How Many Calories are in a Taco Bell Taco?

When it comes to fast food, calorie counts can be a major concern for many people. If you’re a fan of Taco Bell, you may be wondering how many calories are in the tacos offered at the chain. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the calorie counts of popular Taco Bell tacos and provide some tips for making healthier choices at the chain.

Calorie Counts of Popular Taco Bell Tacos

One of the most iconic items on the Taco Bell menu is the classic taco. This taco, which is made with a soft tortilla and filled with ground beef, lettuce, and cheese, contains 170 calories. If you want to add a little more protein to your taco, you can opt for the steak version, which contains 210 calories.

For those looking for a lower calorie option, the chain also offers a grilled chicken taco that contains 150 calories. Vegetarian diners can try the black bean taco, which has 140 calories.

How to Make Healthier Choices at Taco Bell

While it’s okay to indulge in a taco from time to time, it’s important to be mindful of the calorie and nutrient content of your meals. Here are a few tips for making healthier choices at Taco Bell:

  • Choose a soft taco over a crunchy taco: Soft tacos generally have fewer calories than crunchy tacos, as they are made with a smaller tortilla.
  • Skip the cheese and sour cream: These toppings can add a lot of calories and fat to your taco. Instead, opt for salsa or guacamole, which are healthier options.
  • Go for grilled instead of fried: Many of the proteins offered at Taco Bell, such as chicken and steak, are available in both grilled and fried versions. Choosing the grilled option will save you calories and fat.
  • Choose a “Fresco” menu item: The Fresco menu at Taco Bell features items that are lower in calories and fat. Options include the Fresco Soft Taco, which has just 100 calories, and the Fresco Chicken Grillers, which contain 160 calories.

Calorie Comparison to Other Fast Food Chains

It’s worth noting that the calorie counts of Taco Bell tacos are generally similar to those offered at other fast food chains. For example, a classic taco at McDonald’s contains 170 calories, while a taco at Chipotle contains around 300 calories. However, these calorie counts can vary depending on the toppings and ingredients you choose.

Conclusion

While fast food can be convenient, it’s important to be mindful of the calorie and nutrient content of your meals. By choosing lower calorie options and skipping high calorie toppings, you can still enjoy the deliciousness of Taco Bell while making healthier choices.