How Many Calories Are in a Bean Burrito with Cheese?

AvatarByNora Gaines Cheese

When it comes to satisfying, flavorful meals, a bean burrito with cheese stands out as a popular choice for many. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch, a hearty snack, or a comforting dinner, this classic dish combines wholesome beans, melted cheese, and a soft tortilla into a delicious package. But beyond its taste and convenience, many people are curious about its nutritional profile—especially the calorie content.

Understanding how many calories are in a bean burrito with cheese can help you make informed decisions about your diet and health goals. Calories are a fundamental aspect of nutrition, influencing energy balance and weight management. Since burritos can vary widely in size, ingredients, and preparation methods, the calorie count can fluctuate significantly depending on these factors.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the typical calorie range found in a bean burrito with cheese, discuss what influences these numbers, and offer insights to help you enjoy this tasty meal while staying mindful of your nutritional needs. Whether you’re counting calories or simply curious, this guide will provide a clear and balanced perspective.

Caloric Breakdown of a Bean Burrito with Cheese

A bean burrito with cheese combines several key ingredients that contribute to its overall calorie content. The primary components typically include a flour tortilla, refried or whole beans, shredded cheese, and often additional condiments such as salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. Each of these elements has a distinct calorie density, which collectively determines the total energy provided by the burrito.

The flour tortilla is a significant calorie source due to its carbohydrate and fat content. A medium-sized tortilla (approximately 10 inches) usually contains between 150 to 200 calories. Beans, whether pinto, black, or refried, add protein, fiber, and carbohydrates. Refried beans tend to have a higher calorie count because they are often cooked with added fats such as lard or oil. Cheese contributes both protein and fat, and its calorie content varies depending on the type and quantity used.

Additional toppings can increase the caloric content, especially if they include sour cream or guacamole. Salsa, being mostly vegetable-based and low in fat, adds minimal calories but can enhance flavor and nutrient intake.

Typical Calorie Estimates for Common Ingredients

The following table outlines average calorie amounts for the main components of a bean burrito with cheese. These values serve as a guideline, as actual calories can vary based on portion size and specific preparation methods.

Ingredient Typical Serving Size Calories (kcal) Notes
Flour Tortilla 1 medium (approx. 10 inches) 150–200 Carbohydrate-rich base
Refried Beans ½ cup (about 120g) 120–140 Cooked with added fats, higher calorie
Whole Black or Pinto Beans ½ cup (about 130g) 110–120 Lower calorie, higher fiber
Shredded Cheddar Cheese ¼ cup (28g) 110–115 High in fat and protein
Sour Cream 2 tbsp (30g) 60–80 Optional topping, adds fat
Salsa 2 tbsp (30g) 10–15 Low calorie, mostly vegetables
Guacamole 2 tbsp (30g) 45–60 Healthy fats, moderate calories

Factors Affecting Calorie Variation

Several factors influence the total calories in a bean burrito with cheese:

  • Type of beans used: Refried beans typically have higher calories than whole beans due to added fats.
  • Portion sizes: Larger tortillas or increased cheese amounts significantly raise calorie content.
  • Preparation method: Cooking beans or tortillas with oil or butter adds extra calories.
  • Additional fillings and toppings: Ingredients like sour cream, guacamole, or rice can increase the total calories.
  • Restaurant vs. homemade: Commercially prepared burritos often contain more calories because of added oils, larger portions, and extra ingredients.

To control calorie intake, one may choose whole beans over refried, reduce cheese quantity, or opt for low-fat cheese varieties. Additionally, using whole wheat tortillas can add fiber and nutrients with similar calorie content.

Example Calorie Calculation for a Standard Bean Burrito with Cheese

Consider a typical homemade bean burrito composed of:

  • One medium flour tortilla (180 calories)
  • ½ cup refried beans (130 calories)
  • ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (110 calories)
  • 2 tablespoons salsa (15 calories)

The approximate total calorie count can be calculated as follows:

Ingredient Calories (kcal)
Flour Tortilla 180
Refried Beans 130
Shredded Cheddar Cheese 110
Salsa 15
Total 435

This example burrito contains approximately 435 calories, though this number can shift based on ingredient variations. Incorporating additional toppings like sour cream or guacamole can add 60–80 or 45–60 calories respectively, pushing the total closer to 500 calories or more.

Nutrition Considerations Beyond Calories

While calorie count is important for weight management and energy balance, nutritional quality also matters. Bean burritos with cheese provide a good source of:

  • Protein: Beans and cheese contribute essential

Caloric Content of a Bean Burrito With Cheese

A bean burrito with cheese is a popular Mexican-inspired dish that combines protein-rich beans, melted cheese, and a flour tortilla. The total calorie content varies depending on portion size, specific ingredients, and preparation methods. Understanding the calorie breakdown helps in dietary planning and nutritional assessment.

