Top 10 Healthiest Taco Bell Choices for Every Diet in 2024: High-Protein & Low-Calorie Options

Eating healthy at Taco Bell might seem tricky, but it’s entirely possible. This guide is here to help you navigate the menu and find the best options for your dietary needs. Whether you’re focused on calorie control, protein intake, or overall balanced choices, there are options that can support your goals.

Fast food isn’t always about strict health, but it’s valuable to know what you’re eating. By understanding Taco Bell’s menu, you can make choices that work for you, without sacrificing taste. This guide breaks down the calories and nutrition so you can enjoy Taco Bell while staying on track.

What are the Healthiest Options at Taco Bell?

Here’s a breakdown of the healthier options at Taco Bell that’ll satisfy cravings without overloading on calories. For those counting macronutrients, options like the Power Menu Chicken Bowl and Crunchy Tacos are simple, balanced, and filling. These choices are dietitian-recommended for keeping energy up without adding too many calories.

A great tip for a lighter meal is going “Fresco Style,” which replaces heavier sauces and cheese with fresh pico de gallo. This small switch can reduce calories across items like the Bean Burrito or Soft Taco Supreme. With these customizations, Taco Bell lets you enjoy a quick meal while keeping things a little lighter.

For those on specific diets, Taco Bell offers options for low-carb, keto, and vegetarian preferences. By customizing, like skipping rice in the Power Bowl or opting for black beans, it’s easier to meet dietary needs. So, there are ways to enjoy Taco Bell while sticking to a healthier path.

The best keto-friendly option at Taco Bell

Power Bowl With No Rice or Beans

240 Calories, 14g Fat, 4g Net Carbs, 21g Protein

For those watching carbs or calories, Taco Bell’s Chicken Power Menu Bowl (without rice or beans) is a strong choice. Packed with ingredients like chicken, shredded cheese, guacamole, lettuce, sour cream, tomatoes, and a tangy avocado-ranch sauce, this bowl offers a filling meal that’s high in protein with just 4 grams of net carbs.

Best low-fat option at Taco Bell

Soft Grilled Chicken Taco Fesco Style

130 Calories, 3.5g Fat, 16g Carbs, 11g Protein

For a healthier choice at Taco Bell, the Fresco Style Soft Taco with grilled chicken is a top pick. It swaps higher-calorie toppings like cheese and sour cream for fresh pico de gallo, keeping the taco light and flavorful. Each item on the Fresco menu comes in at 350 calories or less, making it a great option if you’re cutting calories or fat without sacrificing taste. Plus, asking for “fresco style” on other menu items can also help you enjoy Taco Bell with a bit less guilt!

Highest protein option at Taco Bell

Chicken Grilled Cheese Burrito (With Extra Chicken)

750 Calories, 39g Fat, 62g Carbs, 37g Protein

The Chicken Grilled Cheese Burrito from Taco Bell is a great option for a protein-packed meal, offering 29 grams of protein in its standard form. If you’re looking to amp up the protein content, adding extra chicken increases that to 37 grams. While the burrito may not be the lowest-calorie option at nearly 750 calories, it’s still a good choice given the amount of protein you’re getting for the size of the burrito.

To reduce the calorie count while still enjoying a protein-rich meal, you can ask for the burrito without sour cream and nacho cheese. This will save about 100 calories without affecting the protein content.

The burrito typically contains a variety of fillings like grilled chicken, refried beans, and other flavorful components, all wrapped in a tortilla and toasted for a crispy finish. For those looking to customize, removing high-calorie items like sour cream and cheese is a simple way to lower the calorie count without losing the essential protein boost.

The Healthiest Tacos at Taco Bell

Who doesn’t love tacos? Whether you’re in the mood for a soft taco or something with a little crunch, there’s always something to satisfy that craving. You can even choose between flour or corn tortillas, and maybe even double-stack them if you’re feeling wild.

The best part about tacos is how customizable they are. Take the Soft Taco Supreme, for example—switch up the beef for grilled chicken and you get more protein and fewer calories. It’s an easy way to make a taco feel like a healthier choice without compromising on taste.

If you’re looking to cut calories even more, ordering your taco “fresco style” is a game changer. Fresco means you swap out the cheese and sour cream for fresh tomatoes. A Soft Taco Supreme with this twist comes in at just 160 calories, but still has that delicious taco flavor.

Going meatless doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Ordering a black bean taco instead of beef or chicken gives you a tasty vegetarian option. For the calorie-conscious, choosing both vegetarian and fresco style brings that taco down to only 140 calories!

