Finding healthy options at fast-food restaurants can be challenging, but Taco Bell offers several burritos that can be made healthier with a few simple changes. Modifying ingredients is key to creating a healthier Taco Bell burrito, focusing on lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and fresh vegetables while limiting high-calorie, high-fat sauces and cheese. Ordering 'Fresco Style' is one of the most effective strategies for a healthier meal. This option replaces cheese and sour cream with fresh pico de gallo, which lowers the fat and calorie count without affecting the flavor. A customized Bean Burrito or a Burrito Supreme are the best choices for a satisfying meal that fits your dietary goals.
Healthiest Burrito Options at Taco Bell
To identify the healthiest burrito, consider the base menu item and how it can be customized. The following burritos are great starting points for a nutritious meal.
The Bean Burrito
The Bean Burrito is a vegetarian option with a good nutritional base. It contains warm refried beans, red sauce, and diced onions. The standard version includes cheese, but ordering it 'Fresco Style' removes the cheese, making it a high-fiber and filling option. Beans are a source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, which promotes satiety and digestive health.
- Original ingredients: Refried beans, red sauce, onions, and cheese.
- Healthy customization: Order 'Fresco Style' to remove cheese and add tomatoes.
- Bonus tip: Request black beans instead of refried for more fiber.
Burrito Supreme, Fresco Style
For meat-based options, a customized Burrito Supreme is a good choice. A standard Burrito Supreme includes seasoned beef, refried beans, red sauce, lettuce, and onions, plus sour cream and cheese. Ordering it 'Fresco Style' removes the cheese and sour cream, reducing fat and calories. This modification makes the burrito a lighter meal that still offers protein and flavor.
- Base ingredients: Seasoned beef, refried beans, red sauce, lettuce, onions.
- Healthy customization: Order 'Fresco Style' to swap sour cream and cheese for tomatoes.
- Lean protein swap: Substitute seasoned beef with grilled chicken for a leaner protein.
How to Order for Maximum Health Benefits
Making informed choices requires more than picking the right base item. Here are tips for a healthier Taco Bell burrito.
- Prioritize Protein: Choose lean proteins such as grilled chicken or plant-based options like black beans. These ingredients are more satiating and provide essential nutrients compared to seasoned ground beef or high-fat options.
- Add Vegetables: Include extra vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. These additions increase fiber and micronutrients without adding many calories.
- Choose Beans: Beans are rich in fiber, which helps keep you full and aids digestion. Opt for black beans over refried beans for a lower sodium option.
- Control Sauces: Creamy sauces like sour cream and nacho cheese are high in calories and fat. Omit these or request them on the side to control your intake. Using flavorful salsa is a good alternative.
- Use the Online Calculator: Taco Bell's nutrition calculator allows you to see how your customizations affect the total calories, fat, and sodium. This tool is valuable for planning a meal that aligns with your health goals.
Comparison of Standard vs. Health-Optimized Burritos
| Feature | Standard Beefy 5-Layer Burrito | Customized Burrito Supreme (Fresco Style) | Bean Burrito (Fresco Style) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 490 kcal | approx. 325 kcal | approx. 350 kcal |
| Fat | 18g | approx. 9.4g | approx. 10g |
| Protein | 18g | approx. 14g | approx. 13g |
| Fiber | 4g | approx. 7g | approx. 8g |
| Primary Protein | Seasoned beef | Seasoned beef (or opt for grilled chicken) | Black or refried beans |
| Customization | Difficult to make substantially healthier | Easy to make lighter via 'Fresco Style' | Easily made vegan by removing cheese |
| Healthy Fats | None specified | Can add guacamole or avocado | Can add guacamole or avocado |
Conclusion: The Path to Healthier Eating
While a standard burrito at Taco Bell might not be the healthiest option, simple customizations can make a difference. The healthiest burrito option should include lean protein, high-fiber vegetables, and limited cheese and creamy sauces. Ordering a Bean Burrito or Burrito Supreme 'Fresco Style' and swapping beef for grilled chicken are effective strategies. Use Taco Bell's nutrition calculator to create a meal that aligns with your dietary goals, proving that fast food can be enjoyed with a health-conscious approach.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which burrito is lowest in calories at Taco Bell?
For a standard menu item, the Bean Burrito is one of the lowest-calorie options, and ordering it 'Fresco Style' by removing the cheese can further reduce the calorie count.
What does ordering 'Fresco Style' do to my burrito?
Ordering 'Fresco Style' replaces high-fat, high-calorie ingredients like cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise-based sauces with fresh pico de gallo (diced tomatoes, onion, and cilantro), which significantly lowers calories and fat.
Are the refried beans at Taco Bell a healthy choice?
Taco Bell's refried beans are vegetarian and a good fiber source, but they can be high in sodium. Requesting black beans instead can provide more fiber.
Is chicken or steak a healthier protein in a burrito?
Grilled chicken is generally a leaner protein choice than steak, making it a better option for reducing fat and calories. Seasoned beef is often higher in fat as well.
How can I reduce the sodium in my Taco Bell burrito?
To reduce sodium, focus on customization. Ordering 'Fresco Style' and removing cheese, sour cream, and extra sauces helps significantly. Adding fresh vegetables and beans can also increase volume without a major sodium increase.
What is a good vegetarian option for a healthy Taco Bell burrito?
The Bean Burrito, ordered 'Fresco Style' to remove cheese, is a great vegetarian option, high in fiber from the beans. For a vegan option, ensure no cheese or creamy sauces are included.
Can I still get a flavorful burrito without the creamy sauces?
Yes, you can still enjoy a flavorful burrito by asking for extra red sauce or adding a side of guacamole for healthy fats and flavor. The fresh pico de gallo from the 'Fresco Style' customization also adds a bright, fresh flavor.
