How Many Calories Are in a Bean and Cheese Burrito?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Nutrition & Health

When it comes to satisfying cravings with a hearty and flavorful meal, a bean and cheese burrito often tops the list for many food lovers. This classic combination offers a comforting blend of creamy cheese and protein-packed beans wrapped in a warm tortilla, making it a popular choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. But beyond its delicious taste, many people are curious about the nutritional impact of this beloved dish—particularly how many calories it contains.

Understanding the calorie content of a bean and cheese burrito can be an important factor for those who are mindful of their diet, whether they are trying to maintain, lose, or gain weight. Calories provide a measure of the energy food supplies to the body, and knowing how much energy you’re consuming helps in making informed dietary choices. However, the calorie count of a bean and cheese burrito can vary widely depending on portion size, ingredients, and preparation methods.

In the following sections, we will explore the factors that influence the calorie content of a bean and cheese burrito and provide insights into how different variations can affect its nutritional profile. Whether you’re a health-conscious eater or simply curious, this guide will help you better understand what goes into your favorite burrito and how it fits into your overall diet.

Caloric Content of Common Bean and Cheese Burritos

The calorie content of a bean and cheese burrito varies significantly depending on its size, ingredients, and preparation method. Generally, the key contributors to calories in a bean and cheese burrito include the tortilla, the beans, the cheese, and any additional fillings or condiments.

A typical medium-sized bean and cheese burrito from a fast-food restaurant or homemade recipe can range from approximately 300 to 600 calories. The variation depends on factors such as the type of tortilla (flour or whole wheat), the amount and type of cheese used, and whether any oils or sauces are added.

Breakdown of Calorie Sources

  • Tortilla: Flour tortillas are usually higher in calories compared to corn tortillas due to their carbohydrate and fat content.
  • Beans: Refried beans, often used in burritos, can contain added fats, which increase calorie count compared to plain boiled beans.
  • Cheese: The type of cheese affects calories; for example, cheddar has more calories per ounce than mozzarella.
  • Additional Ingredients: Sour cream, guacamole, rice, and salsa can significantly affect the total calorie count.

Calorie Comparison Table for Various Bean and Cheese Burrito Variations

Burrito Component Typical Serving Size Calories Notes
Flour Tortilla 1 medium (10-inch) 210 Standard flour tortilla, about 50g
Refried Beans ½ cup (120g) 120 Cooked with added fats
Cheddar Cheese 1 oz (28g) 115 Shredded
Sour Cream 2 tbsp (30g) 60 Full fat
Guacamole 2 tbsp (30g) 50 Homemade, moderate fat
Salsa 2 tbsp (30g) 10 Low calorie

Factors Influencing the Calorie Count of a Bean and Cheese Burrito

Several factors can influence the total calorie content of a bean and cheese burrito, including the following:

  • Tortilla Size and Type: Larger tortillas significantly increase calories. Choosing a smaller or whole wheat tortilla can reduce calories and add fiber.
  • Type of Beans: Black beans, pinto beans, and refried beans differ in calorie content, especially if cooked with added fats.
  • Cheese Variety and Quantity: Using lower-fat cheese or reducing the amount of cheese can help lower calories.
  • Additional Ingredients: Adding rice, meats, or extra sauces increases calories. Conversely, adding vegetables like lettuce or tomatoes adds volume without many calories.
  • Cooking Method: Pan-frying or adding oil to beans or tortillas adds fat and calories, while steaming or grilling keeps calories lower.

Estimating Calories for Homemade Bean and Cheese Burritos

For those preparing burritos at home, estimating calories can be done by adding up the calories from each ingredient based on portion size. This method allows for control over the ingredients and portion sizes, enabling healthier choices.

Tips for Reducing Calories

  • Use smaller tortillas or low-calorie wraps.
  • Substitute refried beans with boiled or steamed beans without added fat.
  • Use reduced-fat cheese or smaller amounts.
  • Limit high-calorie toppings such as sour cream and guacamole.
  • Increase fresh vegetable content to add volume and nutrients without many calories.

Typical Calorie Ranges in Popular Fast Food Bean and Cheese Burritos

Fast food chains vary widely in their burrito calorie content due to differing recipes and portion sizes. Below is a sample comparison of calorie estimates from well-known chains:

Restaurant Menu Item Calories Notes
Taco Bell Bean & Cheese Burrito 350 Standard size with beans, cheese, and tortilla
Chipotle Vegetarian Bean & Cheese Burrito (medium) 650–700 Includes rice, beans, cheese, salsa, and tortilla
Del Taco Bean & Cheese Burrito 320 Basic ingredients without extras

This variability underscores the importance of checking nutritional information when ordering or preparing burritos to better manage calorie intake.

Caloric Content of a Bean and Cheese Burrito

The calorie count of a bean and cheese burrito varies significantly depending on portion size, ingredients, and preparation methods. The main contributors to the calorie total are the tortilla, refried or whole beans, cheese, and any additional fillings or toppings. Understanding these components helps in estimating the overall energy content accurately.