Lowest Calorie Taco at Taco Bell

Crunchy Taco: 170 Calories | 9g Fat | 13g Carbs | 8g Protein

When looking for a light bite at Taco Bell, the Crunchy Taco is a solid choice. With just 170 calories, it’s an easy option for anyone watching their intake. It packs 9 grams of fat, 13 grams of carbs, and 8 grams of protein—making it a balanced but not too heavy snack.

Highest Calorie Taco at Taco Bell

Doritos Cheesy Gordita Crunch: 500 Calories | 28g Fat | 41g Carbs | 20g Protein

If you’re craving something more indulgent, the Doritos Cheesy Gordita Crunch will hit the spot. At 500 calories, it’s the highest-calorie taco on the Taco Bell menu. It’s loaded with 28 grams of fat, 41 grams of carbs, and 20 grams of protein—definitely not for the calorie-conscious!

Best Taco for High-Protein

Chicken Taco: 250 Calories | 7g Fat | 24g Carbs | 22g Protein

If you’re aiming to load up on protein at Taco Bell, creativity is key. A simple customization can turn a regular soft taco into a protein powerhouse. Just ask for extra grilled chicken, light cheese, black beans, lettuce, and tomatoes—this combo will keep you full while helping you hit your protein goals for the day.

The Healthiest Burritos & Quesadillas at Taco Bell

Burritos are second only to tacos in popularity at Taco Bell. They’re a perfect, portable meal, easy to enjoy on the go. Whether it’s the Chipotle Chicken Melt or the Grilled Cheese Burrito, there’s something for everyone.

The calories in Taco Bell burritos can vary greatly. A small Chipotle Chicken Melt has only 190 calories, while a Grilled Cheese Burrito tops out at 720. That’s a huge difference depending on what you’re craving.

Taco Bell loves to mix things up. Limited-time options like the Quesarito or double steak burritos pop up, keeping the menu exciting. It’s always a good idea to check for these rotating specials when you’re hungry.

When deciding what to order, protein can be a big game-changer. Some burritos pack a hefty protein punch, and adding extra meat will boost that even more. For example, swapping beef for chicken in a Beefy 5-Layer Burrito can take protein up to 29 grams.

Want to lower your calorie count? Skip the cheese sauce and sour cream. Focus on beans or pico de gallo to still enjoy flavor but with fewer calories. It’s all about making smart swaps!

Lowest Calorie Burrito at Taco Bell

Chicken Chipotle Melt: 190 Calories | 9g Fat | 16g Carbs | 12g Protein

The cheesy roll-up, at just 190 calories, might seem like a lighter option, but it’s more of a snack than a meal. If you’re looking for something more filling but still low in calories, the version with grilled chicken could be your best bet. It’s a great way to add a protein boost while keeping the meal balanced.

Highest Calorie Burrito at Taco Bell

Grilled Cheese Burrito: 720 Calories | 40g Fat | 64g Carbs | 26g Protein

The Grilled Cheese Burrito from Taco Bell is a popular menu item that features seasoned beef, nacho cheese sauce, seasoned rice, fiesta strips, creamy chipotle sauce, and reduced-fat sour cream, all wrapped in a flour tortilla and grilled with melted cheese on the outside. It’s a savory and filling option for those looking for something hearty, though it’s also quite calorie-dense.

The Best Options for High-Protein

Steak or Chicken Quesadilla: 520 Calories | 26g Fat | 41g Carbs | 26g Protein

The Steak Grilled Cheese Burrito is one of the highest-protein burritos on the menu, providing 28 grams of protein, but it also comes with 700 calories, making it less efficient in terms of protein-to-calorie ratio. In comparison, the Chicken and Steak Quesadillas provide 26 grams of protein with only 500 calories, making them a more balanced choice for those looking for more protein with fewer calories.

The Healthiest Specialties & Sides at Taco Bell

It’s a great day when Taco Bell’s Nacho Fries return to the menu. These crispy fries, sprinkled with bold seasoning, have been missed by many. The talk of them possibly becoming permanent is enough to get anyone excited!

One thing to keep in mind is that the portion sizes of Nacho Fries can change. Sometimes, you’ll get a decent amount, while other times, it feels like you’re being shorted. But hey, if you’re lucky and the server’s in a good mood, you might score extra!

Taco Bell offers more than just fries, though. Mexican Pizzas, Crunch Wraps, and Power Bowls round out the menu. These options give you a variety of flavors, whether you’re in the mood for something hearty or a lighter choice.

Power Bowls are perfect if you’re trying to make a healthier choice. Grilled chicken, minus the cheese, keeps the protein high while keeping calories low. Salsa and hot sauce are great add-ins to keep the flavor without the extra fat.

