Texas Roadhouse Mashed Potatoes: Calorie Breakdown
For many patrons, the side of creamy mashed potatoes is an essential part of the Texas Roadhouse dining experience. While the restaurant's official PDF menu from a previous period listed the side at 260 calories, many modern nutrition trackers and databases list the number at around 220 calories for a single serving, which is a useful figure for most diners. This variation can come from slight recipe changes over time or different tracking methodologies. The key takeaway, however, is that this baseline number is for the basic side, before any additions.
The Loaded Mashed Potato Calorie Jump
If you prefer your potatoes with a little more flair, the 'loaded' version comes with a significant increase in calories. The loaded mashed potatoes, which include cheese and bacon, contain 500 calories per side. This nearly doubles the caloric intake of the standard side, a critical detail for anyone managing their daily diet. The added fat and sodium from the bacon and cheese are the main contributors to this jump, transforming a moderate side into a much more indulgent treat.
Comparing Mashed Potatoes with Other Texas Roadhouse Sides
To put the mashed potatoes' calories in perspective, here is a comparison with other popular side dishes offered at Texas Roadhouse. This table can help you make a more informed choice based on your nutritional goals. Note that calorie counts can vary slightly, so it's always best to check the latest information if you have specific dietary needs.
| Side Dish | Calories (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | 220 | Standard, without gravy or butter. |
| Loaded Mashed Potatoes | 500 | Includes cheese and bacon. |
| Fresh Vegetables | 190 | Steamed vegetables offer a lower-calorie option. |
| Green Beans | 100 | One of the lowest-calorie side options. |
| Baked Potato | 380 | Plain potato, toppings will add more calories. |
| Steak Fries | 360 | Seasoned fries are a higher-calorie choice. |
| House Side Salad | 230 | Includes dressing, and without dressing calories would be much lower. |
How to Enjoy Texas Roadhouse Mashed Potatoes More Healthfully
For those who love the taste but want to control the calories, here are some tips to make a more health-conscious choice:
- Ask for plain: Always request the mashed potatoes without butter or gravy to save a significant number of calories and fat.
- Get gravy on the side: If you must have gravy, get it on the side so you can control how much you use. A standard two-ounce serving of cream gravy adds 90 calories.
- Share with a friend: The portion size is often generous, so splitting the side with a dining companion is an easy way to cut your intake in half.
- Choose a lighter main: Balance your meal by pairing the mashed potatoes with a leaner protein option, such as the grilled salmon or a smaller sirloin cut.
The Macronutrient Breakdown
For those interested in more than just calories, the regular Texas Roadhouse mashed potatoes offer a specific macronutrient profile. Based on data from nutrition trackers, a standard serving breaks down as follows:
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 3g
This breakdown highlights that the dish's calories come mostly from carbohydrates and fat, which is typical for a creamy, buttery mashed potato side. The loaded version would see a higher percentage of fat and protein due to the added cheese and bacon.
Conclusion
Understanding the calorie content of your favorite restaurant sides is crucial for making smart dining choices. The mashed potatoes at Texas Roadhouse, while delicious, vary significantly in calories depending on how they are served. The standard side is a moderate choice at around 220 calories, but the loaded version contains 500 calories due to added toppings. By being mindful of your additions and considering lighter alternatives like green beans or a side salad without dressing, you can still enjoy your meal while staying on track with your nutritional goals. For more healthy eating insights when dining out, Verywell Fit offers a great guide to navigating the Texas Roadhouse menu.(https://www.verywellfit.com/texas-roadhouse-nutrition-facts-menu-choices-and-calories-4117997).
