Navigating the Menu: Finding the Healthiest Taco Bell Burritos
While Taco Bell might not be the first place you think of for a healthy meal, it offers surprising flexibility that allows for more nutritious choices. The key is understanding how to order smart by leveraging the menu and making simple substitutions. The 'Fresco style' option is a game-changer, swapping out creamy, high-fat dairy products like cheese and sour cream for fresh diced tomatoes. This single modification can drastically reduce the calorie, saturated fat, and sodium content of many items, including burritos.
The Healthiest Stand-alone Burrito Options
For those looking for a healthy burrito straight from the menu, these choices stand out due to their ingredient profile and lower calorie count before customization. The focus is on burritos that provide a good source of protein and fiber while keeping overall calories and fat in check.
- Bean Burrito: A vegetarian classic, the Bean Burrito offers a substantial dose of protein and fiber from the refried beans. A standard version has around 350-360 calories and 13 grams of protein. Ordering it 'Fresco style' is an easy way to eliminate the cheese and reduce the fat and calories even further. For a vegan-friendly option, simply request it without cheese.
- Burrito Supreme (Fresco Style): This is another excellent choice for those seeking a burrito with more toppings. The standard Burrito Supreme comes with seasoned beef and beans, but ordering it 'Fresco style' replaces the sour cream and cheese with fresh pico de gallo. You can choose a leaner protein like chicken or steak instead of beef to further reduce saturated fat. An approximate 'Fresco' version with beef has around 325-340 calories and 14 grams of protein.
- Cheesy Toasted Breakfast Burrito with Potato: A surprising and filling breakfast option for vegetarians. With eggs, cheese, and potatoes, it provides a solid vegetarian protein source for 340 calories. For a healthier profile, consider swapping out some of the creamy fillings for fresher toppings like pico de gallo.
Customizing Your Way to a Healthier Burrito
Customization is where you can truly take control of your burrito's nutritional content. Taco Bell's online and app-based ordering systems make it easy to see exactly how modifications affect the total calories and other macronutrients.
Simple Customization Rules:
- Go 'Fresco Style': This is the single most impactful change you can make. It removes sour cream, cheese, and creamy sauces, replacing them with diced tomatoes, which saves on calories and saturated fat.
- Choose a Leaner Protein: Swapping seasoned beef for grilled chicken or black beans is a smart move. Grilled chicken is typically lower in saturated fat, while black beans add a significant amount of fiber and are a good source of plant-based protein.
- Load Up on Veggies: Ask for extra lettuce, onions, and tomatoes to add volume and micronutrients without adding many calories. Adding fresh pico de gallo is also an excellent, low-calorie way to boost flavor.
- Hold the Heavy Stuff: Skipping the rice or asking for a lighter portion can reduce the overall carbohydrate load. Many burritos contain heavy, calorie-dense ingredients, and removing unnecessary ones helps immensely.
Nutritional Comparison of Burrito Options
This table compares the nutritional profiles of common Taco Bell burritos, including customized 'Fresco' options, to illustrate how small changes can add up.
| Burrito Option | Calories | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Fiber (g) | Sodium (mg) | Customization Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bean Burrito | 360 | 13 | 10 | 11 | 1000 | Omit cheese for a vegan, lower-fat option. |
| Bean Burrito (Fresco) | 320 | 13 | 9 | 9 | 950 | Healthiest vegetarian choice, lower in fat and sodium. |
| Burrito Supreme w/ Beef | ~400 | ~14 | ~11 | ~9 | ~1040 | Very high in sodium before customization. |
| Burrito Supreme (Fresco) | 325-340 | 14 | 9.4 | 7 | 1080 | Excellent low-calorie, high-protein choice. |
| Chicken Enchilada Burrito | 380 | 19 | 12 | 3 | 1140 | Highest protein in this list; request no cheese/sauce. |
| Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito | 420 | 9 | 17 | 6 | 940 | Higher carb and fat; remove creamy sauce/cheese for better macros. |
Conclusion: Making the Best Burrito Choice for Your Diet
While the Bean Burrito, especially when ordered 'Fresco style', often emerges as a top contender for the healthiest burrito at Taco Bell due to its high fiber and lower calories, the best choice ultimately depends on your specific dietary needs. For those prioritizing higher protein and don't mind a slightly higher sodium count, the Chicken Enchilada Burrito is a strong option, especially when customized. By understanding the impact of key modifications like swapping protein, eliminating dairy, and adding fresh vegetables, you can enjoy a satisfying fast-food burrito that better aligns with your health goals. Always remember to check Taco Bell's official nutrition calculator for the most up-to-date and personalized nutritional information for your customized order.
What are the key strategies for ordering a healthy burrito at Taco Bell?
- Order 'Fresco Style': Requesting your burrito 'Fresco style' replaces dairy-based sauces and cheese with fresh diced tomatoes, significantly reducing calories, fat, and sodium.
- Choose Leaner Protein: Opt for grilled chicken or black beans instead of seasoned beef to lower saturated fat content.
- Focus on Fiber: Black beans are a great source of fiber. Ask for extra beans or add more vegetables to increase your fiber intake.
- Hydrate Wisely: Skip sugary sodas and opt for water, unsweetened iced tea, or a diet soda to avoid unnecessary calories and sugar.
Are Taco Bell's beans vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, Taco Bell's refried beans are American Vegetarian Association (AVA) certified vegetarian, meaning they do not contain any animal byproducts. This makes the Bean Burrito and other bean-based items a safe option for vegetarians and vegans (with the removal of cheese).
How can I reduce the sodium in my burrito?
To reduce sodium, the best approach is to order 'Fresco style,' which removes salty cheese and sour cream. You can also be mindful of extra salt added during preparation and opt for less sauce, as sauces can be high in sodium. Taco Bell’s official nutrition calculator can also help you track the sodium levels in your customized order.
What is the lowest calorie burrito on the Taco Bell menu?
The Bean Burrito ordered 'Fresco style' is one of the lowest-calorie burritos available, typically around 320-330 calories. By removing the cheese and sour cream, you cut down on fat and calories while still getting a filling meal with protein and fiber.
Is the Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito a healthy option?
While vegetarian and relatively low-cost, the Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito is not the healthiest due to its higher calorie, fat, and sodium content from the cheese and creamy sauces. For a healthier version, ask for it 'Fresco style' and hold the rice to reduce carbohydrates and calories.
Can I eat Taco Bell on a diet?
Yes, it is possible to eat Taco Bell while on a diet, particularly by focusing on lower-calorie options and utilizing the customization tips mentioned. Ordering meals like the Fresco Bean Burrito or a customized Power Menu Bowl allows for a satisfying meal that aligns with health-conscious goals. The key is moderation and making informed choices.
Can I get grilled chicken in a burrito?
Yes, you can swap the standard seasoned beef for grilled chicken in most burrito options. This is a healthier choice as grilled chicken is a leaner protein source than seasoned beef, helping reduce saturated fat.
