How Many Calories Are in a Bean and Cheese Burrito?

The bean and cheese burrito is a popular tex-mex meal that can satisfy your cravings in an instant. But if you’re watching your waistline, you may wonder just how many calories are packed into one of these hearty wraps. Let’s take a close look at the nutrition facts so you know what you’re getting when you bite into a bean and cheese burrito.

The Average Calorie Count in a Bean and Cheese Burrito

On average, a typical bean and cheese burrito contains 300-400 calories. This estimate is based on a standard burrito made with the following ingredients

• 10-inch flour tortilla
• Refried beans
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• Onions, tomatoes, lettuce or other veggies

The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients used, portion sizes, cooking methods, and any additional toppings. But in general, a medium bean and cheese burrito averages about 350 calories

What Impacts the Calories in a Bean and Cheese Burrito

Several factors influence the number of calories in a bean and cheese burrito:

• Tortilla size: A large 12-inch tortilla can add 80+ more calories versus a smaller 8-inch tortilla.

• Fillings: More cheese, sour cream, guacamole, etc. increases calories.

• Cooking method Frying adds about 120 more calories than baking

• Portion size: Burritos from restaurants are often 2-3x bigger than homemade.

• Ingredients: Extras like rice, sauce, meat can significantly increase calories.

Checking nutrition labels or asking about preparation methods can help identify higher and lower calorie options.

Calorie Range at Popular Restaurants

To give you a sense of the calorie variability, here are some estimates from popular restaurants:

• Chipotle steak burrito: ~1,000 calories
• Qdoba grilled chicken burrito: ~700 calories
• Taco Bell bean burrito: ~350 calories
• Freebirds veggie burrito: ~650 calories
• Local burrito food trucks: ~500-1,000 calories

As you can see, calories can range widely from 300 to over 1,000 depending on the restaurant.

How to Order a Lower Calorie Bean and Cheese Burrito

If you want to enjoy a bean and cheese burrito without all the extra calories, consider these tips:

• Choose a small or medium size.
• Opt for grilled or baked instead of fried.
• Load up on veggies like lettuce, tomato, onion, peppers.
• Skip high-calorie extras like guacamole, queso, sour cream.
• Ask for light sauce or sauce on the side.
• Choose corn tortillas which are lower in calories than flour.
• Turn it into a burrito bowl without the tortilla.

With some simple modifications, you can easily shave off 200-300 calories from a traditional bean and cheese burrito.

Nutrition Benefits of Bean and Cheese Burritos

When made with nutritious ingredients, bean and cheese burritos can provide:

• Protein: Beans, cheese, meat or veggie options all add protein.

• Fiber: Fillings like beans, brown rice, whole wheat tortillas provide fiber.

• Vitamins: Tomatoes, peppers, onions, cilantro add vitamin C and antioxidants.

• Minerals: You’ll get calcium from cheese and iron from beans.

• Phytonutrients: Avocados, spinach, corn provide extra nutrients.

Enjoying burritos in moderation as part of a balanced diet can be a tasty way to get in important nutrients.

Healthy Homemade Bean and Cheese Burrito Recipe

To maximize nutrition and minimize calories, make your own healthy bean and cheese burritos with these tips:

• Choose 100% whole wheat or high-fiber tortillas.

• Load up on veggies like spinach, kale, zucchini, peppers.

• Use black or pinto beans and reduced-fat cheese.

• Add in extras like salsa, cilantro, lime juice.

• Grill or bake instead of frying.

• Swap in chicken, shrimp, or tofu for vegetarian protein.

With wholesome ingredients and sensible portions, you can feel good about enjoying homemade bean and cheese burritos while maintaining a healthy diet.

So next time your Tex-Mex craving strikes, reach for a bean and cheese burrito. Just be mindful of portions and loading up on nutritious toppings like veggies whenever possible. With some simple tweaks, this classic can be a tasty, satisfying meal that fits into your daily calorie needs. ¡Buen provecho!