Understanding the Nutritional Breakdown
The 12oz Ft. Worth Ribeye at Texas Roadhouse is a significant entree, and its nutritional content reflects that. Beyond the initial 960-calorie figure, it's beneficial to break down the macronutrient composition to understand where those calories come from.
- Total Fat: The steak contains approximately 72g of total fat, which is 92% of the daily recommended value based on a 2,000 calorie diet. This includes 30g of saturated fat, which is a considerable portion of the daily limit. Ribeye is known for its marbling, which contributes to its rich flavor but also its high fat content.
- Protein: With 78g of protein, this ribeye is an excellent source of this vital macronutrient, offering well over the average person's daily needs. This is a key factor for muscle growth and repair, making it a popular choice for those with high protein goals.
- Carbohydrates: The steak itself is very low in carbohydrates, with only a small amount coming from seasoning. The carbohydrate count is typically listed as 6g to 12g, depending on the nutrition source, and any significant carb load would come from the accompanying sides.
- Sodium: The ribeye has a significant sodium level, around 1,180mg, which is 51% of the daily recommended intake. This is something to consider, especially if you are monitoring your sodium consumption.
How Sides and Preparation Affect the Total Calorie Count
The 960-calorie figure for the 12oz ribeye is a baseline, and your total meal could be significantly higher depending on your choices. The standard offering at Texas Roadhouse typically includes sides and sauces that can add hundreds of calories.
Here is a list of popular Texas Roadhouse side items and their approximate calorie counts:
- Baked Potato (plain): ~380 calories
- Loaded Baked Potato: ~650 calories
- House Salad (without dressing): ~230 calories
- Steak Fries: ~360 calories
- Mashed Potatoes: ~220 calories
- Side of Sautéed Onions: ~90 calories
- Side of Sautéed Mushrooms: ~60 calories
- Honey Cinnamon Butter (for rolls): ~100 calories per ounce
As you can see, pairing a 960-calorie ribeye with a loaded baked potato and a house salad with dressing could push your total meal well over 2,000 calories.
Calorie Comparison: 12oz Ribeye vs. Other Steaks
To put the 12oz ribeye's calorie count into perspective, here's a comparison with other steak options at Texas Roadhouse:
| Steak Cut | Size | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|---|
| USDA Sirloin | 6 oz | 250 |
| USDA Sirloin | 8 oz | 340 |
| Dallas Filet | 8 oz | 360 |
| New York Strip | 12 oz | 640 |
| Ft. Worth Ribeye | 12 oz | 960 |
| Bone-In Ribeye | 20 oz | 1480 |
This comparison table shows that the 12oz Ft. Worth Ribeye is one of the more calorie-dense steak options on the menu due to its higher fat marbling. For those looking for a lower-calorie steak, a smaller cut or a leaner type like the USDA Sirloin would be a better choice.
Making Informed Choices
Even with a high-calorie main course like the ribeye, you can make smarter choices to balance your meal. Instead of a high-calorie side like a loaded baked potato, consider a lighter alternative. A house salad (dressing on the side) or fresh vegetables can help reduce overall caloric intake while providing valuable nutrients. Simply swapping out a loaded baked potato for a plain one and a house salad for fresh vegetables can save you over 500 calories. Another strategy is to share the entree, as a 12oz steak provides more than enough protein for most people in a single sitting.
Conclusion
The 12oz Ft. Worth Ribeye from Texas Roadhouse contains approximately 960 calories, primarily from its fat and protein content. The final calorie total of your meal can be significantly affected by your side dish and sauce choices. By being mindful of these additions and considering leaner steak options or portion control, you can still enjoy a delicious meal while managing your calorie intake effectively. For the most accurate and up-to-date nutritional information, it is always recommended to consult Texas Roadhouse's official nutrition facts, often found on their website.
