170 Calories Of Craveable Crunch: The Complete Nutritional Breakdown Of The Doritos Locos Taco
The Doritos Locos Taco (DLT) remains one of Taco Bell's most iconic and successful menu items, a perfect marriage of fast-food crunch and chip-aisle flavor. As of December 23, 2025, the standard Nacho Cheese Doritos Locos Taco contains a surprisingly low 170 calories, making it one of the most frequently asked-about items on the menu for those managing their diet.
The crucial question for many fans isn't just about the flavor, but the nutritional impact of that Doritos-flavored shell. This deep dive provides the most current, detailed nutritional facts for all popular variants of the DLT, from the classic Nacho Cheese to the Supreme version, helping you make an informed choice on your next Taco Bell run.
The Definitive Doritos Locos Taco Calorie and Nutritional Facts (2025)
The calorie count for a Doritos Locos Taco is highly dependent on the style and flavor you choose. The standard version, which includes seasoned beef, lettuce, and shredded cheddar cheese, is quite moderate in its calorie footprint. The "Supreme" version adds reduced-fat sour cream and diced tomatoes, slightly increasing the overall count.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the most popular Doritos Locos Tacos currently available on the Taco Bell menu:
- Nacho Cheese Doritos Locos Taco (Standard): 170 Calories
- Cool Ranch Doritos Locos Taco (Standard): 170 Calories
- Nacho Cheese Doritos Locos Taco Supreme: 190 Calories
Detailed Nutritional Profile: Nacho Cheese DLT (Standard)
Understanding the macronutrient breakdown is essential for fitting this craveable treat into a specific diet plan, such as a high-protein or low-carb regimen. The standard Nacho Cheese Doritos Locos Taco offers a balanced mix of fat, carbohydrates, and protein, with sodium being the most significant factor to monitor.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Taco | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 170 kcal | — |
| Total Fat | 10g | 13% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Cholesterol | 25mg | 8% |
| Sodium | 360-370mg | ~16% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 13g | 5% |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g | 11% |
| Sugars | 1g | — |
| Protein | 7-8g | — |
*Based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Data compiled from multiple fast-food nutrition databases.
The Supreme Difference: What Adds the Extra Calories?
The Nacho Cheese Doritos Locos Taco Supreme clocks in at 190 calories. This small increase of 20 calories comes from the addition of two key ingredients that enhance the flavor profile and texture: reduced-fat sour cream and diced tomatoes. The Supreme version also slightly increases the fat content to 11g and the carbohydrate count to about 15g.
For those aiming for a strict calorie deficit, opting for the standard DLT over the Supreme version is a minor, but measurable, way to save a few calories and grams of fat.
Doritos Locos Taco vs. The Classic Crunchy Taco: A Calorie Showdown
One of the most surprising facts about the Doritos Locos Taco is its nutritional parity with its predecessor. The standard Taco Bell Crunchy Taco—the one with the plain corn shell—also contains 170 calories. This means that the Doritos flavoring, while adding significant zest and a unique texture, does not add any substantial calories or fat compared to the classic shell.
The ingredients are nearly identical: seasoned beef, lettuce, and shredded cheddar cheese. The primary difference is the shell's composition, where the DLT shell is infused with the proprietary Nacho Cheese seasoning. This comparison is excellent news for fans, as you don't have to sacrifice flavor for a lower calorie count when choosing between the two.
- Calorie Tie: Both the standard Crunchy Taco and the standard Doritos Locos Taco are 170 calories.
- Macronutrient Similarity: Both tacos hover around 7-8g of protein and 9-10g of fat, making them comparable choices for a quick, low-calorie meal.
Smart Ordering: How to Make Your Doritos Locos Taco Healthier
While the Doritos Locos Taco is already one of the lower-calorie items on the Taco Bell menu, smart customization can further reduce calories, fat, and sodium, making it a viable option for weight management or a calorie-controlled diet.
1. Order it "Fresco Style"
This is the ultimate hack for ordering healthier at Taco Bell. Ordering any item "Fresco Style" automatically replaces high-fat, high-calorie dairy ingredients—like the shredded cheddar cheese and reduced-fat sour cream—with freshly prepared pico de gallo. This simple swap significantly reduces the fat content without sacrificing flavor. Fresco Style DLTs can sometimes drop the calorie count to around 150-160 calories.
2. Swap the Protein
The standard DLT comes with seasoned beef. While this is a classic choice, you can often swap it for grilled chicken or black beans at no extra charge (or a small upcharge, depending on the location). Grilled chicken is generally a leaner protein source, while black beans add valuable dietary fiber, contributing to a feeling of fullness.
3. Skip the Cheese
If you prefer the standard ingredients but want a slight reduction, simply asking to "hold the cheese" will save you a few grams of fat and about 20-30 calories. The Nacho Cheese flavor in the shell is usually enough to carry the taste without the need for additional dairy.
The Doritos Locos Taco offers a compelling case for a fast-food favorite that doesn't completely derail your nutrition goals. Its modest 170-calorie count, coupled with the ability to customize it "Fresco Style," makes it an excellent choice for satisfying a craving while adhering to a weight management plan. Just remember to keep an eye on the sodium, especially if you plan on eating more than one!
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