LongHorn Sweet Potatoes: The Calorie Breakdown
LongHorn Steakhouse offers a popular baked sweet potato side dish, but its nutritional profile changes drastically depending on how it's served. Understanding the calorie count for both the plain and topped versions is crucial for anyone monitoring their intake.
The Plain Sweet Potato: A Healthy Foundation
The plain baked sweet potato at LongHorn is a relatively moderate and primarily carbohydrate-based side. This version is a good choice for those seeking a healthier option with minimal added fat or sugar.
- Macronutrients: A plain sweet potato contains 240 calories, with 55 grams of total carbohydrates and 9 grams of dietary fiber. It has 5 grams of protein and 0 grams of fat. Sodium is low at 95mg.
- Preparation: The plain sweet potato is simply baked, preserving its fiber and minimizing caloric additions.
- Health Benefits: Baked sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A), vitamin C, and potassium. The fiber content aids digestion and promotes fullness.
The Cinnamon Sugar and Butter Sweet Potato: A Caloric Boost
Adding cinnamon sugar and butter significantly changes the nutritional profile, increasing both calories and fat.
- Macronutrients: This version contains 380 calories, a 58% increase from the plain. Total fat rises to 14 grams, with 9 grams of saturated fat, and sugar increases to 24 grams.
- Impact on Diet: This option is higher in saturated fat and sugar, contributing significantly to daily limits. One serving provides 45% of the daily recommended saturated fat value.
Nutritional Comparison: Plain vs. Topped Sweet Potato
The table below shows the key nutritional differences between the plain and topped LongHorn sweet potato:
| Nutrient | Plain Sweet Potato | Cinnamon Sugar & Butter Sweet Potato | 
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 240 | 380 | 
| Total Fat | 0g | 14g | 
| Saturated Fat | 0g | 9g | 
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 35mg | 
| Sodium | 95mg | 170mg | 
| Total Carbohydrate | 55g | 62g | 
| Dietary Fiber | 9g | 9g | 
| Total Sugars | 17g | 24g | 
| Protein | 5g | 5g | 
How to Customize Your Order for Fewer Calories
To enjoy a LongHorn sweet potato with fewer calories, customize your order.
- Ask for it plain: This provides the 240-calorie version.
- Request toppings on the side: This gives you control over the amount of cinnamon sugar and butter you add, helping to reduce calories.
- Use your own low-calorie toppings: Consider bringing your own alternatives like a zero-calorie sweetener or cinnamon.
Conclusion
The calorie count for a LongHorn sweet potato varies significantly based on toppings. The plain version is a nutritious 240-calorie option, while the version with cinnamon sugar and butter is 380 calories due to added fat and sugar. By requesting it plain or with toppings on the side, you can manage your calorie intake while still enjoying this side dish.
Learn more about sweet potato nutrition at Healthline.