Calorie comparison
Mac And Cheese vs Quinoa
Per 100 grams, quinoa is the lighter choice by 44 calories, while mac and cheese delivers more protein. The right pick depends on your goal — fewer calories for a cut, more protein to stay full.
Per 100 grams
| Per 100 g | Mac And Cheese | Quinoa |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 164 | 120 |
| Protein | 6.7 g | 4.4 g |
| Carbs | 20 g | 21 g |
| Fat | 6.6 g | 1.9 g |
Orange highlights the "better for a calorie deficit" value (fewer calories, fat and carbs; more protein). Your goals decide what "better" means.
Per typical serving
🧀 Mac And Cheese
1 cup (198 g)
325 cal
13.3 g protein · 39.6 g carbs · 13.1 g fat
🌾 Quinoa
1 cup cooked (185 g)
222 cal
8.1 g protein · 38.9 g carbs · 3.5 g fat
Frequently asked
Which has more calories, mac and cheese or quinoa?
Per 100 g, mac and cheese has 164 calories and quinoa has 120. Quinoa is lower in calories.
Which has more protein, mac and cheese or quinoa?
Mac And Cheese has 6.7 g of protein per 100 g; quinoa has 4.4 g. Mac And Cheese wins on protein.
Is mac and cheese or quinoa better for weight loss?
For a calorie deficit, the lower-calorie, higher-protein option usually helps you stay full on fewer calories. Here that leans toward quinoa — but portion size matters more than which food you pick.
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