The Whataburger Patty Melt is a popular menu item that has gained a reputation for its indulgent taste. Many customers wonder about its calorie content and nutritional profile.
A Whataburger Patty Melt contains 950 calories, with 61 grams of fat and 45 grams of carbohydrates. This sandwich packs a significant caloric punch, making it a hearty option for those looking for a filling meal.
The nutritional composition of the Patty Melt includes a mix of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. It provides 87% of the recommended daily value for protein and is also a good source of calcium and iron. For those monitoring their intake, understanding these nutrition facts can help make informed dining choices at Whataburger.
Nutritional Profile of the Whataburger Patty Melt
The Whataburger Patty Melt is a calorie-dense sandwich with significant amounts of fat, carbohydrates, and protein. Its nutritional content varies depending on the specific version ordered.
Calorie Content and Breakdown
A standard Whataburger Patty Melt contains 940 calories. This represents a substantial portion of the average daily caloric intake for most adults.
The calorie breakdown is:
- 59% from fat
- 21% from protein
- 19% from carbohydrates
For those opting for the meal version, the calorie count increases dramatically. A Whataburger Patty Melt Meal packs 1790 calories.
Fat Composition
The Patty Melt is high in fat content. It contains:
- Total Fat: Approximately 62 grams
- Saturated Fat: Around 23 grams
- Trans Fat: About 2 grams
This fat content contributes significantly to the sandwich’s calorie count. The high saturated and trans fat levels are noteworthy from a nutritional perspective.
Carbohydrates and Fiber
Carbohydrates make up a smaller but still significant portion of the Patty Melt’s nutritional profile.
- Total Carbohydrates: Roughly 44-45 grams
- Dietary Fiber: Approximately 2 grams
- Sugars: Content varies, but can be substantial in the meal version
The low fiber content is typical for fast food items. The sugar content increases significantly when ordered as part of a meal.
Protein Content
The Whataburger Patty Melt provides a substantial amount of protein.
- Protein: About 49-50 grams
This represents a significant portion of the recommended daily protein intake for most adults. The high protein content comes primarily from the beef patty.
Additional nutrients of note include:
- Sodium: Approximately 1520 milligrams
- Cholesterol: Content varies but is likely high due to the beef and cheese
The Patty Melt also provides some essential nutrients like calcium (25% of daily value) and iron (90% of daily value).
Key Ingredients and Allergens
The Whataburger Patty Melt contains several main components and potential allergens. Understanding these elements is crucial for those with dietary restrictions or food sensitivities.
Primary Components
The Whataburger Patty Melt consists of five key ingredients. The centerpiece is a 100% USDA inspected ground beef patty. Melted Monterey Jack cheese adds a creamy texture and mild flavor.
Creamy Pepper Sauce contributes a tangy, spicy kick. The sandwich is served on Texas Toast, made from enriched wheat flour. This thick-cut bread is grilled to a golden brown.
Grilled onions round out the flavor profile, adding a sweet and savory element. Each component plays a specific role in creating the Patty Melt’s distinctive taste and texture.
Allergy Information
The Whataburger Patty Melt contains several common allergens. Wheat is present in the Texas Toast, which may also contain gluten. Soy is found in small amounts in the bread and potentially in other components.
Milk allergens are present in the Monterey Jack cheese and possibly the Creamy Pepper Sauce. Eggs may be used in the bread or sauce.
Individuals with allergies should be aware that cross-contamination is possible during preparation. The restaurant uses shared equipment for various menu items.
MSG is not listed as an ingredient in the Patty Melt. However, those sensitive to MSG should consult with Whataburger directly for the most up-to-date information.
Vitamins and Minerals
The Whataburger Patty Melt contains several essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to daily nutritional needs. These micronutrients play important roles in various bodily functions and overall health.
Essential Vitamins
The Whataburger Patty Melt provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, offering 404% of the daily value in a single meal. This vitamin is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health.
Vitamin C content is also present, with the patty melt providing 44% of the daily recommended intake. This antioxidant vitamin supports the immune system and aids in collagen production.
Minerals Content
Calcium is a standout mineral in the Whataburger Patty Melt, providing 27% of the daily value in a single serving. This mineral is essential for strong bones and teeth, as well as proper muscle and nerve function.
Iron content is significant, with the patty melt offering 90% of the daily recommended intake. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and overall energy production.
Potassium levels are not explicitly mentioned in the available data. However, this mineral is likely present in small amounts due to the meat and cheese components of the patty melt.
Diet and Health Considerations
The Whataburger Patty Melt is high in calories, fat, and sodium. Consuming it regularly can impact weight management and overall health. There are ways to enjoy this menu item while being mindful of nutritional concerns.
Weight Management Options
A single Whataburger Patty Melt contains 1100 calories. For those tracking their intake, this represents a significant portion of daily calorie needs. The sandwich accounts for approximately 55 Weight Watchers SmartPoints.
To burn off the calories from one Patty Melt, an individual would need to run for about 97 minutes or walk for 157 minutes. This calorie burn time highlights the energy density of the menu item.
For those following a low-carb diet, it’s important to note that the Patty Melt contains a substantial amount of carbohydrates. The exact net carb count isn’t provided, but the bread and sauce contribute significantly to the carb content.
Healthier Alternatives
Diners looking for lower-calorie options at Whataburger have several choices. Ordering a single patty instead of double can reduce calories and fat. Removing one slice of Texas Toast also cuts down on carbohydrates.
For those with gluten sensitivities, a gluten-free Patty Melt option is not available. However, Whataburger offers some items that can be modified to be gluten-free, such as burgers without buns.
Choosing grilled chicken instead of beef, opting for a side salad in place of fries, and selecting unsweetened beverages can significantly reduce the meal’s calorie count. These swaps help create a more balanced option while still enjoying the Whataburger experience.
Culinary Context
The Whataburger Patty Melt stands out as a distinctive sandwich on the Whataburger menu. It combines classic elements with unique twists, making it a popular choice among fast food enthusiasts.
Comparison with Similar Foods
The Patty Melt differs from standard cheeseburgers by using Texas toast instead of a bun. This gives it a crispier texture and richer flavor. Compared to a classic tuna melt, the Patty Melt offers a heartier, beef-based option.
In terms of calories, the Whataburger Patty Melt contains around 940-1100 calories, depending on the specific variation. This is generally higher than many standard fast food burgers or sandwiches.
Similar sandwiches like the Frisco Melt from Steak ‘n Shake or Culver’s Sourdough Melt typically have fewer calories, ranging from 600-800.
Recipes and Variations
The standard Whataburger Patty Melt recipe includes:
- Two beef patties
- Monterey Jack and American cheese
- Grilled onions
- Creamy pepper sauce
- Texas toast
Variations exist, such as a single patty version for those seeking fewer calories. Some customers customize their order by adding bacon or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Home cooks can recreate this sandwich by grilling seasoned beef patties and assembling them with cheese, onions, and sauce between slices of buttered, toasted bread. Using a griddle or cast-iron skillet helps achieve the signature crispy exterior.
