Texas Roadhouse 6 oz Filet Mignon: The Calorie Breakdown
For those tracking their nutritional intake, understanding the components of a meal is crucial. The 6 oz filet mignon at Texas Roadhouse, also referred to as the Dallas Filet, is a popular choice for its tender cut and satisfying flavor. The core nutritional information for this item reveals a balanced profile focused primarily on protein, with a moderate amount of fat and low carbohydrate content.
The 270-calorie base for the 6 oz filet is a great starting point for a meal plan. However, the final tally can change dramatically depending on how you customize your order. Simply adding butter, a standard practice for many steak preparations, or opting for certain side dishes can significantly increase the total calories and other macronutrients. For example, a single tablespoon of butter adds approximately 100 calories, while a loaded baked potato can add over 600 calories.
Nutritional Information for the 6 oz Dallas Filet
The nutritional profile of the Texas Roadhouse 6 oz Dallas Filet is relatively lean compared to other steak cuts. This makes it an appealing option for diners who are conscious of their health goals. Here is a more detailed look at the macronutrients, based on available data:
- Calories: 270
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 45g
Factors That Influence Your Filet's Calorie Count
When ordering, several factors can affect the total calorie count of your meal. Be mindful of these to stay on track with your dietary goals.
Added Fats and Toppings
- Butter: The standard preparation often includes a pat of butter, which will increase the fat and calorie content. Requesting the steak without butter is a simple modification to reduce calories.
- Smothering Options: Texas Roadhouse offers various 'smothering' options, such as sautéed mushrooms, onions, or gravies. These can add a substantial number of calories. Sautéed mushrooms, for instance, add approximately 60 calories, while a portion of brown gravy adds 70 calories.
Sides and Accompaniments
- Side Dishes: The sides you choose can make or break your nutritional intentions. A simple house salad (without dressing) is a low-calorie choice, while a loaded baked potato or steak fries are much higher. Opting for a side of fresh vegetables or green beans will keep the meal lighter.
- Condiments and Sauces: Dipping sauces and toppings like sour cream or extra butter for a baked potato add hidden calories. Even the honey cinnamon butter served with the signature rolls contains 100 calories per ounce.
How Does It Compare to Other Steak Cuts?
To put the 6 oz Dallas Filet's calorie count into perspective, here is a comparison with other common steak sizes and cuts found at Texas Roadhouse.
| Steak Cut (Texas Roadhouse) | Size | Approximate Calories | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas Filet | 6 oz | 270 | Leanest and most tender cut; a good choice for calorie awareness. |
| Dallas Filet | 8 oz | 360 | Larger size, increases all macros proportionally. |
| USDA Steak Sirloin | 6 oz | 250 | A leaner, slightly lower-calorie alternative to the filet. |
| USDA Steak Sirloin | 8 oz | 340 | Also a lean option, with calories increasing with size. |
| Ft. Worth Ribeye | 10 oz | 800 | Significantly higher in calories and fat due to rich marbling. |
This comparison highlights the benefits of choosing the smaller filet cut, especially if you are watching your caloric intake. The higher marbling in a ribeye, for example, contributes to a much higher fat and calorie content.
Making Smart Choices at Texas Roadhouse
Here's a list of tips for keeping your meal as healthy as possible:
- Order Without Butter: Ask for your Dallas Filet to be cooked without butter to save unnecessary calories.
- Choose Lighter Sides: Select steamed vegetables, green beans, or a house salad with a low-fat dressing on the side instead of starchy or fried options.
- Control Toppings: Be mindful of extras like sauces, gravies, and cheese, which add fat and sodium.
- Skip the Rolls: The delicious fresh-baked rolls with honey cinnamon butter are tempting but add significant calories. Just one roll with butter is 220 calories.
- Drink Water: Opt for water or unsweetened tea instead of sugary sodas, which contain empty calories.
Conclusion
A 6 oz filet mignon from Texas Roadhouse, the Dallas Filet, is a relatively low-calorie and high-protein entree, coming in at approximately 270 calories. This makes it an excellent choice for a satisfying meal that aligns with many dietary goals. However, the final calorie count is heavily dependent on the preparation and the sides you select. By making conscious choices, such as avoiding added butter and opting for healthier side dishes, you can enjoy a delicious steak dinner without compromising your nutritional plan.
Note: All nutritional values are based on the core entree. Calorie counts can vary slightly between locations and with different preparations. Consult the Texas Roadhouse website for the most accurate and up-to-date nutrition facts.
