If you’re a fan of Mexican food, chances are you’ve had a quesadilla at least once in your life. The combination of cheese, meat, and veggies wrapped up in a warm tortilla is a classic that never gets old. And when it comes to fast food Mexican, Del Taco is one of the most popular chains around. But if you’re watching your calorie intake, you might be wondering just how many calories are in a Del Taco quesadilla. Fear not, because we’ve got all the details right here.
Table of Contents
What is a Del Taco Quesadilla?
First things first, let’s talk about what exactly a Del Taco quesadilla is. At its core, it’s a flour tortilla filled with melted cheese and your choice of protein (chicken, steak, or beyond meat). It also comes with pico de gallo and creamy jalapeno sauce for added flavor.
How Many Calories are in a Del Taco Quesadilla?
Now for the important question – how many calories are in a Del Taco quesadilla? According to the company’s website, a chicken quesadilla clocks in at 570 calories, while a steak quesadilla is 610 calories. The beyond meat quesadilla is slightly lower at 540 calories. Keep in mind that these numbers may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used at each location.
What About Other Nutritional Information?
Calories aren’t the only thing to consider when it comes to nutrition. Here’s a breakdown of the other nutritional information for a Del Taco quesadilla:
- Chicken quesadilla: 29g fat, 44g carbs, 7g sugar, 34g protein
- Steak quesadilla: 36g fat, 44g carbs, 7g sugar, 41g protein
- Beyond meat quesadilla: 27g fat, 50g carbs, 7g sugar, 28g protein
Is a Del Taco Quesadilla a Healthy Choice?
Let’s be real – a Del Taco quesadilla is not exactly a health food. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy one as part of a balanced diet. If you’re watching your calorie intake, it’s definitely a good idea to limit how often you indulge in fast food. But if you’re craving a quesadilla, it’s a decent option compared to some other menu items that can be much higher in calories and fat.
What Do People Think About Del Taco Quesadilla Calories?
We took to social media to see what people had to say about the calorie content of Del Taco quesadillas. Here are a few responses:
- “I love Del Taco quesadillas but the calories are kind of scary.”
- “I had no idea that a chicken quesadilla had so many calories! I’ll have to think twice before ordering one again.”
- “As much as I love Del Taco, I can’t justify eating a quesadilla that’s almost 600 calories.”
As you can see, people are definitely aware of the calorie content in Del Taco quesadillas. While they may not be the healthiest option, they’re still a tasty treat that many people enjoy.
Tips for Making a Healthier Quesadilla at Home
If you want to enjoy a quesadilla without the guilt, making one at home is a great option. Here are a few tips for making a healthier version:
- Use a whole wheat tortilla for added fiber.
- Load up on veggies like peppers, onions, and spinach to add flavor and nutrition.
- Use a lower-fat cheese like mozzarella or feta instead of cheddar or jack.
- Choose a lean protein like grilled chicken or shrimp instead of beef or pork.
- Skip the sour cream and use salsa or guacamole for added flavor.
With a few simple swaps, you can create a healthier quesadilla that’s just as delicious as the restaurant version.
FAQs About Del Taco Quesadilla Calories
Here are a few common questions people have about the calorie content of Del Taco quesadillas:
What’s the difference between a chicken and steak quesadilla?
The main difference is the type of protein used. A chicken quesadilla is made with grilled chicken, while a steak quesadilla uses grilled steak. The calorie and nutrient content is also slightly different between the two.
How can I make a Del Taco quesadilla lower in calories?
If you’re looking to cut down on calories, you could ask for no sauce or cheese, or opt for a smaller portion size. You could also choose a vegetarian option like the beyond meat quesadilla, which is slightly lower in calories than the chicken or steak versions.
Are there any other menu items at Del Taco that are lower in calories?
Yes, there are plenty of options that are lower in calories than a quesadilla! Some good choices include the chicken soft taco (220 calories), the veggie works burrito (510 calories), or a side of pinto beans (110 calories).
Del Taco Quesadilla Nutrition Facts
For a quick reference, here’s a nutrition facts table for each type of Del Taco quesadilla:
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Sugar | Protein | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken quesadilla | 570 | 29g | 44g | 7g | 34g |
| Steak quesadilla | 610 | 36g | 44g | 7g | 41g |
| Beyond meat quesadilla | 540 | 27g | 50g | 7g | 28g |
Conclusion
While a Del Taco quesadilla may not be the healthiest choice out there, it can still fit into a balanced diet as an occasional treat. Keep in mind the calorie content and other nutritional information, and consider making a healthier version at home if you’re looking to cut down on calories. With a little creativity, you can enjoy a delicious quesadilla without the guilt.
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