A juicy, hand-cut ribeye from Texas Roadhouse is a popular and flavorful choice for many diners. However, with its rich marbling, it's also one of the more calorie-dense options on the menu. A full understanding of its nutritional value, and what contributes to it, is essential for health-conscious eaters.
The Breakdown of Ribeye Calories
The calories in a Texas Roadhouse ribeye primarily come from two macronutrients: protein and fat. A ribeye cut is known for its high degree of marbling, which is the intramuscular fat that gives the steak its rich flavor and tenderness. The greater the marbling, the higher the fat content, and consequently, the higher the calorie count.
For example, the 10-ounce Ft. Worth Ribeye contains about 800 calories. The 14-ounce version of the same cut jumps to 1,120 calories, and the 16-ounce portion reaches around 1,280 calories based on nutritional averages. The bone-in 20-ounce option is listed at 1,110 calories, but this can also vary slightly. These figures are for the steak itself, before the addition of any sides or extra toppings.
How Cooking Affects Calorie Counts
Texas Roadhouse, like many steakhouses, often adds butter during the cooking process to enhance flavor. This practice increases the overall calorie and fat content of the steak. Simply asking for your steak to be cooked without butter can help reduce the total calorie count of your meal, though the inherent marbling will still make it a richer option than a leaner cut like sirloin.
Comparison of Texas Roadhouse Steak Calories
To put the ribeye's calorie count in perspective, here is a comparison with other popular steak options from Texas Roadhouse. These figures represent the approximate calories for the steak alone, without any sides, sauces, or butter.
| Steak Cut | Size | Approximate Calories | Approximate Protein | Approximate Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ft. Worth Ribeye | 10 oz | 800 | 65g | 60g |
| Ft. Worth Ribeye | 14 oz | 1,120 | 90g | 84g |
| Bone-In Ribeye | 20 oz | 1,110 | 107g | 76g |
| Dallas Filet | 6 oz | 270 | 46g | 10g |
| Dallas Filet | 8 oz | 360 | 61g | 13g |
| Sirloin | 6 oz | 250 | 46g | 5g |
| Sirloin | 11 oz | 460 | 84g | 9g |
From the table, it is clear that the ribeye, with its excellent marbling, contains significantly more fat and calories per ounce than the leaner sirloin or filet options. The Dallas Filet, in particular, stands out as a much lower-calorie option for those watching their intake.
Strategies for a Lighter Meal
Enjoying a great steak at Texas Roadhouse while maintaining your health goals is entirely possible with a few strategic choices. Here are some tips to help manage the calorie load:
- Choose a smaller portion. Opting for the 10-ounce ribeye instead of the larger cuts is the most impactful way to reduce calories. Even better, consider a leaner 6 or 8-ounce Sirloin or Filet.
- Ask for no butter. All steaks are basted in butter unless you request otherwise. Simply asking for your steak to be cooked "plain" or "without butter" is a quick way to save hundreds of calories.
- Select your sides wisely. Your side dishes can easily double the calorie count of your meal. A loaded baked potato with cheese and bacon can contain more calories than the steak itself. Instead, choose a plain baked potato, a side of fresh vegetables, or a house salad with dressing on the side.
- Limit the rolls. The famous Texas Roadhouse rolls with cinnamon butter are delicious, but each roll is a caloric addition. Consider having just one or skipping them altogether.
- Divide and conquer. If you have your heart set on a larger ribeye, consider sharing it with a friend or taking half home for another meal. This simple act of portion control can make a big difference.
The Nutritional Value of Steak
Beyond just the calories, a ribeye steak is a nutrient-dense food. It is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues. Steak also provides crucial nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, particularly Vitamin B12. Even with its higher fat content, it contains a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. For those on a high-protein, low-carb diet, steak can be a good fit, as long as the total calorie count is managed.
By being mindful of portion sizes, cooking preparations, and side dish selections, you can still enjoy the robust flavor of a Texas Roadhouse ribeye without completely derailing your dietary plans. For detailed nutritional information, always consult the most current data provided by the restaurant, which is often available on their website or third-party nutrition databases.
Conclusion
Ultimately, how many calories are in a ribeye from Texas Roadhouse depends on its size and how it's prepared. The most common 10-ounce Ft. Worth Ribeye contains approximately 800 calories, with larger cuts exceeding 1,000. The key takeaways for managing your calorie intake are to choose a smaller size, request the steak without added butter, and make conscious choices with your side dishes. With a little planning, you can indulge in a delicious ribeye while staying on track with your health goals.