Texas Roadhouse Steak Fries: The Carbohydrate Count
For many diners, the signature steak fries are a quintessential part of the Texas Roadhouse experience. As a side dish, they are served in a generous portion alongside many entrees. A standard side order contains 53 grams of total carbohydrates. When considering net carbs—the total carbohydrates minus dietary fiber—the count is 47 grams, as the fries also provide 6 grams of dietary fiber. This high carbohydrate load is typical for fried potato products, which are primarily composed of starchy carbohydrates.
Full Macronutrient Profile of Steak Fries
Beyond just carbohydrates, the full nutritional profile paints a more complete picture of what you're consuming. A single side order of steak fries also contains 360 calories, 14g of total fat, and 5g of protein. The high sodium content, listed at 1970mg by one source, is also notable. These numbers can be a significant addition to the calories and macros of your main meal, particularly for those on calorie-restricted or low-sodium diets.
The Higher Carb Count of Texas Roadhouse Cheese Fries
Texas Roadhouse also offers an appetizer version of their fries, topped with cheese and bacon. As expected, adding these ingredients drastically increases the nutritional values. A small order of cheese fries is reported to have 90 grams of total carbohydrates, 44 grams of fat, and a whopping 860 calories. A regular-sized order is even higher, with 127 grams of total carbs and 1240 calories. This substantial increase is due to the cheese and bacon toppings, along with a larger overall portion size. For anyone concerned about carbohydrate and calorie intake, the cheese fries are a particularly carb-heavy menu item to be aware of.
Are Texas Roadhouse Fries Keto-Friendly?
Given the high carbohydrate counts, particularly the 47 grams of net carbs in a standard side of steak fries, Texas Roadhouse fries are not considered keto-friendly. The ketogenic diet typically limits daily net carb intake to 20-50 grams, meaning a single side of fries could easily exceed or consume most of a person's carb allowance for the day. For those adhering to a keto diet, it is recommended to avoid the fries entirely and opt for alternative side dishes that are lower in carbohydrates, such as a side salad (with no croutons) or fresh vegetables.
Are Texas Roadhouse Fries Gluten-Free?
Another important consideration for those with dietary restrictions is whether the fries contain gluten. Texas Roadhouse explicitly states on its nutritional information that cross-contact with allergens may occur. This means their fries are not a safe gluten-free option. The frying oil is likely shared with other gluten-containing menu items, such as fried pickles or boneless wings, leading to cross-contamination. Some also speculate that the seasoning used on the fries may contain wheat. Therefore, individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid the fries and choose a truly gluten-free side option.
Comparison of Texas Roadhouse Fries and Alternatives
Understanding how Texas Roadhouse's various potato sides compare nutritionally is helpful for making informed decisions. Below is a comparison table outlining the key differences between the plain steak fries and the more indulgent cheese fries, as well as some lower-carb alternatives.
| Menu Item | Total Carbs (g) | Net Carbs (g) | Calories | Diet Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steak Fries (Side) | 53 | 47 | 360 | High Carb |
| Cheese Fries (Small) | 90 | 80 | 860 | Extremely High Carb |
| Cheese Fries (Regular) | 127 | 113 | 1240 | Extremely High Carb |
| Green Beans (Side) | ~10 | ~7 | ~100 | Lower Carb |
| Fresh Vegetables (Side) | ~11 | ~7 | ~190 | Lower Carb |
| Side Salad (No Croutons) | Low | Low | Moderate | Keto-Friendly |
Healthier Alternatives to Fries
For those seeking a healthier or lower-carb alternative to the Texas Roadhouse fries, there are several options available. Opting for a side of Fresh Vegetables or Green Beans will provide significantly fewer carbohydrates and calories while adding valuable vitamins and minerals to your meal. A Baked Potato can be a moderately high-carb choice but offers more dietary control if ordered plain. You can then add a touch of butter rather than the high-fat and high-carb toppings. When ordering a salad, always request no croutons and use a low-calorie dressing to keep the carb count in check. Texas Roadhouse is a restaurant where you can easily find low-carb options with some minor adjustments.
Conclusion
In summary, the number of carbs in Texas Roadhouse fries can vary significantly depending on the serving size and whether you order them plain or loaded. A standard side of steak fries contains 53 grams of total carbohydrates, while the larger, cheese-topped versions have a much higher carb count. These numbers place the fries outside the range of a typical keto diet and also make them unsuitable for those avoiding gluten due to cross-contamination concerns. By understanding the nutritional information, you can make smarter choices and find lower-carb alternatives that still allow you to enjoy your dining experience at Texas Roadhouse.
For more information on making healthy choices while dining out, visit the Verywell Fit website for comprehensive nutrition guides.
