Randy Chandler
Beef and cheese tacos are a tasty, quick and easy meal option. But how many calories are in three of them? Well, that depends on the ingredients and their quantities. For example, a taco with a medium-sized shell, 2 oz of 80% lean ground beef, and 1 oz of cheddar cheese contains 326 calories. The shell accounts for 59 calories, the beef for 153, and the cheese for 114. So, three tacos of this kind would contain 978 calories. However, the calorie count can vary depending on the type of tortilla used, the amount of cheese and beef, and any additional toppings such as sour cream, which adds 23 calories per tablespoon.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories in 1 beef and cheese taco | 326 |
| Calories in 1 shell | 59 |
| Calories in 2 oz. of 80% lean ground beef | 153 |
| Calories in 1 oz. of cheddar cheese | 114 |
| Total carbs in 1 taco | 11.3g |
| Net carbs in 1 taco | 10.2g |
| Total fat in 1 taco | 11.2g |
| Protein in 1 taco | 11g |
| Calories in 1 taco with a hard shell | 156 |
| Calories in 3 small flour tortillas | 450 |
| Calories in 1/4 cup of cheese | 160 |
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What You'll Learn
- A medium-sized beef and cheese taco contains 326 calories
- The shell, beef and cheese contribute 59, 153 and 114 calories, respectively
- The total calories will depend on the taco size and ingredients
- Corn tortillas have fewer calories than flour tortillas
- Refried beans, salsa and tomatoes add vitamins and fibre, but few calories
A medium-sized beef and cheese taco contains 326 calories
It's important to note that the calories in a taco can quickly add up, depending on the toppings and fillings. For instance, adding sour cream can contribute an extra 23 calories per tablespoon. While beef and cheese tacos are a good source of protein, with beef also providing iron, they can be high in fat. A single taco can contain around 11 grams of saturated fat and 22 grams of total fat. Therefore, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and the overall calorie and nutrient content when including these tacos in your diet.
The type of taco shell can also make a difference in the calorie count. Flour tortillas can range from 75 to 150 calories each, while corn tortillas typically fall between 50 and 100 calories. When considering the total calorie intake, it's not just the fillings but also the shell that contributes significantly. This is an important consideration for those watching their weight or aiming for a specific daily calorie intake.
While beef and cheese tacos offer a quick, easy, and inexpensive meal option, they can be high in calories and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The recommended daily calorie intake varies depending on factors such as age, gender, and activity level, but on average, a single medium-sized beef and cheese taco can account for about 15% of an adult's daily recommended intake.
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The shell, beef and cheese contribute 59, 153 and 114 calories, respectively
A medium-sized beef and cheese taco contains 326 calories, with the shell, beef, and cheese contributing 59, 153, and 114 calories, respectively. This amounts to approximately 15% of the daily recommended intake for the average adult.
The calorie count of a taco varies depending on its size and the ingredients used. For example, a taco with a flour tortilla typically contains more calories than one with a corn tortilla. A flour tortilla can range from 75 to 150 calories, while a corn tortilla typically contains 50 to 100 calories.
The beef in a taco contributes significantly to the overall calorie count. A single taco typically contains 2 ounces of ground beef, which adds 153 calories. The beef also provides essential nutrients like protein and iron, which is important for oxygenating cells.
Cheese is another key ingredient in a beef taco and contributes 114 calories per ounce. Cheese is a good source of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, which are essential for bone health.
Other common toppings on a taco, such as refried beans, salsa, and tomatoes, contribute fewer calories but add fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Sour cream, on the other hand, adds about 23 calories per tablespoon.
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The total calories will depend on the taco size and ingredients
The calorie count of a beef and cheese taco varies depending on the ingredients used and the size of the taco. A medium-sized taco with 2 oz. of 80% lean ground beef, 1 oz. of cheddar cheese, and a corn tortilla shell contains about 326 calories. The shell accounts for 59 calories, the beef for 153, and the cheese for 114.
The calorie count can also depend on the type of tortilla used. Flour tortillas can range from 75 to 150 calories each, while corn tortillas typically contain 50 to 100 calories each. The amount of cheese and beef used can also vary, affecting the overall calorie count. For example, 1/4 cup of cheese is approximately 80 calories, while 2 oz. of 80% lean ground beef contributes 153 calories.
Additionally, the toppings and fillings can add to the calorie count. Sour cream, for instance, contributes about 23 calories per tablespoon. Other toppings like refried beans, salsa, and tomatoes have minimal calories but provide fiber, minerals, and vitamins.