For me, I’d ditch the nacho cheese and shredded cheese, loading up on fresh toppings instead. Salsa and pico de gallo are my go-to for flavor. I love how I can customize the Power Bowl to my taste and keep it on the healthier side!

Lowest Calorie Side Dish at Taco Bell

Black Beans: 50 Calories | 1.5g Fat | 7g Carbs | 3g Protein

For a lighter side at Taco Bell, the Black Beans are a great option. With only 50 calories, they won’t weigh you down. Packed with 1.5 grams of fat, 7 grams of carbs, and 3 grams of protein, they make for a satisfying and healthy addition to any meal.

Highest Calorie Side Dish at Taco Bell

Large Nacho Fries without Nacho Cheese Sauce: 410 Calories | 23g Fat | 46g Carbs | 5g Protein

If you’re in the mood for something hearty, Taco Bell’s Large Nacho Fries without the cheese sauce is the highest-calorie side. Coming in at 410 calories, they’re pretty filling. With 23 grams of fat, 46 grams of carbs, and just 5 grams of protein, they’re a tasty but rich option for your meal.

Nacho Fries With Nacho Cheese Sauce: 470 Calories | 27g Fat | 50g Carbs | 6g Protein

If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, Nacho Fries with Nacho Cheese Sauce are the way to go. At 470 calories, they’re the highest-calorie side at Taco Bell. With 27 grams of fat, 50 grams of carbs, and 6 grams of protein, they’re definitely a treat for those not worried about calorie count!

The Best Taco Bell Specialty Item for Protein

Power Menu Bowl: 460 Calories | 21g Fat | 41g Carbs | 27g Protein

Power Menu Bowl with grilled chicken is a great choice. It’s packed with 27 grams of protein and only around 460 calories, making it a satisfying yet nutritious option. Customize it however you like, but even as-is, it’s a solid choice for hitting those macronutrient goals.

The Healthiest Breakfast Items at Taco Bell

There’s something about Taco Bell’s breakfast menu that just calls to you. Even if you’ve never had it before, just glancing at the options makes you want to dive right in. The flavors sound exciting, and it’s hard not to feel tempted.

With breakfast, it’s true there’s not a lot of wiggle room for making swaps or cutting calories. But hey, it’s not hopeless. You can still make a few tweaks here and there if you’re trying to be a bit healthier.

If bacon or sausage isn’t your thing, don’t sweat it. You can swap out the usual breakfast meats for grilled steak instead. And honestly, steak and eggs? That combo is a classic winner.

Want to cut down just a bit? Try leaving out the cheese. It may not seem like much, but if you go for the cheesy toasted breakfast burrito with steak and ditch the nacho cheese sauce, you’re saving a few calories—down to 310, to be exact. Not a game-changer, but it’s something!

And really, no breakfast is complete without a hash brown. Let’s be real—crispy hash browns are an absolute must-have, especially when it comes to fast food breakfast. In my book, they’re non-negotiable.

Lowest Calorie Breakfast Item at Taco Bell

Cheesy Breakfast Burrito Potato: 350 Calories | 14g Fat | 44g Carbs | 9g Protein

For a lighter breakfast at Taco Bell, the Cheesy Breakfast Burrito Potato is a decent choice. It has 350 calories, making it the lowest-calorie breakfast item on the menu. With 14 grams of fat, 44 grams of carbs, and 9 grams of protein, it’s a filling yet not too heavy option to start your day.

Highest Calorie Breakfast Item at Taco Bell

Breakfast Sausage Crunchwrap: 750 Calories | 49g Fat | 53g Carbs | 21g Protein

The Breakfast Sausage Crunchwrap is the highest-calorie breakfast item at Taco Bell, coming in at 750 calories. It’s loaded with 49 grams of fat, 53 grams of carbs, and 21 grams of protein. Definitely a hearty option for those looking for a filling breakfast, but not the best choice if you’re watching your calorie intake.

The Best Taco Bell Breakfast for High-Protein

Steak Breakfast Quesadilla: 510 Calories | 25g Fat | 41g Carbs | 28g Protein

Taco Bell’s breakfast menu offers plenty of high-protein choices, many packing over 20 grams of protein. However, if you’re watching calories, the steak breakfast quesadilla stands out. With just over 500 calories and nearly 30 grams of protein, it’s a great option that balances both nutrition and flavor.

How to Save Calories at Taco Bell: Order Fresco Style

Fresco Style isn’t its own menu. It’s more like an ordering trick you can use, similar to “animal style” at In-N-Out. By asking for “Fresco Style,” you can make a dish lighter without changing it entirely.

