Your Potbelly Roast Beef Calorie Guide
When grabbing a sandwich at Potbelly, knowing the nutritional details can help you make a more informed decision. The exact number of calories in a Potbelly roast beef sandwich depends on the size and bread option you select. The most common varieties are the Original, BIGS, Skinny, and Flat.
The Original Roast Beef Sandwich
For the classic Original size, the roast beef sandwich contains approximately 513 calories. This size offers a balanced amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. While satisfying, it also comes with a notable sodium content of 1508mg, which is a significant portion of the recommended daily limit.
Breaking Down the Sizes: Original vs. Bigs vs. Skinny
Potbelly offers a range of sizes to suit different appetites and dietary goals. Here is a comparison of the key nutritional data for three different roast beef sandwich options:
| Roast Beef Sandwich Size | Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Protein | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Original | 513 | 16g | 7g | 33g | 1508mg |
| BIGS | 673 | 21g | 9g | 44g | 1970mg |
| Skinny | 410 | 13g | 5g | 28g | 860mg |
The BIGS version is substantially larger and packs a considerable calorie and sodium punch. The Skinny option, however, provides a much lighter alternative, reducing both calories and sodium significantly by using less bread, meat, and cheese. For those watching their weight or sodium intake, the Skinny is a much more suitable choice.
Customization and Its Impact
The beauty of Potbelly is the ability to customize your sandwich, but each add-on can change the nutritional profile. Here’s a list of common customizations and how they can affect your order:
- Mayonnaise: Standard mayo adds approximately 100 calories and 11g of fat per serving. Swapping it for mustard or skipping it altogether is a simple way to cut calories.
- Cheese: Adding extra provolone cheese increases the calorie count by around 70-80 calories per slice, depending on the thickness.
- Sauces and Toppings: Opting for the house-made hot peppers will add flavor without adding many calories. However, a rich sauce like ranch dressing can add a significant calorie boost.
- Fresh Vegetables: Loading up on extra lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers is a great way to add volume and nutrients with minimal caloric impact.
Choosing a Healthier Option: The Flat vs. Original Bread
Potbelly also offers a 'Flat' bread option, which can help manage your calorie intake. The Roast Beef Flat sandwich, for example, contains 423 calories, which is nearly 100 calories less than the Original version. This is a great middle-ground for those who want a decent-sized sandwich but with fewer carbs. The Flat is a smarter choice for calorie-conscious diners, and it also lowers the sodium content compared to the Original sandwich.
How to Verify Nutritional Information for Your Order
For the most accurate and up-to-date nutritional information, especially if you plan on customizing your sandwich heavily, it's best to use the official Potbelly nutrition calculator. This tool is available on their website and allows you to build your specific meal and see a detailed breakdown of the calories, fat, protein, carbs, and sodium. This is the most reliable method for dietary planning and allergen checking.
Conclusion
In summary, the number of calories in a Potbelly roast beef sandwich ranges from 410 for a Skinny Roast Beef & Provolone to 673 for a BIGS Roast Beef. The Original size comes in at 513 calories. Your final calorie count is highly dependent on your choices regarding size, bread type, and customization. By being mindful of these factors, particularly size and add-ons like mayo, you can enjoy this popular sandwich while staying within your dietary goals. To get the most accurate count for a custom order, consult the official Potbelly nutritional calculator.
