The question of how many calories are in a 13 oz ribeye from Outback Steakhouse has a surprisingly complex answer, as the total number depends heavily on what is included with the steak. The official value is 950 calories for the steak with two standard sides. For those who track their macros, understanding the breakdown of the steak itself versus the complete meal is crucial.
The Ribeye Alone: A Closer Look at the Steak Itself
For many looking at their diet, the steak itself is the primary concern. Nutritional data aggregators provide a clearer picture of the steak's core caloric value, stripping away the impact of side dishes, sauces, and other restaurant additions.
Independent analysis indicates that the 13 oz ribeye without sides contains approximately 710 calories. This number is still significant and is mainly derived from its high fat and protein content. Ribeye steaks are prized for their marbling, the intramuscular fat that melts during cooking to produce a juicy, flavorful result. It is this marbling that contributes to the ribeye having more calories than leaner cuts like sirloin or filet mignon.
Nutritional Breakdown (Based on Outback's 13 oz Ribeye, without sides):
- Calories: 710 kcal
- Total Fat: 45g (with 20g of saturated fat)
- Protein: 75g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sodium: 530mg
Factors Affecting the Calorie Count
Several variables influence the final calorie count of a restaurant steak, beyond just the cut and size. When ordering at a place like Outback, it's worth considering these factors:
- Cooking Method: The process used to cook the steak matters. While grilling or searing can be a healthier method, restaurant chefs often add butter, oil, or rich marinades to enhance flavor, which increases the overall calorie count.
- Seasoning: Outback's signature seasoning is a key part of their recipe, and its ingredients, particularly salt, are reflected in the sodium content.
- Marbling: The natural variation in marbling between individual cuts of meat means that no two steaks will have the exact same fat content, leading to slight variations in total calories.
- Side Dishes: The difference between the 710-calorie steak and the 950-calorie meal comes from the sides. Outback's standard offerings, like a Baked Potato or a side of vegetables cooked in butter, add hundreds of calories to the total.
Comparison of Steak Cuts
To put the Outback 13 oz ribeye's nutritional profile into perspective, here is a comparison with other common steak cuts, standardized per 100g (3.5 oz). This shows why ribeye is a more calorie-dense choice.
| Cut | Calories (per 100g) | Total Fat (per 100g) |
|---|---|---|
| Ribeye | approx. 291 kcal | approx. 20.8g |
| Strip Steak | approx. 244 kcal | approx. 13.8g |
| Filet Mignon | approx. 227 kcal | approx. 11.0g |
| Sirloin Steak | approx. 200 kcal | approx. 10.0g |
Tips for Enjoying a Ribeye While Mindful of Calories
If you're watching your intake but still crave a rich ribeye, here are some strategies:
- Portion Control: Consider sharing the 13 oz steak with a companion. Splitting it in half will significantly cut down your calorie intake.
- Request No Added Butter or Oil: Ask the chef to prepare your steak with minimal or no added fats during cooking.
- Choose Lighter Sides: Opt for steamed vegetables or a house salad with a light dressing instead of richer, butter-heavy sides like a loaded baked potato or seasoned fries.
- Trim Excess Fat: When your steak arrives, you can visually trim and set aside some of the larger fatty portions to reduce the overall fat consumption.
- Savor Slowly: Eating mindfully and enjoying each bite can help you feel more satisfied with a smaller portion.
Conclusion
The Outback Steakhouse 13 oz ribeye is a flavorful, high-fat, high-protein cut. With standard sides, it totals 950 calories, but the steak itself is closer to 710 calories. The high calorie density is a direct result of its superior marbling, which also provides its signature tenderness and flavor. By being aware of these nutritional facts and making mindful choices about your sides and preparation, you can still enjoy this popular restaurant dish while managing your dietary goals. For specific menu information and potential changes, always refer to the official Outback Steakhouse website.