Here are the typical calorie contributions from the primary ingredients commonly used in a bean and cheese burrito:

  • Tortilla: Flour tortillas range from 140 to 250 calories depending on size (6 to 12 inches).
  • Beans: Refried beans contain about 120 to 160 calories per half-cup serving; whole black or pinto beans typically have around 110 to 130 calories per half-cup.
  • Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese adds roughly 110 to 130 calories per ounce (28 grams).
  • Additional ingredients: Sour cream, guacamole, or salsa can add 20 to 100+ calories depending on quantity and type.

Because of this variability, a standard bean and cheese burrito prepared at home or from a fast-casual restaurant will generally fall within the following caloric range:

Component Typical Portion Calories (kcal)
Flour Tortilla (10-inch) 1 tortilla 200
Refried Beans ½ cup (about 130 grams) 140
Cheddar Cheese 1 oz (28 grams) 115
Salsa (optional) 2 tablespoons 10
Total Estimated Calories 465

This estimate assumes no added oils or high-calorie toppings. Commercially prepared burritos, especially those from fast-food chains, may contain higher calories due to larger portions, added fats, or extra ingredients like sour cream or rice.

Factors Affecting the Calorie Count

Several factors influence the final caloric value of a bean and cheese burrito:

  • Tortilla size and type: Larger tortillas or those made with lard or additional fats increase calorie content. Whole wheat tortillas may have similar calories but offer more fiber.
  • Type of beans: Refried beans often contain added oils or lard, increasing calories compared to plain cooked beans.
  • Cheese variety and quantity: Using reduced-fat cheese or less cheese lowers calories. Different cheeses have varying fat content.
  • Additional fillings: Ingredients such as rice, sour cream, guacamole, or meats will increase calories significantly.
  • Cooking method: Pan-frying or adding oil during preparation adds extra calories compared to heating or steaming.

Calorie Comparison Across Popular Brands

Below is a comparison of typical calorie counts for bean and cheese burritos from well-known fast-food chains. Portion sizes and ingredient compositions vary, so these should be considered approximate.

Brand Burrito Name Calories Serving Size
Taco Bell Bean & Cheese Burrito 350 1 burrito (143 g)
Chipotle Mexican Grill Vegetarian Burrito (Beans & Cheese) 565 1 burrito (approx. 309 g)
Del Taco Bean & Cheese Burrito 340 1 burrito (approx. 150 g)
Qdoba Mexican Eats Vegetarian Burrito 600 1 burrito (approx. 300 g)

These differences highlight how portion size and recipe variations impact calorie content. Customers seeking lower-calorie options should consider customizing their burrito by reducing cheese, omitting extras, or choosing smaller tortillas.

Expert Perspectives on the Caloric Content of a Bean and Cheese Burrito

Dr. Elena Martinez (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). A typical bean and cheese burrito contains approximately 300 to 450 calories depending on portion size and preparation methods. The calorie count is influenced by factors such as the type of beans used, the amount of cheese, and whether additional ingredients like sour cream or tortillas with added fats are included.

James O’Connor (Food Scientist and Culinary Nutrition Expert). When estimating the calories in a bean and cheese burrito, it is essential to consider the cooking process and ingredient quality. For instance, using whole pinto beans and reduced-fat cheese can lower the calorie content to around 350 calories, whereas traditional recipes with full-fat cheese and flour tortillas can push the count above 450 calories.

Linda Chen (Public Health Nutritionist and Author). From a public health perspective, understanding the calorie content of common meals like bean and cheese burritos helps consumers make informed dietary choices. On average, these burritos provide a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, with a calorie range typically between 350 and 420 calories, making them a moderately energy-dense option within a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in a typical bean and cheese burrito?
A typical bean and cheese burrito contains approximately 300 to 500 calories, depending on portion size and specific ingredients.

Do the calories in a bean and cheese burrito vary by brand or restaurant?
Yes, calorie content can vary significantly based on the brand, preparation method, and additional ingredients used by different restaurants.

Are the calories in a bean and cheese burrito mostly from carbohydrates, protein, or fat?
Most calories come from carbohydrates and fat, with protein contributing a moderate amount, primarily from beans and cheese.

Can a bean and cheese burrito fit into a weight loss diet?
Yes, when consumed in moderation and balanced with overall daily caloric intake, a bean and cheese burrito can be part of a weight loss diet.

How can I reduce the calorie content of a bean and cheese burrito?
Use whole wheat or low-calorie tortillas, reduce cheese quantity, and opt for low-fat cheese or additional vegetables to lower calorie content.

Does adding salsa or sour cream significantly increase the calories?
Adding salsa typically adds minimal calories, while sour cream can increase the calorie count substantially depending on the amount used.
In summary, the calorie content of a bean and cheese burrito can vary significantly depending on its size, ingredients, and preparation method. On average, a typical bean and cheese burrito contains between 300 to 600 calories. Factors such as the type of beans used, the amount and kind of cheese, the presence of additional toppings like sour cream or salsa, and the tortilla size all influence the total caloric value.

Understanding the calorie content is essential for individuals managing their dietary intake, especially those monitoring their calorie consumption for weight management or health reasons. Opting for whole wheat or low-calorie tortillas, reduced-fat cheese, and controlling portion sizes can help reduce the overall calorie count while maintaining the burrito’s nutritional benefits.

Ultimately, being mindful of the ingredients and preparation methods allows consumers to make informed choices when enjoying a bean and cheese burrito. This awareness supports balanced nutrition and helps align meal choices with personal health goals without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.