Ground beef tacos

Ground beef tacos

Dinner

Item Rating: 70/100

1 serving (150 grams) contains 250 calories, 15.0 grams of protein, 12.0 grams of fat, and 20.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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394.3
calories
23.7
protein
31.5
carbohydrates
18.9
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (236.6g)
Calories
394.3
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 18.9 g 24%
Saturated Fat 7.9 g 39%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 63.1 mg 21%
Sodium 630.9 mg 27%
Total Carbohydrates 31.5 g 11%
Dietary Fiber 4.7 g 16%
Sugars 3.2 g
protein 23.7 g 47%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 157.7 mg 12%
Iron 3.2 mg 17%
Potassium 473.2 mg 10%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar
⚠️ Contains trans fat

Source of Calories

32.2%
24.3%
43.5%
Fat: 170 cal (43.5%)
Protein: 94 cal (24.3%)
Carbs: 126 cal (32.2%)

About Ground beef tacos

Ground beef tacos are a popular dish in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisines, typically featuring seasoned ground beef served in a tortilla alongside toppings like lettuce, tomato, cheese, and salsa. Ground beef provides a rich source of complete protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, and contains important nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins (specifically B12). Depending on the beef's fat content and preparation method, the caloric and fat content can vary considerably. Including vegetables in your tacos adds fiber and vitamins, making the dish more balanced and nutritious. Ground beef tacos are often enjoyed in both casual and celebratory settings due to their versatility and bold flavors.

Health Benefits

  • Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, providing approximately 22 grams per 3-ounce cooked serving, which supports muscle growth and tissue repair.
  • Rich in heme iron, ground beef aids in preventing iron-deficiency anemia and boosting oxygen transport in the body.
  • Contains vitamin B12, critical for neurological function and the production of red blood cells, with a 3-ounce serving delivering nearly 35% of the daily recommended intake.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains None inherently in ground beef, Possible cross-contamination with gluten in some taco seasonings
Suitable for: High-protein diets, low-carb diets (if tortillas are omitted or replaced)
Not suitable for: Vegetarian diets, vegan diets, diets requiring strict fat restriction (depending on fat content of the beef)

Selection and Storage

Store raw ground beef in the refrigerator at 40°F or below and use within 1-2 days, or freeze for up to 4 months. Cooked ground beef can be refrigerated for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

Common Questions About Ground beef tacos Nutrition

How much protein and calories are in ground beef tacos?

A standard ground beef taco made with a 2 oz serving of ground beef (80% lean), a small corn tortilla, cheese, lettuce, and salsa contains approximately 200 calories and 12 grams of protein. These values can vary depending on the toppings and tortilla type.

Are ground beef tacos suitable for a keto diet?

Yes, ground beef tacos can be keto-friendly if you use low-carb alternatives like lettuce wraps instead of traditional tortillas. With this adjustment, the meal will primarily consist of protein and fats, making it compatible with a keto diet.

What are the health benefits or concerns of eating ground beef tacos?

Ground beef tacos provide a good source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, making them beneficial for muscle and red blood cell health. However, high-fat ground beef and excess cheese can increase saturated fat and calorie intake, which may impact heart health if consumed in large quantities or frequently.

What is the recommended portion size for ground beef tacos?

A typical serving is about 2-3 tacos per person, with each taco containing about 2-3 ounces of cooked ground beef. Stick to one to two tacos if you’re monitoring calorie intake, and pair with a fresh side like salad or vegetables for a more balanced meal.

How do ground beef tacos compare to chicken tacos in terms of health?

Ground beef tacos are higher in fat and calories than chicken tacos, depending on the leanness of the beef used. For example, 80% lean ground beef has about 230 calories and 15g of fat per 3 oz, while skinless cooked chicken breast has around 140 calories and 3g of fat per the same serving size. Substituting chicken for beef can be a lower-calorie and lower-fat option.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.