The Nutritional Breakdown of the Texas Roadhouse 20 oz Bone-In Ribeye
For many steak lovers, the 20 oz bone-in ribeye at Texas Roadhouse is a centerpiece meal, offering a rich, flavorful experience. However, its size and marbled fat content mean it carries a significant caloric load. A detailed look at the nutritional information provides a clearer picture of what you are consuming, allowing you to make more informed decisions about your meal.
The 1,480 calories in this steak are predominantly derived from fat and protein. Specifically, the nutritional profile shows:
- Total Fat: 101g (129% Daily Value)
- Saturated Fat: 44g (220% Daily Value)
- Trans Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 450mg (150% Daily Value)
- Sodium: 1720mg (75% Daily Value)
- Carbohydrates: 20g (7% Daily Value)
- Protein: 143g
What Impacts the Calorie Count?
The sheer size of the 20 oz steak is the primary factor, but the cut of meat itself also plays a huge role. A ribeye is a fatty cut, known for its generous marbling, which contributes to both its tenderness and high fat content. The cooking method, which typically involves grilling and potentially basting with additional fat or butter, further adds to the calorie count. Any seasonings used are responsible for the high sodium content.
Making Smart Choices with Your Steak
Given the high calorie and fat content, especially for a single meal, it's wise to consider portion control. This is a steak that is large enough to share or to save half for another meal. Splitting the steak with a companion is an excellent way to enjoy the flavor while managing your caloric intake. If you're dining alone, ask for a to-go box when you order and immediately pack away half of your steak and half of your sides.
Comparing Texas Roadhouse Steaks
To put the 20 oz bone-in ribeye in perspective, here is a comparison with other popular steak options from Texas Roadhouse, based on reported nutritional information:
| Steak Cut | Size | Approximate Calories | Approximate Protein | Approximate Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bone-In Ribeye | 20 oz | 1,480 | 143g | 101g |
| Prime Rib | 12 oz | 940 | 90g | 64g |
| Ft. Worth Ribeye | 12 oz | 960 | 99g | 66g |
| USDA Sirloin | 16 oz | 670 | 122g | 16g |
| New York Strip | 12 oz | 640 | 95g | 28g |
Note: Nutritional values can vary based on preparation and actual size. This comparison shows that while other steaks are also calorie-dense, the 20 oz bone-in ribeye stands out as the most calorific option due to its size and fat content. This table also highlights the USDA sirloin as a significantly leaner choice.
The Impact of Sides
Beyond the steak itself, the side dishes chosen can drastically alter your total meal calories. While the steak is the main event, the often-heavy sides can push a meal well past 2,000 calories.
Here are some common Texas Roadhouse side items and their calorie counts:
- Loaded Baked Potato: 650 calories
- Steak Fries: 360 calories
- Fresh Baked Roll (one): 120 calories
- House Salad (without dressing): 230 calories
- Green Beans: 100 calories
Pairing a 1,480-calorie steak with a loaded baked potato and a couple of rolls can easily create a meal exceeding 2,300 calories. Choosing lighter sides like steamed vegetables or a side salad with a low-calorie dressing is a straightforward way to reduce the overall impact of your dinner.
Portion Control and Dining Habits
For those watching their calorie intake, a different steak choice or a smaller cut might be the best option. However, if your heart is set on the ribeye, remember that splitting it or eating half is a perfectly valid strategy. Consider saving the other half for a future meal, which effectively halves the calorie count per sitting. You can also ask for your steak without the extra butter or basting to shave off some calories without sacrificing the fundamental flavor of the meat.
Conclusion
The 20 oz bone-in ribeye from Texas Roadhouse is an undeniably decadent and large meal, providing 1,480 calories from fat and protein. While delicious, it is crucial for diners to be aware of its nutritional density. By making conscious choices about portion sizes and accompanying side dishes, you can still enjoy this steak while managing your overall dietary goals. Informed decisions are the key to balancing a splurge meal with a healthy lifestyle.