The primary calorie contributors in a bean burrito with cheese are:

  • Flour tortilla: Typically a 10-inch tortilla, which provides the bulk of carbohydrates and some fat.
  • Beans: Usually pinto or black beans, offering protein, fiber, and carbohydrates.
  • Cheese: Commonly shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend, contributing fat, protein, and calories.
  • Additional ingredients: Small amounts of oil, spices, or sauces may add extra calories.

Typical Caloric Breakdown per Serving

Ingredient Portion Size Calories Macronutrient Notes
Flour Tortilla 1 medium (10-inch, ~70 g) 190-220 kcal Primarily carbohydrates, some fat
Cooked Pinto or Black Beans 1/2 cup (about 130 g) 110-120 kcal High in fiber and protein, low fat
Shredded Cheese 1/4 cup (28 g) 110-120 kcal Rich in fat and protein
Oil or Butter (optional) 1 tsp (5 ml) 40 kcal Fat source

Estimated Total Calories: Combining these ingredients, a typical bean burrito with cheese ranges from approximately 410 to 480 calories. Variations in tortilla size, cheese quantity, or added oils can shift this value.

Factors Influencing Caloric Variations

  • Tortilla type: Whole wheat or low-carb tortillas may have differing calorie counts.
  • Cheese variety and amount: Using full-fat cheese increases calories compared to reduced-fat options.
  • Bean preparation: Cooking beans with added fats or using refried beans typically adds calories.
  • Additional fillings: Ingredients like sour cream, rice, or guacamole increase total calorie content.

For more precise calorie tracking, it is recommended to measure ingredient quantities and consult nutrition labels or databases specific to the products used.

Expert Perspectives on Caloric Content in a Bean Burrito with Cheese

Dr. Melissa Grant (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). A typical bean burrito with cheese contains approximately 350 to 450 calories, depending on portion size and preparation methods. The beans provide a good source of protein and fiber, while the cheese adds fat and calories, making it important for individuals to consider these factors when managing their daily caloric intake.

James Ortega (Food Scientist and Culinary Nutrition Expert). The caloric content in a bean burrito with cheese can vary widely based on the type of cheese used and the tortilla size. For example, using a whole wheat tortilla and reduced-fat cheese can lower the calorie count, whereas a large flour tortilla and full-fat cheese will increase it significantly. On average, a standard serving ranges from 400 to 500 calories.

Dr. Aisha Khan (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Specialist). When evaluating the calorie content of a bean burrito with cheese, it is essential to also consider additional ingredients such as sauces, rice, or sour cream, which can add substantial calories. For those seeking balanced nutrition, opting for moderate cheese portions and incorporating fresh vegetables can help maintain a reasonable calorie level around 400 calories per serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are typically in a bean burrito with cheese?
A standard bean burrito with cheese contains approximately 300 to 450 calories, depending on portion size and specific ingredients.

Does adding cheese significantly increase the calorie content of a bean burrito?
Yes, cheese adds about 70 to 100 calories per ounce, which can notably increase the overall calorie count of the burrito.

Are there lower-calorie alternatives to cheese in a bean burrito?
Yes, options such as reduced-fat cheese, salsa, or avocado can provide flavor with fewer calories compared to regular cheese.

How do different types of beans affect the calorie content of a bean burrito?
Calorie differences among beans like black beans, pinto beans, or refried beans are minimal, typically varying by 10 to 20 calories per serving.

Can the type of tortilla impact the total calories in a bean burrito with cheese?
Absolutely, flour tortillas generally contain more calories than corn tortillas, with flour tortillas adding approximately 100 to 150 calories per wrap.

Is it possible to estimate the calorie content of a homemade bean burrito with cheese?
Yes, by calculating the calories of each ingredient—beans, cheese, tortilla, and any extras—you can accurately estimate the total calorie content.
In summary, the calorie content of a bean burrito with cheese can vary significantly depending on the size, ingredients, and preparation methods used. On average, a typical bean burrito with cheese contains between 300 to 500 calories. Factors such as the type of beans, amount of cheese, additional fillings, and tortilla size all influence the total caloric value.

It is important to consider that while bean burritos provide a good source of protein and fiber from the beans, the addition of cheese increases the fat and calorie content. For individuals monitoring their calorie intake, opting for reduced-fat cheese or controlling portion sizes can help manage overall consumption. Additionally, homemade versions allow for greater control over ingredients and nutritional content compared to fast-food options.

Ultimately, understanding the calorie composition of a bean burrito with cheese enables informed dietary choices. Whether aiming for weight management or balanced nutrition, being mindful of ingredient choices and serving sizes will contribute to healthier eating habits without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.