How many calories in a California burrito from Mexican food?

October 31, 2025 •

4 min read

With some reports showing a single California burrito can exceed 1,100 calories, this popular Mexican fast-food item is far from a low-calorie choice. Understanding how many calories in a California burrito from Mexican food is key for anyone watching their intake, as the final count varies significantly based on ingredients and portion size. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown to help you make informed decisions.

Quick Summary

This article explores the caloric content of a California burrito, examining the impact of its key components, including carne asada, French fries, and cheese. It provides an average calorie range, offers a comparison to other burrito types, and suggests ways to reduce the overall calorie count while still enjoying the flavor.

Key Points

Average Calorie Range: A typical California burrito contains between 800 and over 1,500 calories, varying by size and ingredients.
Key Calorie Contributors: The main sources of calories are carne asada, the signature fried French fries, and full-fat cheese and sour cream.
Ingredient Impact: The type of protein (carne asada vs. chicken) and how it's cooked affects the overall fat and calorie content.
Healthy Swaps: To reduce calories, use leaner meat, bake or air-fry the potatoes, and use low-fat dairy or Greek yogurt substitutes.
Homemade vs. Restaurant: Making a burrito at home gives you full control over ingredient quality and portion sizes, which can lead to a much healthier meal.
Size Matters: A larger tortilla and generous portions of rich fillings will result in a significantly higher calorie count.
Alternatives: Consider a burrito bowl to eliminate the high-calorie tortilla or opt for a leaner taco choice.

The California burrito is a staple of San Diego-style Mexican cuisine, known for its generous filling of carne asada, cheese, and—most notably—French fries. While undeniably delicious, its caloric content can be quite high, making it a significant consideration for those on a strict diet. The average California burrito from a typical Mexican food eatery can range from 800 to over 1,500 calories, with most falling somewhere in the middle.

Factors that influence the final calorie count

The total number of calories in a California burrito isn't fixed; it's a dynamic figure influenced by several key factors. The specific cooking methods and portion sizes used by different restaurants play a major role in the nutritional outcome of your meal. Knowing what to look for can help you better estimate its impact on your daily calorie budget.

The impact of protein choice

Carne Asada: The most traditional protein, carne asada, can vary significantly in its fat content depending on the cut of beef used and how it's prepared. Some versions are leaner, while others are cooked with more oil, adding extra calories.
Chicken or Pork: Swapping carne asada for grilled chicken breast can significantly reduce the total calories and saturated fat, as chicken is a naturally leaner meat. Carnitas (pork) is another alternative, though its caloric density will depend on the preparation, which often involves frying.

The contribution of french fries

The inclusion of French fries is a defining characteristic of the California burrito, and it's also a major source of calories. Fries are typically fried in oil, and their starchy nature packs a substantial caloric punch.

The effect of cheese and sour cream

Adding shredded cheese and sour cream increases the fat and sodium content. These dairy products contribute significantly to the overall calorie load, especially if a generous amount is used. Some restaurants pile on the cheese, while others are more conservative.

Size and tortilla type

The size of the flour tortilla itself matters. A larger, thicker tortilla will have more calories than a smaller, thinner one. Furthermore, while the traditional recipe doesn't use them, some modern takes might incorporate alternative tortillas, like whole wheat, which can change the nutritional profile slightly.

Making a healthier California burrito at home

For those who love the flavor but not the calorie count, making a homemade version is an excellent option for control. You can manage portions and swap high-calorie ingredients for healthier alternatives without sacrificing taste.

Bake, don't fry: Instead of deep-frying your French fries, bake them in the oven or an air fryer. This simple change can cut a significant number of calories and fat.
Leaner protein: Use a lean cut of beef or opt for grilled chicken breast to reduce the saturated fat. You can marinate the meat for flavor without adding extra oil.
Portion control is key: Manage the amount of cheese and sour cream you add, or use a low-fat version of Greek yogurt as a lighter substitute for sour cream.
Consider a burrito bowl: Ditch the tortilla entirely and serve the ingredients in a bowl over a bed of shredded lettuce. This eliminates the calories from the tortilla and lets you focus on the other delicious components.
Go green: Add extra fresh vegetables like pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, or sautéed bell peppers to increase volume and fiber without adding many calories.

Comparison: California Burrito vs. Other Mexican Dishes

To put the California burrito's caloric density into perspective, let's compare it with other popular Mexican food items. This table demonstrates how seemingly similar items can have very different nutritional profiles.


Mexican Dish	Typical Calorie Range	Key Calorie Sources	Key Nutritional Notes
California Burrito	800 - 1500+	Carne asada, cheese, sour cream, fried potatoes	High in fat and sodium
Carne Asada Taco (each)	150 - 250	Carne asada, tortilla, guacamole	Smaller portion, fewer components
Fish Taco (each)	200 - 300	Fried fish, tartar sauce, tortilla	Calories influenced by frying and sauce
Burrito Bowl	600 - 900+	Rice, beans, meat, toppings	No flour tortilla, customizable fillings
Nachos	900 - 1500+	Chips, cheese, meat, sour cream, guacamole	Highly variable; depends on amount of toppings
Cheese Quesadilla	400 - 700	Tortilla, cheese, butter/oil	Less filling but high fat content

Conclusion

A California burrito from a Mexican food establishment can easily be a high-calorie meal, with estimates often exceeding 1,000 calories due to the combination of rich ingredients like carne asada, fried potatoes, and cheese. The exact number depends on the restaurant's specific recipe, portion sizes, and preparation methods. While it is a satisfying and flavorful option, those concerned with their calorie intake should be mindful of its components. For a healthier alternative, consider making a homemade version where you can control the ingredients, bake the fries instead of frying them, and manage portion sizes effectively. Understanding the key drivers of its caloric content allows you to enjoy this delicious meal while making informed choices for your diet.

Here is a useful guide for building healthier meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

A California burrito typically contains anywhere from 800 to over 1,500 calories, with the average often falling around 1,100 calories, depending on the restaurant and portion size.

The French fries are a major contributor to the high calorie count, as they are typically deep-fried and starchy. The carne asada, cheese, and sour cream also add significant fat and calories.

No, a California burrito is generally not healthier. It contains high-fat carne asada, fried potatoes, and generous portions of cheese and sour cream, making it much more calorically dense than a standard bean and cheese burrito.

Yes, you can significantly lower the calorie count by making a homemade version. Options include baking or air-frying the potatoes, using a leaner cut of meat or grilled chicken, and substituting low-fat Greek yogurt for sour cream.

A burrito bowl can have fewer calories because it removes the flour tortilla, which is a key source of carbohydrates and calories. The final count depends on the specific ingredients and toppings chosen.

The signature ingredient that distinguishes a California burrito is the inclusion of French fries inside the wrap, along with carne asada, cheese, and sour cream. A regular burrito usually contains rice and beans.

No, due to its high fat, sodium, and calorie content, a California burrito is not typically considered a healthy meal choice. It is best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple.