Frederic Melton
A single cheese enchilada contains approximately 220 to 235 calories. The calorie distribution is primarily shared between carbohydrates, fat, and protein.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220-235 kcal |
| Macronutrient Breakdown | 47% carbs, 37% fat, and 16% protein |
| Carbohydrates | 21.0 g |
| Fat | 13.9 g |
| Protein | 7.1 g |
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What You'll Learn
Calorie count: around 220-235 calories per enchilada
A cheese enchilada typically contains around 220-235 calories. This calorie count can vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used in the recipe. For example, the type of cheese and the amount of oil or other fats included can impact the overall calorie content.
Enchiladas are generally considered a moderately calorie-dense food, and when paired with typical side dishes, the overall calorie count of the meal can be quite high. It's worth noting that the calorie content of enchiladas can be adjusted to some extent by making conscious choices about ingredients and portion sizes.
For example, using leaner proteins, reduced-fat dairy, and whole-grain tortillas can help lower the calorie count. Additionally, bulk up the enchilada with vegetables to add volume and nutrients while keeping the calorie density relatively low.
On the other hand, some recipes may intentionally include higher-calorie ingredients to create a more indulgent dish. This could involve using generous amounts of full-fat cheese, sour cream, or guacamole, all of which contribute to a higher calorie count.
When considering the calorie content of a cheese enchilada, it's also essential to think about the context of the meal. Enchiladas are often served with sides and toppings that can significantly impact the overall calorie count. Common sides like rice, beans, guacamole, or additional cheese can add several hundred calories to the meal.
Lastly, it's worth noting that while calorie count is important, it's not the only factor to consider when evaluating the nutritional value of cheese enchiladas. The macronutrient breakdown and the presence of essential vitamins and minerals also play a crucial role in determining the overall nutritional quality of this dish.
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Macronutrients: carbs (47%), fat (37%), and protein (16%)
The calorie content of a cheese enchilaada varies depending on the brand and ingredients used. For example, a cheese enchilada from H-E-B contains 220 calories, 47% of which are derived from carbohydrates, 37% from fat, and 16% from protein. This equates to 21 grams of carbohydrates, 13.9 grams of fat, and 7.1 grams of protein.
In comparison, a generic cheese enchilada is listed as containing 235 calories, with a slightly different macronutrient composition. This option provides 21 grams of carbohydrates, contributing to 35% of the total calories, while fat contributes 55% of the calories, and protein accounts for 10% of the total calories, providing 7.1 grams of protein.
It is important to note that these values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used in the preparation of the enchilada. The type of cheese, the amount and type of fat used, and the presence of additional fillings or toppings can all influence the macronutrient composition.
When considering the nutritional value of a cheese enchilada, it is essential to look beyond the macronutrients and consider the micronutrients as well. Enchiladas can provide a good source of certain vitamins and minerals, depending on the ingredients used. For example, the inclusion of beans, vegetables, or certain spices can enhance the micronutrient profile of the dish.
Additionally, the quality of the ingredients used can also impact the nutritional value. For instance, using whole-grain tortillas can increase the fiber content, while opting for leaner proteins and healthier fats can improve the overall nutritional profile of the dish.
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Breakdown: 21g carbs, 14g fat, 7g protein
A cheese enchilada typically contains around 220-235 calories. The breakdown of these calories from the total amount of energy contained in the food is as follows: 21 grams of carbohydrates (47% of total calories), 14 grams of fat (37% of total calories), and 7 grams of protein (16% of total calories).
Carbohydrates are an essential source of energy for the body, providing fuel for physical activity and proper organ function. They are the brain's primary source of fuel, and the body can also store them for future use.
Fat, meanwhile, is a nutrient that helps the body absorb certain vitamins and promotes healthy skin and hair. It is a source of essential fatty acids and provides a concentrated form of energy.
Protein is made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks of muscle and other body tissues. It helps repair and build body tissues, and it also plays a role in creating hormones and enzymes.
The cheese enchilada's calorie breakdown suggests that it is a moderately balanced dish in terms of its macronutrient composition, with a slight emphasis on carbohydrates.
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Sugar: low sugar content
A cheese enchilada typically contains around 220-235 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 47% carbs, 37% fat, and 16% protein. When it comes to sugar, cheese enchiladas are considered a low-sugar food option.
While the exact sugar content of a cheese enchilada can vary depending on the specific ingredients and preparation methods, it is generally not a significant source of sugar. Enchiladas derive most of their calories from carbohydrates and fat, with protein contributing a smaller proportion.
The carbohydrates in enchiladas come primarily from the tortilla and the fillings, such as cheese, beans, or meat. These ingredients contribute to the overall calorie count but do not necessarily indicate a high sugar content.
Cheese enchiladas are typically not a significant source of natural sugars, such as those found in fruits or some vegetables. The sugar content in an enchilada is likely to come from added sugars, which may be present in smaller amounts in the tortilla or the sauce.
To further reduce the sugar content of a cheese enchilada, one could opt for a whole-wheat tortilla, which has a lower glycemic index and may contain less added sugar. Additionally, choosing a sauce with no added sugar can help minimize the sugar content of the dish.
Overall, when considering the nutritional profile of a cheese enchilada, the focus tends to be on the calorie contribution from fat and carbohydrates, rather than sugar. This makes it a suitable option for those looking to limit their sugar intake without compromising on flavor and satisfaction.
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Fat type: high in saturated fat
Enchiladas are a popular Mexican dish that can be made with a variety of fillings, including cheese. While enchiladas can be a tasty and satisfying meal, it's important to consider their fat content, especially the presence of saturated fats.
Saturated fats are a type of fat found in many animal-based foods, such as meat and dairy products, as well as some plant-based oils like coconut and palm oil. They are known as "sat fats" for short and are typically solid at room temperature. These fats have all of their carbon atoms bonded to hydrogen atoms, making them "saturated" with hydrogen. This structure makes them more stable and less susceptible to oxidation, which is why they have a longer shelf life compared to unsaturated fats.
In the context of cheese enchiladas, the primary source of saturated fat is likely to be the cheese itself. Cheese is a dairy product that can contain significant amounts of saturated fat, depending on the type and variety. For example, harder cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack, which are commonly used in enchiladas, tend to have higher saturated fat content compared to softer cheeses. The fat content of cheese can vary depending on the milk source (cow, goat, sheep) and the production methods used.
Consuming high amounts of saturated fat has been linked to elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. Elevated LDL cholesterol is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, as it can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, restricting blood flow and increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke. Therefore, it is generally recommended to limit the consumption of saturated fats to maintain healthy cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular issues.
To make cheese enchiladas a healthier option, one can consider using lower-fat cheeses or opting for plant-based cheese alternatives, which tend to have lower saturated fat content. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables into the enchiladas and being mindful of portion sizes can help balance the overall fat intake from this dish. By making conscious choices and modifications, individuals can enjoy their favorite foods while maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet.
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Frequently asked questions
A cheese enchilada contains around 220-235 calories.
A cheese enchilada is composed of 47% carbs, 37% fat, and 16% protein.
Yes, there may be lower-calorie options available depending on the brand and ingredients used. Some brands offer cheese enchiladas with slightly fewer calories, such as H-E-B's cheese enchilada, which contains 220 calories.
