McDonald’s breakfast burritos are a popular menu item that provide a convenient on-the-go breakfast option. However, like many fast food items, they can be high in calories. If you are watching your calorie intake, it’s important to know how many calories are in McDonald’s breakfast burritos.
In this article, we will look at the calorie counts for two of McDonald’s breakfast burrito options: the Sausage Burrito and the Bacon, Egg & Cheese Burrito. We will calculate the total calories for having two of each burrito. Knowing the calorie content will allow you to make informed choices about these menu items.
Overview of McDonald’s Breakfast Burritos
McDonald’s offers a variety of breakfast burritos on its breakfast menu. Two of the most popular options are:
– Sausage Burrito – Contains sausage, scrambled eggs, cheese and salsa wrapped in a flour tortilla.
– Bacon, Egg & Cheese Burrito – Contains bacon, scrambled eggs, cheese and salsa wrapped in a flour tortilla.
The ingredients in both burritos are quite similar, with the main difference being that one contains sausage while the other contains bacon.
Both burritos make for a convenient, hand-held breakfast. However, like all fast food, they are higher in calories, fat and sodium compared to homemade options.
Nutrition Information for McDonald’s Breakfast Burritos
To determine how many calories are in two breakfast burritos from McDonald’s, we need to look at the nutrition information for each menu item.
Here are the key nutrition facts for each standard breakfast burrito at McDonald’s:
Sausage Burrito
– Calories: 350
– Total Fat: 21g
– Saturated Fat: 8g
– Trans Fat: 0.5g
– Cholesterol: 135mg
– Sodium: 820mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 31g
– Protein: 13g
Bacon, Egg & Cheese Burrito
– Calories: 350
– Total Fat: 19g
– Saturated Fat: 8g
– Trans Fat: 0g
– Cholesterol: 125mg
– Sodium: 910mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 36g
– Protein: 13g
As you can see, both burritos are relatively high in calories, fat, and sodium. They each contain 350 calories per standard burrito.
Total Calories in 2 Sausage Burritos
Now let’s calculate the total calories if you were to eat 2 Sausage Burritos from McDonald’s:
– Calories per Sausage Burrito: 350
– Sausage Burritos ordered: 2
Total calories in 2 Sausage Burritos:
– 350 calories x 2 burritos = 700 calories
Therefore, the total calories if you eat 2 standard Sausage Burritos from McDonald’s is 700 calories.
That represents a significant portion of the average recommended daily calorie intake. The recommended daily calorie intake for adults is between 1,600-2,400 calories, depending on age, gender and activity level.
Total Calories in 2 Bacon, Egg & Cheese Burritos
Now let’s look at the total calories for 2 Bacon, Egg & Cheese Burritos:
– Calories per Bacon, Egg & Cheese Burrito: 350
– Bacon, Egg & Cheese Burritos ordered: 2
Total calories in 2 Bacon, Egg & Cheese Burritos:
– 350 calories x 2 burritos = 700 calories
The total calories for having 2 Bacon, Egg & Cheese Burritos is also 700 calories.
Therefore, whether you order 2 Sausage Burritos or 2 Bacon, Egg & Cheese Burritos, the total calorie count is 700 calories.
Comparing Calories in McDonald’s Burritos to Other Menu Items
To put the 700 calories for 2 breakfast burritos into context, let’s compare that to some other popular McDonald’s menu items (nutrition data via McDonald’s USA):
| Menu Item | Calories |
|---|---|
| Big Mac | 540 |
| 6-piece Chicken McNuggets | 280 |
| Filet-O-Fish | 380 |
| Medium Fries | 340 |
| Hamburger | 250 |
| Small McCafe Mocha | 170 |
As you can see, the 700 calories for having 2 breakfast burritos is on the higher side, though not as high as a Big Mac. The burrito calories are about double a medium order of fries or a hamburger.
