The Buttermilk Biscuit and Gravy side at IHOP is a savory comfort food, but its nutritional profile is far from light. While the main menu highlights the high-calorie combination meals, understanding the components helps clarify the total impact of your meal. The side portion alone packs a significant punch, especially when considering a standard 2,000-calorie daily diet. The combination of a rich, flaky biscuit and a thick, savory sausage gravy makes for a dense and satisfying dish that is very high in fat, carbs, and sodium.
The Breakdown of IHOP's Biscuits and Gravy Side Calories
To understand where the calories come from, it's helpful to look at the macronutrient breakdown. According to nutritional data for the Buttermilk Biscuit with Sausage Gravy, the 770 calories are distributed across fat, carbohydrates, and protein.
- Fat: At 54 grams, the fat content is substantial, representing a significant portion of the daily recommended intake. Much of this comes from the butter used in the biscuit and the fat rendered from the sausage in the gravy.
- Carbohydrates: The dish contains 62 grams of carbohydrates, which primarily come from the flour used to make the biscuit.
- Protein: With 8 grams of protein, the dish provides a relatively low amount of this macronutrient compared to its fat and carb content.
What Makes It So Calorie-Dense?
Several factors contribute to the high calorie count of the biscuits and gravy side.
- Flaky Biscuit: The biscuit itself is made with butter or shortening, which significantly contributes to its calorie and fat content.
- Sausage Gravy: The gravy is often made with a roux of flour and fat from the sausage, and thickened with milk or cream, all of which adds calories and saturated fat.
- Preparation Method: The ingredients are cooked in a way that maximizes flavor but also boosts the calorie count, using fats to create a rich and indulgent texture.
Comparison: IHOP Side vs. Combos
It is critical to distinguish between the side order and the full combo meal, as the calorie difference is massive. Here's a table comparing the side to popular combo versions, with nutritional information pulled from various sources:
| Menu Item | Approx. Calories | Key Ingredients | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buttermilk Biscuit & Gravy (Side) | 750 - 770 | Buttermilk biscuit, country or sausage gravy | Single portion, no additional sides or eggs. |
| Buttermilk Biscuits & Gravy Combo w/ Sausage Gravy | 1270 | Biscuits & gravy, eggs, golden hash browns | Includes multiple sides and eggs, significantly increasing calorie count. |
| Buttermilk Biscuits & Gravy Combo w/ Country Gravy | 1280 | Biscuits & gravy, eggs, golden hash browns | Includes multiple sides and eggs, slightly different depending on gravy type. |
| IHOP Chicken Biscuit Sandwich | 1100 - 1110 | Buttermilk biscuit, chicken breast, hash browns, gravy, pickle chips | Not a side, but another high-calorie biscuit option on the menu. |
How IHOP Biscuits and Gravy Compares to Other Options
For context, IHOP's side dish can be compared to similar offerings at other restaurants. These numbers can vary, but they illustrate how a seemingly simple breakfast can contribute significantly to your daily calorie count.
| Restaurant | Item | Approx. Calories | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| IHOP | Buttermilk Biscuit & Gravy (Side) | 750 - 770 | |
| Jack's Family Restaurants | Biscuits & Gravy (2 biscuits, 8oz gravy) | 940 | |
| Whataburger | Buttermilk Breakfast Biscuit & Sausage Gravy | 470 | |
| McDonald's | Biscuit and Gravy (Combo) | 940 |
It is clear from this comparison that the IHOP side is very calorie-dense, though some competitor combos can be even higher. The portion size and ingredient richness are the primary drivers of these differences.
Nutritional Considerations and Healthier Choices
Beyond just calories, the biscuits and gravy side is also high in other less-than-healthy components.
- High in Saturated Fat: The side contains 19 grams of saturated fat, which is nearly a full day's worth for many people. Consuming high levels of saturated fat can contribute to heart disease.
- High in Sodium: With 1900mg of sodium, the side is also remarkably salty. This is very close to the recommended daily intake of 2,300mg and can contribute to high blood pressure.
- Limited Nutrients: While it provides some protein and carbs, it is not a nutritionally balanced meal and lacks essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber that are crucial for overall health.
If you want to enjoy the flavor of IHOP's breakfast without the high calorie and sodium load, consider modifications such as:
- Split the dish with a friend to reduce your portion size.
- Scoop out the interior of the biscuit to reduce some carbs and calories.
- Choose a lighter breakfast like a fruit bowl or egg whites.
- Opt for healthier sides instead, like the seasonal fresh fruit (50 calories).
Conclusion: A High-Calorie Indulgence
The IHOP biscuits and gravy side is a high-calorie, high-fat, and high-sodium dish best enjoyed as an occasional treat. The side portion itself weighs in at 750-770 calories, with full combos soaring much higher. For those watching their caloric intake, it's crucial to be aware of the nutritional density of this specific menu item and consider healthier alternatives or modifications. Prioritizing smaller portions or opting for more balanced options like fruit can help you enjoy your meal without overindulging.
For more official nutrition information, please visit the official IHOP Nutrition and Allergen Information page.
