If you're a fan of Mexican food, you've probably had a chimichanga before. One serving of the popular Beef & Bean Chimichangas contains 320 calories, which can be a concern for those who are watching their calorie intake. However, when eaten in moderation, chimichangas can be part of a balanced diet.

This convenience food is packed with a combination of beef, beans, and spices inside a crispy tortilla shell. Let's take a closer look at the nutritional information to see how you can enjoy these flavorful chimichangas without compromising on your health goals.

In this article, we'll share some insights into the Macronutrients, sodium, and cholesterol content of a serving of Beef & Bean Chimichangas. We'll also explore some practical tips and strategies for including this dish into a balanced diet.

Total amount of calories per serving

As previously mentioned, one serving of Beef & Bean Chimichangas contains 320 calories. This amount may seem high to some individuals, but it can fit into a diet that is properly balanced in terms of calories in versus calories out. If you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, it's important to monitor your calorie intake throughout the day. One serving of chimichangas may take up a significant portion of your daily calorie budget, leaving less room for other nutritious foods. However, if you plan ahead and adjust your other meals accordingly, you can still enjoy the flavor of chimichangas while maintaining your weight goals.

Breakdown of macronutrients

Each serving of Beef & Bean Chimichangas contains 11 grams of protein, 35 grams of carbohydrates, and 15 grams of fat. The protein content is relatively low compared to the carbohydrates and fat, which means that these chimichangas may not be the most filling option if you are looking for a high-protein meal. However, the combination of carbohydrates and fat can provide you with a quick burst of energy when you need it most. The tortilla shell is a good source of carbohydrates, which can help fuel your workouts or give you a boost of energy when you're feeling tired. If you're trying to reduce your carbohydrate intake, you can consider removing the tortilla shell and eating the beef and beans alone. This will lower the carbohydrate content while increasing the protein and fat content.

Amount of cholesterol in one serving

Each serving of Beef & Bean Chimichangas contains 30 milligrams of cholesterol. This amount may be a concern for individuals who have high cholesterol levels or who are at risk of developing heart disease. It's important to note that dietary cholesterol doesn't have as much impact on your blood cholesterol levels as previously believed. However, if you do have high cholesterol or are trying to lower your risk of heart disease, it's a good idea to limit your intake of saturated and trans fats as well. You can try reducing the amount of beef and adding more beans to your chimichanga if you want to decrease your intake of cholesterol and saturated fat.

Percentage of daily sodium intake

One serving of Beef & Bean Chimichangas contains 680 milligrams of sodium, which accounts for 29% of your daily recommended intake. Sodium is an essential nutrient that helps regulate your blood pressure and fluid balance, but too much of it can be harmful. If you have high blood pressure or are at risk of developing it, it's important to monitor your sodium intake and avoid foods that are high in salt. You can try making your own chimichangas at home and using low-sodium ingredients to reduce the sodium content. You can also pair your chimichangas with a side of vegetables or a salad to increase your intake of potassium and other nutrients that can help counterbalance the effects of sodium in your diet.

Can be part of a healthy diet

Despite their reputation as a high-calorie and high-fat food, chimichangas can be part of a healthy diet if eaten in moderation. The combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fat can provide you with energy and nutrients that your body needs to function properly. To make chimichangas a healthier option, you can opt for whole wheat tortillas instead of white tortillas, use lean ground beef or ground turkey instead of regular beef, and add more vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and spinach to the filling. It's also important to watch your portion sizes and practice moderation when eating chimichangas. Consuming too many calories and too much fat can lead to weight gain and increase your risk of developing chronic diseases.

May contain allergens

Chimichangas contain several common allergens, including wheat, dairy, and soy. If you have a food allergy or intolerance, it's important to read the ingredient list carefully and avoid any foods that may trigger an allergic reaction. You can also try making your own chimichangas at home with alternative ingredients that work for your dietary needs.

Convenient option for busy individuals

One of the benefits of chimichangas is that they are a quick and easy meal option that can be prepared in a matter of minutes. This can be especially helpful for busy individuals who don't have the time or energy to cook a full meal from scratch. If you're short on time, you can keep a few chimichangas in your freezer for a quick lunch or dinner option. Just be sure to read the nutritional information and choose a brand that uses wholesome ingredients and minimal additives. You can also pair your chimichangas with a side salad or fruit to make a complete meal that is balanced in terms of nutrients and fiber.

Potential to be high in saturated fats

Chimichangas can be high in Saturated fats, which can raise your cholesterol levels and increase your risk of developing heart disease. To reduce your intake of saturated fat, you can choose lean meat options like ground turkey or chicken, use healthy oils like olive oil or avocado oil to cook the filling, and add more vegetables to the filling. You can also remove the cheese from the filling and limit your use of sour cream or guacamole, which can be high in calories and fat.

Portion control may be difficult

One of the challenges of eating chimichangas is that it can be difficult to monitor your portion sizes. A typical serving size is only one chimichanga, but many brands sell larger portions or offer multiple units in a single package. If you're trying to control your calorie intake, it's important to read the serving size and nutritional information on the packaging to ensure that you're not consuming more calories than you intend. You can also opt for smaller portions or share a single chimichanga with a friend or family member. Additionally, make sure to pair your chimichanga with nutrient-dense foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains to ensure you get a balanced meal.

Variety of flavors available

One of the benefits of chimichangas is that they come in a variety of flavors and fillings to suit every taste preference. Whether you prefer beef, chicken, pork, or vegetarian options, there is a chimichanga flavor for you. You can also experiment with different flavor combinations and spices to make your own unique chimichanga recipe. Don't be afraid to try new things and see what works for your taste buds! Just make sure to monitor your ingredients and avoid high-calorie and high-fat options that can sabotage your health goals.