The Core Calories: 8 oz Dallas Filet
At its base, the 8 oz Dallas filet from Texas Roadhouse is a relatively lean cut of beef. Official nutrition information confirms that a standard 8 oz serving, without any added butter, delivers 360 calories. This makes it a solid, high-protein option for many diners. The filet is prized for its tenderness and mild flavor, coming from a muscle that does very little work, making it a delicate and premium cut.
Macronutrient Breakdown
The 360 calories in the 8 oz Dallas filet are composed primarily of protein and fat, with a minimal amount of carbohydrates. This makes it a favorable choice for those following low-carb or high-protein diets. The breakdown is as follows:
- Protein: 60g
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Sodium: 960mg
These values are important to consider, especially the sodium content, which contributes to the overall daily intake. The high protein count is a major benefit, as protein helps promote feelings of fullness and supports muscle health.
The Real-World Calorie Count: Why Add-ons Matter
The 360-calorie figure for the steak alone is just the starting point. Most Texas Roadhouse steaks are brushed with butter and served with generous portions of complimentary items like rolls and peanuts, plus chosen side dishes. The small details can add up very quickly.
The Impact of Butter and Seasoning
Texas Roadhouse's famous Honey Cinnamon Butter is delicious but high in calories. One ounce contains 100 calories. A side of Garlic Butter adds 170 calories per ounce. The house seasoning and preparation methods also contribute to the final calorie, fat, and sodium tally. It is crucial to be mindful of these additions if you are tracking your intake closely. To avoid these extra calories, you can simply ask for your steak to be cooked without butter and seasoning.
Side Dish Calorie Comparison
Your side dish choices have the most significant impact on the total calorie count of your meal. A loaded baked potato, for example, can add 650 calories, while fresh steamed vegetables add only 190 calories. Making smart swaps can dramatically lower your total meal calories. Here is a comparison of side dishes:
| Side Dish | Calories | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Plain Baked Potato | 380 | Toppings add significant calories |
| Plain Sweet Potato | 350 | Toppings (caramel, marshmallows) add 420+ calories |
| Steak Fries | 360 | High-calorie fried option |
| Mashed Potatoes | 220 | Creamy and high in fat |
| Fresh Steamed Vegetables | 190 | Healthy, low-calorie choice, ask for no butter |
| House Salad | 230 | Dressing adds significant calories, get it on the side |
| Green Beans | 100 | Ask for no butter for a low-calorie side |
Comparison to Other Texas Roadhouse Steaks
For those considering other steak options, it's helpful to see how the Dallas filet stacks up in terms of calories and other nutritional information. The following table compares the 8 oz Dallas Filet with other popular steak cuts on the menu.
| Steak Cut | Size | Calories | Protein | Total Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas Filet | 8 oz | 360 cal | 60g | 13g |
| USDA Sirloin | 8 oz | 340 cal | 62g | 13g |
| New York Strip | 12 oz | 640 cal | 56g | 33g |
| Ft. Worth Ribeye | 10 oz | 800 cal | 60g | 62g |
As the table demonstrates, the 8 oz Dallas Filet is comparable to the 8 oz Sirloin in terms of calories and macronutrients, and significantly lower in calories and fat than fattier cuts like the Ribeye and New York Strip. This makes the filet a great choice for a lower-calorie steak dinner.
How to Build a Healthier Texas Roadhouse Meal
Making a conscious effort with your order can keep your meal nutritious without sacrificing flavor. Here are some actionable steps for a healthier dining experience:
Tips for a Lighter Meal
- Hold the butter: Ask for your steak and vegetables to be cooked without butter. This is a quick and easy way to save hundreds of calories.
- Sauces on the side: Get salad dressings and other sauces on the side to control how much you use.
- Choose wisely: Opt for lean protein sources like the Dallas filet, sirloin, or grilled chicken over fattier cuts or fried options.
- Strategic sides: Select lower-calorie side dishes like fresh steamed vegetables, green beans, or a plain baked potato.
- Portion control: Texas Roadhouse is known for generous portions. Consider splitting a larger entrée with a dining partner or taking half home in a to-go box before you even start eating.
Conclusion
In summary, an 8 oz Dallas filet from Texas Roadhouse provides 360 calories, making it one of the restaurant's leaner steak options. Its high protein content makes it a satisfying choice, but the total meal calories can quickly escalate with added butter, toppings, and heavy side dishes. By making intentional choices, such as requesting your steak plain and opting for steamed vegetables, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying steak dinner while keeping your nutritional goals in mind. A little awareness goes a long way towards building a healthier meal at Texas Roadhouse.
