fat contains more calories per gram than protein, so a higher fat percentage results in a higher calorie count. For example, a 4-ounce patty made from 80/20 ground beef will have more calories than one of the same size made from 90/10 ground beef.

80/20 Ground Beef: This common ratio is prized for its flavor and juiciness, but it has the highest fat and calorie content. A 4-ounce cooked patty typically has around 280-300 calories.
85/15 Ground Beef: A slightly leaner option, this ratio provides a good balance of flavor and lower fat. A 4-ounce cooked patty from 85/15 beef contains roughly 240-260 calories.
90/10 Ground Beef: This is a lean option with less fat. A 4-ounce patty will have fewer calories, approximately 200-220.
95/5 Ground Beef: As one of the leanest options, it is significantly lower in calories. A 4-ounce patty can be as low as 137 calories.

Patty Size

Naturally, a larger patty will contain more calories. The weight of the raw ground beef directly translates to the final calorie count. Patties are typically measured in ounces or grams, and it's essential to consider this alongside the fat ratio.

Cooking Method

The way a patty is cooked can also affect its calorie count. Grilling or pan-frying will cause some fat to render and drip away, slightly reducing the calorie total. However, if the patty is cooked in additional oil or butter, this will increase the final caloric value. Cooking method also impacts moisture and overall texture.

Comparison of Hamburger Patty Calories by Fat Ratio


Fat Ratio	4-oz (113g) Patty	6-oz (170g) Patty	8-oz (227g) Patty
80/20	280-300 calories	420-450 calories	560-600 calories
85/15	240-260 calories	360-390 calories	480-520 calories
90/10	200-220 calories	300-330 calories	400-440 calories
95/5	~137 calories	~205 calories	~274 calories

Beyond Beef: Other Patty Types

While beef is the most common, other meat and plant-based alternatives offer different nutritional profiles. These can be excellent options for those looking to manage their caloric intake without giving up the classic hamburger experience.

Turkey Patty: Ground turkey is often leaner than ground beef and is a popular choice for those seeking fewer calories. A 4-ounce patty made from 93% lean ground turkey can have approximately 180 calories.
Chicken Patty: Similar to turkey, ground chicken is a lean alternative. The calorie count will vary depending on whether dark or light meat is used and the lean-to-fat ratio.
Plant-Based Patty: The calories in plant-based patties can vary widely by brand and ingredients. Some are designed to mimic the fat content of traditional beef, while others are lower in calories and fat. Always check the nutrition label for specifics.
Bison Patty: Bison meat is notoriously lean and is often a lower-calorie, high-protein option compared to beef. A 4-ounce patty can contain around 150-170 calories.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice

When considering how many calories are in a hamburger patty without bun, the answer is not a single number but a range determined by several key variables. By understanding the impact of the lean-to-fat ratio, patty size, and cooking method, you can make an informed dietary choice that aligns with your health goals. For a low-calorie option, opt for a leaner beef or a turkey/bison patty. For a heartier meal, a standard 80/20 beef patty might be preferable. Remember that a plain patty, without a bun, sauces, or cheese, is a relatively clean and straightforward source of protein. For further dietary information and recommendations, consult the USDA FoodData Central database. The caloric information is a starting point, and what you choose to add to your bun-less burger will further affect the final nutritional tally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, cooking a hamburger patty can slightly reduce its calorie count. As the fat renders and drips away during cooking, the patty's overall fat content and, consequently, its calories are lowered.

A turkey patty is often considered healthier due to its lower fat content, resulting in fewer calories compared to most beef patties. The specific nutrition depends on the lean-to-fat ratio of both the turkey and the beef used.

For an 85/15 beef patty, a standard 4-ounce cooked portion contains approximately 240-260 calories. A larger 6-ounce patty would be closer to 360-390 calories.

A patty made from 95/5 lean ground beef or a very lean ground turkey or chicken patty will be among the lowest-calorie options available, especially when cooked without added oils or fats.

Adding a slice of cheese can significantly increase the calorie count of a bun-less burger. Most cheeses add between 50 and 100 calories per slice, depending on the type and size.

Yes, fast-food patties can have higher calorie counts than homemade ones due to larger portion sizes and often higher fat content. Always check the specific restaurant's nutritional information for accuracy.

Yes, a hamburger patty without a bun is a great option for a keto diet, as it is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. Choosing a higher-fat ratio patty can also help meet daily fat macro goals.