It's important to note that the total calorie count for three beef and cheese tacos will depend on the specific ingredients and their quantities. As an estimate, three small flour tacos with ground beef, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes could range from 750 to 900 calories in total. However, this may vary depending on the exact amounts of each ingredient used.
While beef and cheese tacos can be high in calories, they also offer nutritional benefits. Beef provides iron, which is essential for oxygen transport in the body. Cheese is a good source of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, which are crucial for bone health.
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Corn tortillas have fewer calories than flour tortillas
The number of calories in three beef and cheese tacos depends on the type of tortilla used. Corn tortillas have fewer calories than flour tortillas. For example, a corn tortilla from Walmart has 25 calories, while a flour tortilla can have 70 calories.
Corn tortillas are traditionally made by the Aztecs and involve a process called nixtamalization. They are usually smaller, measuring about 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter, and are a good source of fiber and magnesium. Corn tortillas are also considered a whole grain and are lower in carbs, calories, and fat than flour tortillas. They tend to have more fiber and nutrients but less fat and calories than flour tortillas. Corn tortillas are also gluten-free, making them a safe option for people with gluten-related conditions or celiac disease.
On the other hand, flour tortillas are typically larger, ranging from 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 cm) in diameter. They tend to contain more fat because they are usually made with lard or shortening. Flour tortillas also provide more iron, which is essential for supplying oxygen to the body's muscles and tissues. However, they have almost twice the calories and fat content as corn tortillas, and their durable texture and softness come from gluten.
While taste preferences vary, corn tortillas are popular in modern Mexican cuisine and offer built-in portion control due to their smaller size. They are also the healthier option, providing more whole grains, fiber, and nutrients while being lower in calories than flour tortillas.
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Refried beans, salsa and tomatoes add vitamins and fibre, but few calories
A single taco containing a medium-sized taco shell, 2 oz of 80%-lean ground beef, and 1 oz of cheddar cheese contains 326 calories. The shell accounts for 59 calories, the beef for 153, and the cheese for 114. While beef and cheese tacos are a good source of protein and nutrients such as iron, vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, they can be high in calories and fat. To reduce the calorie count and increase the nutritional value of your taco, consider adding refried beans, salsa, and tomatoes. These ingredients contribute very few calories but are excellent sources of fibre, vitamins, and minerals. For example, one tablespoon of sour cream adds 23 calories, whereas refried beans, salsa, and tomatoes add only negligible calories while providing numerous health benefits. By including these nutritious, low-calorie ingredients, you can make your taco more filling and enjoyable without significantly increasing the calorie count.
When it comes to calorie intake, it's important to remember that individual calorie needs may vary depending on factors such as age, gender, activity level, and overall health goals. While beef and cheese tacos can be part of a balanced diet, it's essential to practise portion control and ensure that your total calorie intake aligns with your nutritional needs and goals.
The calorie breakdown of a beef and cheese taco provides valuable insights. The shell, beef, and cheese each contribute significantly to the overall calorie count. If you're aiming for a lower-calorie option, you might consider substituting certain ingredients. For example, you could replace the ground beef with a plant-based alternative or opt for a different type of cheese that has a lower calorie content. Additionally, the toppings you choose can make a difference. Instead of sour cream, try salsa or a lower-calorie alternative, such as Greek yoghurt.
While refried beans, salsa, and tomatoes add vitamins and fibre without significantly increasing the calorie count, other toppings may contribute more substantially. Lettuce, for instance, is a low-calorie option that can add crunch and freshness to your taco. You can also experiment with various low-calorie seasonings and spices to enhance the flavour profile of your taco without adding extra calories. Remember, even small adjustments to your taco's ingredients can make a difference in the overall calorie count, allowing you to customise your meal to align with your nutritional preferences and goals.
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Frequently asked questions
The calorie count depends on the taco's ingredients and their amounts. One source estimates that three small flour tacos with ground beef, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes contain around 700-900 calories in total.
The shell, beef, and cheese all contribute significantly to the calorie count. A medium-sized taco shell contributes about 59 calories, 2 oz. of 80% lean ground beef contributes 153 calories, and 1 oz. of cheddar cheese contributes 114 calories.
Yes, the type of shell can make a difference. Flour tortillas can range from 75 to 150 calories each, while corn tortillas typically contain 50-100 calories each.
Beef and cheese tacos are high in protein, with one taco providing about 15% of the daily recommended protein intake. However, they can also be high in fat, with one taco containing 22 grams of total fat, including 11 grams of saturated fat.
Yes, toppings like refried beans, salsa, and tomatoes add few calories but provide fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Sour cream, on the other hand, contributes about 23 calories per tablespoon.
