Unpacking the Calorie Count
The Applebee's Bourbon Burger is officially known as the Bourbon Street Mushroom Swiss Burger. When served with a side of classic fries, the total meal clocks in at a substantial 1620 calories. This figure is provided directly on the Applebee's website, though third-party nutrition databases may report slightly different, yet similarly high, values. Understanding what contributes to this high number is key for anyone trying to manage their dietary intake. From the buttery Brioche bun to the cheese, sauces, and fries, each component adds up quickly.
What Makes the Bourbon Burger so Caloric?
Several elements contribute to the dense calorie count of the Bourbon Street Mushroom Swiss Burger meal. Here is a breakdown:
- The Burger Patty: The juicy, all-beef patty is a major source of protein and fat, contributing a large number of calories before any toppings are added.
- Toppings and Sauces: The burger features two slices of Swiss cheese, sautéed onions, mushrooms, black pepper sauce, and a house-made garlic mayo. The cheese and mayo are particularly high in fat and calories.
- The Brioche Bun: Brioche buns are richer than standard burger buns, often made with eggs and butter, which increases their caloric density.
- The Classic Fries: The standard side of fries is another significant contributor. Many restaurant fries are deep-fried, adding a considerable amount of fat and calories to the overall meal.
A Comparison of Burger Calories
To put the Bourbon Burger's calorie count into perspective, here is a comparison with other popular Applebee's burgers. Note that these figures can fluctuate based on restaurant preparation and recipe changes.
| Burger Name | Calories (without fries) | Calories (with classic fries) |
|---|---|---|
| Bourbon Street Mushroom Swiss Burger | Approx. 1099 | 1620 |
| Classic Burger | Approx. 780 | Approx. 1120 |
| Classic Bacon Cheeseburger (no cheese) | 880 | Not available |
| Whisky Bacon Burger (without sides) | 1290 | Not available |
This comparison shows that the Bourbon Street Mushroom Swiss Burger, even without fries, is one of the more calorie-dense options on the menu. Adding fries pushes it significantly higher than many other choices.
Making Healthier Choices at Applebee's
If you're dining at Applebee's but want to reduce your calorie intake, you have several options. For example, you can modify your order to bring the total number down:
- Skip the fries: Request a healthier side dish, such as steamed broccoli or a side salad with a low-fat dressing. This can immediately shave hundreds of calories from your meal.
- Omit the sauce: The garlic mayo and black pepper sauce add a substantial number of calories. Asking for no sauce or for it on the side can be an effective strategy.
- Hold the cheese: Swiss cheese, while delicious, is a significant source of fat and calories. Requesting no cheese is an easy way to reduce the total count.
- Order a lighter entree: Consider one of Applebee's lower-calorie options, like a grilled chicken dish or a top sirloin, which typically come in at a fraction of the calories.
The Complete Nutritional Breakdown
Beyond just calories, the Bourbon Burger meal is high in fat, sodium, and carbohydrates. According to nutrition data, the Bourbon Street Mushroom Swiss Burger with fries contains:
- Total Fat: 105g (135% of the daily value)
- Saturated Fat: 31g (155% of the daily value)
- Sodium: 2910mg (127% of the daily value)
- Total Carbohydrates: 103g (37% of the daily value)
This indicates that the meal exceeds the recommended daily intake for fat and sodium for most adults. A meal this high in sodium is especially concerning for individuals with high blood pressure.
Conclusion: Informed Dining is Key
Knowing how many calories in a bourbon burger from Applebee's, and the meal as a whole, is crucial for anyone monitoring their health and diet. At 1620 calories, the Bourbon Street Mushroom Swiss Burger and fries is a significant, high-fat, and high-sodium meal. While it can be enjoyed as an occasional treat, understanding its nutritional impact allows you to make an informed decision or choose healthier modifications. By requesting alternative sides or skipping certain high-calorie ingredients, it is possible to still enjoy a meal at Applebee's without consuming an entire day's worth of calories in one sitting. For a complete look at Applebee's nutritional information, their official website is the most accurate source.
