A Closer Look at the Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito
While the 420-calorie count for the Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito is a solid starting point, it's the finer details of its nutritional makeup that paint a more complete picture. The burrito features a blend of refried beans, premium Latin rice, warm nacho cheese sauce, and creamy jalapeño sauce, all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. Each component contributes to the final calorie count and overall macro profile.
For example, the nacho cheese sauce and creamy jalapeño sauce are significant contributors to the total fat content. The combination of the flour tortilla, rice, and beans makes for a high carbohydrate count, while the cheese and beans provide a decent amount of protein. Understanding these component parts can help you make more informed decisions about your meal, especially if you have specific dietary goals in mind.
Deconstructing the Macros
To fully grasp the nutritional impact of a cheesy bean burrito, it's helpful to break down the macronutrients. According to recent nutrition information from sources like Nutritionix and CalorieKing, the breakdown is as follows:
- Total Fat: Approximately 16-17 grams, which accounts for a significant portion of the total calories.
- Carbohydrates: Around 55-57 grams, primarily from the flour tortilla, rice, and beans.
- Protein: Roughly 9-11 grams, coming from the cheese and beans.
- Sodium: A relatively high amount, around 880-940 milligrams, depending on the data source.
Comparing the Cheesy Bean Burrito to Other Taco Bell Items
To put the Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito's nutrition into context, here is a comparison with other popular Taco Bell options. The calorie count and macros can vary slightly based on location and preparation, but these figures offer a general guide.
| Menu Item | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cheesy Bean & Rice Burrito | 420 | 17 | 55 | 9 |
| Bean Burrito | 360 | 10 | 54 | 13 |
| Beefy 5-Layer Burrito | 500 | 25 | 50 | 20 |
| Black Bean Crunchwrap Supreme® | 520 | 21 | 70 | 15 |
| Nacho Fries Supreme | 420 | 23 | 42 | 11 |
| Cheesy Roll Up | 180 | 9 | 19 | 8 |
As the table shows, the Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito is a mid-range item in terms of calories compared to other burritos. While it is higher in fat and carbs than a simpler option like the Bean Burrito, it is not as calorie-dense as the Beefy 5-Layer Burrito or Black Bean Crunchwrap Supreme®.
How to Modify Your Order for Fewer Calories
If you're watching your caloric intake, there are several ways to customize your Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito order to reduce the number of calories without sacrificing flavor entirely.
- "Fresco Style": One of the most effective ways to cut calories is to order your burrito "Fresco Style." This replaces the cheese and creamy sauces with a fresher, lower-calorie pico de gallo. This simple change can dramatically lower the fat and calorie count.
- Hold the sauces: If you still want the warmth of the nacho cheese, you can opt to hold the creamy jalapeño sauce. Conversely, you can request no nacho cheese if you are primarily concerned with reducing fat.
- Remove ingredients: For a more minimalist approach, you can request to remove either the rice or the cheese. Removing the rice will lower the carbohydrate count, while skipping the nacho cheese will reduce the fat and calorie content.
- Request light sauce: If you're unwilling to part with the creamy jalapeño sauce, simply ask for it to be applied lightly. This still provides the flavor you crave but with fewer calories.
Vegetarian and Calorie-Conscious Choices at Taco Bell
For those on a vegetarian diet, Taco Bell offers a wide variety of options beyond the Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito. However, vegetarian does not automatically mean low-calorie. The Black Bean Crunchwrap Supreme, for instance, contains over 100 more calories than the Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito. Other options to consider include the Black Beans and Rice side order, a lower-calorie alternative at 160 calories. The Veggie Power Menu Bowl is another option, though at 420 calories, it's comparable to the Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito while offering a different nutritional profile. The key is to check the nutrition facts for each item before ordering to ensure it aligns with your dietary needs. The official Taco Bell website features a nutrition calculator that allows you to easily view and modify menu items to see the nutritional impact of your choices.
Conclusion
The Taco Bell Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito contains 420 calories, with a macro breakdown that includes a moderate amount of fat, high carbohydrates, and a small serving of protein. For those watching their intake, simple modifications like ordering "Fresco Style" or removing sauces can effectively lower the overall calorie count. While a convenient and satisfying vegetarian option, it is not the lowest calorie item on the menu. Always remember to check the nutritional information for any fast-food item to make informed decisions that fit your diet and health goals.