When ordered Fresco Style, it replaces mayo or dairy-based sauces, shredded cheese, nacho cheese, and sour cream with fresh diced tomatoes. It’s a simple swap but can make a big difference.

This swap often leads to noticeable calorie savings. For instance, swapping a Soft Taco Supreme with beef to Fresco Style drops calories from 210 to 160. A small change, but it adds up if you’re ordering a lot.

And it’s not just about calories. Fresco Style is also ideal for those who need or choose to avoid dairy. It allows people to enjoy their favorite items without missing out completely.

Interestingly, some people even prefer the taste of a Fresco Style taco. A crunchy taco, for example, can be more flavorful when cheddar is replaced by the freshness of tomatoes. Sometimes simplicity just tastes better.

Small changes like these can add up over time. Especially if you’re ordering several items, it can be surprising how much you save—whether it’s calories or avoiding dairy altogether.

Build Your Own Macro-Friendly Taco Bell Order

Shells & Tortillas

Filling (Regular Amount for One Taco or Burrito)

Toppings (Per One Taco; Amount Varies for Burritos or Quesadillas)

With Taco Bell’s super customizable menu, it’s possible to create a high-protein, low-calorie order. This guide helps visualize how to mix and match your options. Start with a shell, add a protein, and choose toppings to fit your goals.

Whether you prefer a soft or crunchy shell, the possibilities are endless. Choose your favorite protein, then add calorie-free toppings like tomatoes, onions, or lettuce. It keeps things simple and healthy without piling on unnecessary calories.

Interestingly, a single taco and a burrito have the same meat portion, according to Taco Bell’s nutrition calculator. So, you can use the same building approach for a burrito if that’s what you’re craving. It’s all about flexibility.

Be aware of how much sauce you’re using. For instance, spicy ranch adds just 30 calories to a taco, but ordering it as a side means much more sauce—and more calories. It’s easy for those extras to add up if you’re not paying attention.

If you need some inspiration for macro-friendly options at Taco Bell, here are a few ideas to get started. You won’t have to piece them together yourself—these are ready-to-order suggestions.

There isn’t a single “best” option since everyone has different macro needs. These options are versatile, allowing easy tweaks to fit your goals. They’re high-protein and healthy, perfect for when you need a quick, balanced bite.

These suggestions are all about making things simple. If you don’t want to overthink it, just choose from these options to keep things both tasty and nutritious. It takes the guesswork out of eating macro-friendly on the go.

1. Grilled Chicken Doritos Locos Taco

For a protein-packed twist, swap the beef in a Doritos Locos Taco for grilled chicken, then add extra grilled chicken. It’s a light option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

190 Calories, 7g Fat, 12g Carbs, 19g Protein

2. Bean Burrito with Steak

Take the classic bean burrito up a notch—add extra steak for a serious protein boost. It’s hearty, filling, and still fits your macros.

460 Calories, 14g Fat, 57g Carbs, 28g Protein

3. Grilled Chicken Power Bowl

A Grilled Chicken Power Bowl is already packed with goodness, but make it even better by adding extra grilled chicken. Black beans, rice, and veggies round out this balanced meal.

390 Calories, 12g Fat, 38g Carbs, 32g Protein

4. Steak Quesadilla

Order a steak quesadilla with extra steak, but skip the creamy jalapeno sauce to save on calories. It’s still cheesy and satisfying, perfect for those steak cravings.

500 Calories, 23g Fat, 42g Carbs, 33g Protein

5. Steak & Eggs Breakfast Burrito

For a morning boost, order a steak and eggs breakfast burrito without the bacon, but add extra steak and eggs. Keep it light on the nacho cheese for a balanced start to your day.

440 Calories, 20g Fat, 39g Carbs, 27g Protein

Conclusion

Taco Bell has had a reputation for low-quality ingredients, but that’s been changing. Nowadays, they’re offering better, fresher options that make it easier to eat healthier.

If you look closely at the menu, you’ll see some genuinely quality choices. Taco Bell isn’t as unhealthy as it used to be, and there are plenty of ways to make a meal that’s both tasty and nutritious.

Ultimately, the healthiness of a Taco Bell meal comes down to what you order. Substitutions like opting for “Fresco Style” can make all the difference by cutting calories while keeping flavor intact.

To keep calories low, it’s best to limit things like nacho cheese, sour cream, and guacamole. Choosing lighter toppings, like salsa, can go a long way in making a meal healthier without sacrificing flavor.

And hey, if you’re going to Taco Bell, you’re probably in the mood for a treat. Sometimes it’s okay to just enjoy whatever you want without stressing about calories—everyone deserves that now and then.