Famous Dave's Mac and Cheese: A Closer Look at the Calories
When ordering at Famous Dave's, it's important to differentiate between the various mac and cheese options available. The restaurant has offered different versions over time, with the classic 'Cheesy Mac & Cheese Side' being a perennial favorite. Understanding the nutritional breakdown is key for anyone watching their intake.
The Standard Side Dish
The most common mac and cheese order is the side dish, which is typically paired with platters and entrees. A single serving of Dave's Cheesy Mac & Cheese Side is listed at 280 calories. It's a modest portion designed to complement, not overpower, the main course. It's helpful to break down the macronutrients to get a fuller picture of its content:
- Carbohydrates: A significant portion of the calories come from carbs, given that pasta is the primary ingredient.
- Fats: Cheese sauce contributes a notable amount of fat, adding to the rich and creamy texture.
- Protein: With a solid 12 grams of protein, it's not a negligible source, which helps with satiety.
Specialty and Larger Servings
For those who opt for a more substantial serving, such as the Dave's BBQ Mac & Cheese entree, the calorie count increases significantly. A single order of the BBQ mac and cheese, for instance, contains a much larger 680 calories. This is due to the added ingredients and a larger portion size.
A Breakdown of Mac and Cheese Calories
To better illustrate the difference in calorie counts, here is a comparison table of Famous Dave's mac and cheese offerings. This helps customers quickly see how their choice impacts their meal's total caloric load.
| Mac and Cheese Variety | Serving Size | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Total Carbs (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dave's Cheesy Mac & Cheese Side | 1 serving | 280 | 11 | 34 | 12 |
| Dave's BBQ Mac & Cheese | 1 entree order | 680 | 26 | 85 | 28 |
| Dave's Cheesy Mac & Cheese (Burger Add-On) | 1 add-on portion | 50 | n/a | n/a | n/a |
Making Healthier Choices at Famous Dave's
Navigating the menu with health in mind means understanding the impact of each selection. Here are some tips for enjoying your meal at Famous Dave's while staying mindful of calorie intake:
- Consider the side dish: The Cheesy Mac & Cheese Side is a relatively moderate indulgence when enjoyed as part of a balanced meal. Its 280 calories are manageable.
- Beware of larger portions: Choosing an entree-sized mac and cheese significantly increases the calorie count. If you are watching your intake, the entree might be better shared or avoided.
- Balance your meal: If you choose the mac and cheese, pair it with a leaner protein like grilled chicken instead of a high-calorie burger or platter. This helps keep the overall meal within a reasonable range.
- Look for alternatives: Famous Dave's offers other side dishes that may be lower in calories. Options like the Garden Side Salad without dressing (100 calories) or a Sweet Corn may be more suitable for calorie-conscious diners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Famous Dave's mac and cheese a healthy option?
While delicious, Famous Dave's mac and cheese is generally not considered a healthy option due to its higher calorie, fat, and sodium content. The side dish is a modest indulgence, but larger portions or entrees are quite substantial and should be consumed in moderation.
What is the difference in calories between the side and entree mac and cheese?
A side serving of Famous Dave's Cheesy Mac & Cheese contains 280 calories, whereas a larger entree portion, such as the Dave's BBQ Mac & Cheese, has 680 calories. The BBQ version includes more ingredients and a larger size, which accounts for the significant calorie difference.
Can you find allergen information for Famous Dave's mac and cheese?
Yes, Famous Dave's provides detailed nutrition and allergen information on its website. It is recommended to check their official guide or ask a manager directly for the most up-to-date allergen details regarding the mac and cheese.
What are the main ingredients in Famous Dave's mac and cheese?
Famous Dave's mac and cheese is made with pasta and a creamy cheese sauce, with specific recipes varying by item. The Dave's BBQ Mac & Cheese entree also includes meat and other additions.
Does Famous Dave's offer other low-calorie side options?
Yes, for those seeking lower-calorie alternatives, Famous Dave's menu includes sides like the Garden Side Salad without dressing, which has 100 calories, and corn.
Are the calories listed on the menu accurate for Famous Dave's?
Famous Dave's strives to provide accurate nutritional information, but it's important to remember that slight variations can occur due to different preparation methods and portioning at individual restaurant locations. They recommend checking their website for the most current information.
How does the mac and cheese side compare to other Famous Dave's sides?
When comparing sides, the Cheesy Mac & Cheese side (280 calories) is a mid-range option. It's more caloric than a Garden Side Salad (100 calories) but less so than some other fried options or specialty sides.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the caloric content of Famous Dave's mac and cheese varies depending on the specific item ordered. A standard Cheesy Mac & Cheese Side contains 280 calories, making it a flavorful yet moderate indulgence. However, a full entree like the Dave's BBQ Mac & Cheese significantly increases the calorie count to 680. For those managing their intake, it's essential to check the serving size and consider pairing the dish with a lighter main course or choosing a lower-calorie side option. By understanding these nutritional differences, diners can continue to enjoy Famous Dave's flavorful offerings while making mindful choices for their diet.
Keypoints
- Side Dish Calories: A single side serving of Famous Dave's Cheesy Mac & Cheese contains 280 calories.
- Entree Calories: The Dave's BBQ Mac & Cheese entree contains a much higher 680 calories per order.
- Macronutrient Breakdown: The Cheesy Mac & Cheese side has 11g of fat, 34g of carbs, and 12g of protein.
- Menu Variation: Calorie counts can differ based on menu variations and portion sizes across locations.
- Informed Ordering: Being aware of these differences allows for more informed and balanced dining decisions when enjoying a meal at Famous Dave's.
- Compare Options: Other sides like the Garden Side Salad offer a much lower calorie alternative.
