A Detailed Look at the Yard House 8 oz Filet Mignon
Dining out often presents a challenge for those tracking their nutritional intake. The Yard House's 8 oz filet mignon, a popular steak entrée, is no exception. While a plain filet is generally a lean cut of beef, the total calorie count in a restaurant serving is heavily affected by added fats, sauces, and side dishes. The 900-calorie figure for this particular dish at Yard House reflects a preparation that includes more than just the steak itself, such as added oils, seasonings, and possibly a steak sauce or garnish that contribute to the overall caloric load.
Breaking Down the Macronutrients
The 900 calories in the Yard House 8 oz filet mignon are not from protein alone. A look at the macronutrient distribution shows a substantial contribution from both fat and carbohydrates. This is a key detail for anyone following a specific diet, such as low-carb or low-fat plans. The high fat content comes from added oils used during cooking, while the carbohydrates are likely from marinades, sauces, or garnishes. The protein count is also significant, which is expected from a steak dish.
The Importance of Sides and Sauces
It is crucial to remember that the listed calorie count for the entrée often includes the standard preparation, which may vary. However, the biggest variables in a diner's total caloric intake are the side dishes and any extra sauces requested. For example, a side of parmesan mashed potatoes or truffle fries would add hundreds of extra calories, transforming the meal into a much heavier indulgence. Making conscious choices about these additions is a powerful way to control the overall impact of the meal on your diet.
Comparison of Yard House Filet Mignon vs. Other Steaks
| Feature | Yard House 8 oz Filet Mignon | Yard House New York Strip Steak | Lean 8 oz Home-Cooked Filet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 900 | 1,400 | ~560 |
| Total Fat | 51g | 87g | ~42g |
| Protein | 52g | 99g | ~44g |
| Carbohydrates | 61g | 52g | 0g |
| Sodium | 2,030mg | 2,110mg | Low |
Tips for Health-Conscious Dining at Yard House
- Modify Your Order: Ask for your steak to be cooked with minimal oil or butter. Request any sauces on the side to control the amount you consume.
- Choose Lighter Sides: Instead of heavy, creamy sides, opt for healthier choices like sautéed asparagus or mixed field greens. This can drastically reduce the overall calorie count.
- Consider Gluten-Sensitive Options: Yard House provides a gluten-sensitive menu, which may offer modified versions of dishes with fewer high-carb additives.
- Portion Control: An 8 oz steak is a substantial portion. Consider splitting the entrée or saving half for later to manage intake.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water with your meal can aid digestion and help you feel full, preventing overeating.
- Review the Nutrition Guide: Before you go, check the official Yard House nutrition guide to see the most current information and plan your meal accordingly.
Understanding the Factors Behind the Calories
The large disparity between the restaurant's calorie count and a home-cooked filet is primarily due to preparation. Restaurants often use a generous amount of butter or oil during the searing and finishing process to enhance flavor. Additionally, rich sauces and accompaniments can add a significant number of calories, fat, and sodium. The Yard House's standard preparation likely includes a rich steak sauce and served alongside other ingredients, contributing to the listed nutritional information.
How to Create a Lighter Meal
Creating a lighter version of the meal is about making a few simple substitutions. Opting for a simple grilled filet and requesting steamed vegetables instead of carb-heavy sides is the easiest way to cut down. For example, replacing parmesan mashed potatoes with sautéed asparagus (60 calories) could reduce the meal's total calories significantly. This mindful approach allows you to enjoy the flavor of the high-quality steak while maintaining your dietary goals.
Conclusion
The Yard House 8 oz filet mignon contains approximately 900 calories, with a notable amount of fat, carbs, and sodium alongside its protein content. This caloric figure is significantly higher than a basic, unadorned filet due to the restaurant's preparation methods, including the use of extra fats and rich sauces. By understanding the nutritional breakdown, diners can make informed decisions by adjusting their order, choosing lighter sides, and managing portion sizes to create a more balanced and health-conscious meal. Always reviewing the restaurant's most up-to-date nutrition guide is the best strategy for accurate planning.
Related Dining Out Guides
For more insight into managing your diet while enjoying restaurant food, explore topics like comparing steakhouse calorie counts or analyzing the nutritional differences between menu items. You can find many resources online, for instance, a guide on preparing healthy steak at home to see how the numbers differ. Preparing healthy steak at home is a great way to understand ingredient impact.
How many calories are in a Yard House 8 oz filet mignon?
The Yard House 8 oz filet mignon contains 900 calories. This includes the standard preparation with sauces and accompaniments.
