The Official Calorie Count and What's Included
For anyone keeping track of their diet, knowing the nutritional details of your favorite restaurant meal is crucial. The official Outback Steakhouse website lists the 6-piece coconut shrimp appetizer as containing 610 calories. This figure is for the shrimp and its accompanying Creole marmalade dipping sauce alone, before factoring in any additional side dishes like Aussie Fries or mixed vegetables. If you were to add a side of Aussie Fries, for example, the total meal would increase by 500 calories, bringing the combined total to over 1,100 calories.
It's also worth noting that different serving sizes, such as add-on portions, will have different calorie counts. For example, a single add-on serving of coconut shrimp is reported to be around 342 calories. This variation highlights the importance of checking the specific portion size when considering the overall caloric impact of your meal.
Full Nutritional Breakdown
Beyond just the calories, the Outback coconut shrimp contains a significant amount of other macronutrients. The deep-fried nature of the dish means it is high in fat, carbohydrates, and sodium. A closer look at the nutritional profile shows the following approximate values based on various nutritional tracking sites and official menus:
- Total Fat: Around 24-34 grams, with a notable portion being saturated fat due to the frying process.
- Saturated Fat: Roughly 12-18 grams, which is a high percentage of the daily recommended value.
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 42-59 grams, heavily influenced by the breading and the sugary dipping sauce.
- Sugar: About 21 grams, primarily from the Creole marmalade.
- Protein: The shrimp provides a decent amount of protein, around 23-50 grams depending on the source and serving size.
- Sodium: The sodium content is also quite high, often exceeding 1,000 mg for the appetizer portion.
Caloric Comparison: Coconut Shrimp vs. Other Outback Appetizers
To put the coconut shrimp's caloric density into perspective, let's compare it to some other popular appetizers on the Outback menu. This table breaks down the approximate calories for each item.
| Appetizer | Approximate Calories | Key Contributing Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Gold Coast Coconut Shrimp (6-piece) | 610 | Deep-fried, sweet breading, sugary sauce |
| 8 Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie | 630 | Grilled preparation, seasonings, no heavy breading |
| Seared Peppered Ahi | 440 | Fresh tuna, seared with pepper, light sauce |
| Steakhouse Mac & Cheese Bites | 660 | Deep-fried, cheese sauce, pasta |
Note: Calorie counts can vary slightly by location and over time, so it's always best to check the restaurant's most current nutritional guide. The comparison illustrates that while the coconut shrimp is high in calories, other items like the grilled shrimp or seared ahi offer significantly lower-calorie options.
What Makes Coconut Shrimp So Calorie-Dense?
The simple process of deep-frying is the main reason behind the high-calorie count of this appetizer. The shrimp is dipped in a batter, rolled in shredded coconut, and then fried in oil. This process adds a substantial amount of fat, which is the most calorie-dense macronutrient. Furthermore, the breading adds carbohydrates, and the sweet Creole marmalade dipping sauce is full of sugar, further increasing the overall calorie load. While delicious, the combination of these ingredients makes it a caloric indulgence rather than a light appetizer.
How to Enjoy a Lighter Version of Coconut Shrimp
For those who love the flavor but not the calories, there are several ways to make a smarter choice:
- Share the appetizer: A single serving of the coconut shrimp can be a substantial portion of a person's daily calorie intake. Sharing it with others helps to reduce the per-person portion size and, consequently, the calories consumed.
- Ask for sauce on the side: The Creole marmalade is delicious but high in sugar. Asking for it on the side gives you control over how much you use, potentially saving dozens of calories. A quick dip is all you need for flavor.
- Make a lighter version at home: Recipes for baked or air-fried coconut shrimp are widely available and significantly cut down on the fat and calories from deep-frying. You can also use unsweetened shredded coconut and reduce the sugar in the dipping sauce for an even healthier alternative.
- Substitute wisely: Consider ordering a grilled option instead, like the Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie, which provides flavor without the heavy breading and frying.
Navigating the Outback Menu for Healthier Options
Outback Steakhouse recognizes that many diners are looking for healthier choices. The official website features a "Smart Dining" section with tips for navigating their menu. These suggestions include choosing wood-fire grilled options, ordering sauces on the side, and opting for lighter dressings. For seafood lovers, the grilled fish and shrimp dishes are generally lower in calories than their deep-fried counterparts. By making small adjustments, it's possible to enjoy a satisfying meal at Outback without derailing your dietary goals.
Conclusion: The Bottom Line on Outback's Coconut Shrimp
Outback Steakhouse's coconut shrimp is a flavorful and popular appetizer, but its deep-fried preparation makes it a high-calorie and high-fat option. A 6-piece serving contains 610 calories, a figure that does not include any accompanying side dishes. While an occasional treat is fine, for those seeking to manage their weight or improve their heart health, it is important to be mindful of its nutritional impact. Opting for grilled shrimp, sharing the appetizer, or making a healthier baked version at home are all excellent ways to enjoy the flavors you love with fewer calories. For a complete look at their menu and nutrition, you can consult the official Outback nutrition guide.
Key Takeaways on Outback Coconut Shrimp Calories: official Outback nutrition guide
Calorie Count: A 6-piece appetizer of Outback Steakhouse coconut shrimp officially contains 610 calories. High Fat & Carbs: The dish is high in both fat and carbohydrates due to the deep-frying process, battered coating, and sweet dipping sauce. Share to Save: Sharing the appetizer or opting for a smaller add-on portion is an effective way to significantly reduce your calorie intake. Sauce on the Side: Ask for the Creole marmalade on the side to control the amount of sugar and calories you consume. Healthier Alternatives: For a lower-calorie alternative, consider a grilled shrimp dish from the menu or try a homemade baked or air-fried version. High Sodium: The sodium content is high, often over 1,000 mg for the full appetizer, which should be considered for those watching their salt intake.
