Del Taco's Beef and Bean Burritos: A Calorie Deep Dive
For many fast-food enthusiasts, a beef and bean burrito from Del Taco is a satisfying and flavorful meal. However, for those monitoring their diet, the nutritional details are crucial. The classic option, known as the Del Combo Beef & Bean Burrito, provides a substantial number of calories, but it's important to understand the full picture, including its macronutrient breakdown and ingredient list, to make truly informed decisions.
The Standard Del Combo Beef & Bean Burrito
The standard Del Combo Beef & Bean Burrito is a staple on the Del Taco menu. The burrito is made with seasoned beef, slow-cooked pinto beans, grated cheddar cheese, and red sauce, all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. This combination gives it a rich flavor but also contributes to its overall calorie count.
Here is the nutritional breakdown for one Del Combo Beef & Bean Burrito, based on data from various nutritional trackers:
- Calories: 470 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 1170mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 53g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 22g
The macronutrient composition of this burrito is roughly 48% carbohydrates, 32% fat, and 20% protein. While it offers a good source of protein and fiber, the sodium content is quite high, exceeding 50% of the daily recommended value in a single serving.
The Epic Combo Beef & Bean Burrito
For those with a bigger appetite, Del Taco also offers an Epic Combo Beef & Bean Burrito. This larger version includes additional ingredients like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, green sauce, and sour cream. Unsurprisingly, the extra size and additions come with a significant calorie increase.
The Epic version's nutritional information looks very different:
- Calories: 900 kcal
- Total Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Sodium: 2080mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 91g
- Dietary Fiber: 16g
- Protein: 43g
This burrito's high calorie and fat content place it firmly on the higher end of fast-food menu items, a significant step up from the standard version.
Comparison Table: Del Combo vs. Epic Combo
| Nutrient | Del Combo Beef & Bean Burrito | Epic Combo Beef & Bean Burrito |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 470 kcal | 900 kcal |
| Total Fat | 16g | 38g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 19g |
| Sodium | 1170mg | 2080mg |
| Carbohydrates | 53g | 91g |
| Fiber | 8g | 16g |
| Protein | 22g | 43g |
Tips for Reducing Calories in Your Burrito
If you love the flavor but not the calorie count, there are ways to customize your order to make it healthier.
- Skip the cheese and sour cream: These dairy products add a considerable amount of fat and calories. Opting out can make a noticeable difference.
- Order the Bean & Cheese Burrito instead: A simple bean and cheese burrito, especially the Kid's version, has a much lower calorie count. The Kid's Bean & Cheese has only 320 calories, and the 1/2 lb version has 440 calories, both typically less than the beef and bean combo.
- Add fresh vegetables: Load up on fresh ingredients like lettuce and tomatoes to add volume and nutrients without piling on the calories.
- Try a bowl version: If available, a burrito bowl eliminates the calorie-dense tortilla, which can significantly lower the overall calorie and carb count.
- Use lighter sauces: Request a lighter portion of sauce or opt for a less creamy, lower-calorie salsa option.
How Del Taco's Burrito Stacks Up
When comparing Del Taco's beef and bean burritos to other fast-food offerings, it's clear there is a wide range of nutritional profiles. A classic Taco Bell Bean Burrito, for example, is often cited as a more moderate option. Ultimately, the healthiness of any fast-food burrito depends on its size and ingredients, reinforcing the importance of checking nutritional information before ordering. The Epic Combo is a meal best reserved for occasional treats, while the smaller Del Combo is a more manageable indulgence. The choice between a higher-calorie, more loaded burrito and a simpler version depends on individual dietary needs and preferences.
Conclusion
A Del Combo Beef & Bean Burrito from Del Taco contains 470 calories, a moderate figure for a fast-food main course. The Epic Combo, however, nearly doubles this, coming in at a hefty 900 calories. By being aware of these numbers and the ingredient differences, consumers can make informed choices, opting for a smaller portion or customizing their order to better fit their dietary goals. The key takeaway is that not all burritos are created equal, and size and toppings can dramatically impact the final nutritional stats.
For more detailed nutritional information, consult the official Del Taco nutrition page.