When making menu choices at McDonald’s, it’s helpful to be aware of the calorie differences so you can balance higher and lower calorie items. You may opt to skip the side of fries if you are having a burrito, for example.
Tips for Cutting Calories in McDonald’s Breakfast Burritos
If you want to enjoy McDonald’s breakfast burritos but reduce the calorie count, here are some tips:
– Order only 1 burrito instead of 2. This cuts the calories in half.
– Opt for egg whites instead of whole eggs.
– Skip the tortilla and enjoy the burrito fillings in a bowl.
– Order a side salad instead of hash browns or fries.
– Ask for salsa instead of cheese or sour cream sauce.
– Choose grilled chicken instead of sausage or bacon.
– Order a small coffee instead of a large McCafe drink.
Making customizations can allow you to reduce the calories while still enjoying the flavours you love. With smart choices, you can eat McDonald’s burritos as part of a balanced diet.
Nutrient Content of McDonald’s Breakfast Burritos
Beyond just calories, it’s also helpful to consider the full nutrient profile of McDonald’s breakfast burritos:
Carbohydrates
The burritos are high in carbs, containing 31g (Sausage) and 36g (Bacon, Egg & Cheese). The main sources are the tortilla and salsa.
Protein
With 13g of protein, the burritos do provide a good amount of this important nutrient. The eggs and meat provide the protein.
Fat
Total fat is 19-21g, much of which is saturated fat from the cheese and meat. Moderating fat intake is recommended when eating these.
Sodium
Sodium content is quite high, providing over a third of the daily recommended limit. This comes mostly from the meat, cheese and tortilla.
Sugar
Added sugars are low, with just 2-4g per burrito. The salsa contains some natural sugar.
When consumed in moderation alongside other healthy foods, McDonald’s breakfast burritos can reasonably fit into a balanced diet. But be mindful of getting too much of nutrients like fat and sodium.
Healthier Homemade Breakfast Burrito Options
For a lower calorie breakfast burrito option, consider making them at home. Here are some healthy recipes to try:
Turkey, Egg White and Avocado Burritos
Ingredients:
– Whole wheat tortillas
– 2 egg whites
– 1/4 cup turkey sausage crumbles
– 1/4 cup black beans
– 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup avocado
– 2 tbsp low-fat shredded cheese
– Salsa (optional)
Directions:
1. Cook egg whites and turkey sausage in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Warm the tortillas.
3. Down the center of each tortilla, layer the egg whites, sausage, black beans, tomatoes, avocado and cheese.
4. Add salsa if desired.
5. Roll up tightly and enjoy.
Nutrition per burrito: Calories: 310, Fat: 12g, Carbs: 33g, Protein 15g
Southwest Veggie Burritos
Ingredients:
– Whole wheat tortillas
– 1/2 cup egg whites or scrambled tofu
– 1/2 cup mixed peppers and onions, sauteed
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/2 cup black beans
– 1/4 cup low-fat shredded cheese
– Salsa
– 1 tbsp Greek yogurt or avocado
Directions:
1. Cook egg whites and veggies in a skillet until done.
2. Layer egg, rice, beans, cheese and salsa into tortillas.
3. Top with Greek yogurt or avocado.
4. Roll up and serve.
Nutrition per burrito: Calories: 345, Fat: 7g, Carbs: 49g, Protein: 18g
Making your own burritos allows you to control the ingredients and calories. Load them up with veggies, lean protein and fiber-rich beans or rice. It’s a delicious way to start your day right!
Conclusion
To summarize, here’s the breakdown for calories in McDonald’s breakfast burritos:
– Each Sausage or Bacon, Egg & Cheese Burrito contains 350 calories
– Having 2 Sausage or Bacon, Egg & Cheese Burritos equals 700 total calories
While convenient, these burritos are high in calories, fat and sodium. To lighten them up, customize your order or opt for healthier homemade versions. Knowing the nutrition information can help you make informed choices and enjoy McDonald’s breakfast burritos in moderation as part of an overall balanced diet.
