How to Make Taco Bell’s NEW Meal Kits Healthier

How to Make Taco Bell’s NEW Meal Kits Healthier

Meal kits have become a major trend over the past few years—and it’s no surprise why. Offering a convenient way to prepare meals at home, they save both time and trips to the grocery store. Taco Bell has recently joined the meal kit movement with their new Cravings Kits, available exclusively at Walmart. The kits feature everything you need to create fan favorites like the Crunchwrap Supreme and Chipotle Chicken Quesadilla at home.

Each kit contains Taco Bell’s famous seasonings and sauces, tortillas, and Velveeta cheese—just add your preferred protein. While these kits offer a great base for your next Taco Tuesday, you can easily make them healthier with a few simple additions. We spoke with Brookell White, MS, a registered dietitian, to share 10 easy ways to boost the nutrition of these Taco Bell meals.

10 Dietitian-Approved Tips to Make Taco Bell Cravings Kits Healthier

1. Add Lean Protein

Boost the nutritional value of your meal by adding lean proteins like chicken, shrimp, or ground turkey. These protein sources can help you feel fuller longer, build muscle, and improve bone health.

Pro Tip: For an extra protein boost, check out MyFitnessPal’s Essential Guide to Protein.

2. Mix in Black Beans

If you’re opting for a meatless meal, consider adding black beans. Just one cup of black beans packs 15 grams of plant-based protein, making it a nutritious and satisfying addition.

3. Incorporate Lettuce and Tomatoes

Adding lettuce and tomatoes brings vitamins and minerals to your meal without adding many calories. A great way to boost nutrition with minimal effort!

4. Swap Sour Cream for Greek Yogurt

For a creamy texture without the excess calories, use plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Greek yogurt is lower in calories and higher in protein.

Comparison:

• ½-cup Greek yogurt: ~80 calories, 11 grams of protein
• ½-cup sour cream: ~250 calories, 4 grams of protein

5. Top With Sautéed Bell Peppers

Enhance your meal with fiber and vitamins by adding red and green bell peppers. These vibrant veggies offer a boost of Vitamin C, A, and more.

6. Add Sautéed Spinach

Tossing in some spinach is an easy way to boost your meal’s nutrition. Spinach is packed with iron, potassium, folate, and vitamins C, A, and K.

Related Reading: Healthier Fast Food Meals Under 500 Calories

7. Serve With a Side of Vegetables

Increase the fiber content by pairing your meal with a side salad or sautéed veggies. It’s a simple way to add even more nutrients to your plate.

8. Use Less Sauce

To reduce calories, saturated fat, and sodium, simply use less sauce. Small amounts can go a long way without sacrificing too much flavor.

9. Add Avocado

Avocado provides a great source of healthy fats. Swap out cheese or sour cream for sliced avocado or guacamole to boost nutrition.

10. Mix in Brown Rice

Adding brown rice is a great way to increase fiber and incorporate complex carbohydrates, which promote slower digestion, better blood sugar control, and improved cholesterol levels.

Bottom Line: Customize Your Way to Healthier Meals

The new Taco Bell Cravings Kits are a convenient option for enjoying fast-food favorites at home. Think of them as a customizable base to create your perfect meal. Whether you’re adding guacamole for healthy fats or incorporating lean protein, these kits offer endless possibilities to “live mas”—but healthier!