Five Guys is known for its juicy, customisable burgers, generous portions, and no-nonsense approach to fast food. But if you’re counting calories, it's important to know what you’re biting into. A Five Guys burger is far from modest when it comes to energy content  and the numbers can climb fast depending on your toppings.

Calorie Content by Type and Size

Five Guys offers several burger options, but the most popular ones include:

  • Hamburger (Two Patties): 840–880 calories
  • Cheeseburger (Two Patties, Cheese): 980–1,040 calories
  • Bacon Cheeseburger: 1,060–1,100 calories
  • Little Hamburger (One Patty): 480–530 calories
  • Little Cheeseburger: 550–600 calories

These values are before you add any sauces or extras like mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, or grilled onions  which can add anywhere from 50 to 200 extra calories, depending on how heavy you go.

Nutritional Breakdown of a Five Guys Cheeseburger

Per standard Cheeseburger (approx. 300g):
Calories: 1,020
Fat: 55g
Saturated Fat: 26g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Sugars: 9g
Protein: 48g
Salt: 1.5g

The burger is extremely high in fat, particularly saturated fat, and contains a heavy dose of protein. It’s rich and satisfying  but very calorie-dense.

What’s in a Five Guys Burger?

At its core, a Five Guys burger consists of fresh ground beef patties, American-style cheese, sesame seed bun, and any number of toppings. All burgers are grilled to order, and unlike many fast food chains, Five Guys doesn’t freeze its meat.

Common ingredients include:

  • Beef: 100% ground chuck
  • Bun: Enriched white bread with sesame seeds
  • Cheese: American processed cheese
  • Toppings: Lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, mushrooms, bacon, sauces

Each topping can change the calorie and nutrient profile, so the final number is rarely the same twice.

Benefits of a Five Guys Burger

A Five Guys burger provides a solid amount of protein, which supports muscle repair and satiety. The fresh beef, free of preservatives or additives, is also a better choice than ultra-processed patties. The burgers are customisable, meaning you can make lighter choices if you’re careful with toppings.

Downsides of a Five Guys Burger

The calorie content is extremely high even before chips or a drink are added. Many burgers exceed 1,000 calories, which is over half of the average adult’s daily recommended intake. The saturated fat content is also excessive, potentially contributing to increased cholesterol and cardiovascular risk when eaten regularly.

The buns are refined and low in fibre, and extras like mayonnaise, bacon, or multiple cheese slices push the numbers even higher without providing meaningful nutritional value.

Impact on Your Diet

A Five Guys burger can easily throw off your calorie balance for the day. While not inherently “bad,” its nutritional density means it’s best treated as an occasional indulgence. If you’re actively managing your weight, aiming for a calorie deficit, or watching your fat intake, a full-size Five Guys burger might not be the best choice without major modifications.

Glycaemic Index Rating

The Five Guys burger as a whole has a medium glycaemic index, mostly due to the white bread bun. The fat and protein content slows down the glucose release somewhat, but the bun alone would sit in the mid-range. This means it’s not ideal for low-GI diets, and it can cause moderate blood sugar spikes, particularly if paired with fries and a sugary drink.

Healthier Alternatives

To lighten the load without missing out entirely, you could:

  • Order a Little Burger (one patty)
  • Skip cheese and bacon
  • Avoid mayo and sugary sauces
  • Choose extra veggies like mushrooms or lettuce
  • Ask for a lettuce wrap instead of the bun (Five Guys offers this)

These changes can cut hundreds of calories while still letting you enjoy the core experience.

Summary

So, how many calories are in a Five Guys burger? Anywhere from 500 to 1,100 calories, depending on your order. While the taste is unbeatable for many, the calorie and fat content are serious considerations. If you’re watching your diet, portion control and smart customisation are key. Save it for a treat, not a regular habit, and you can still enjoy it without blowing your goals.

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