Your Guide to Texas Roadhouse Steak Calories
Dining out while following a nutrition diet can be challenging, but being informed allows for better decision-making. Knowing the calorie counts of different steak cuts can help you select a meal that aligns with your dietary goals. At Texas Roadhouse, the calorie content for an 8 oz steak is not a single number, but varies depending on the cut and fat content of the meat.
Calorie Breakdown for Common 8 oz Steaks
For those ordering an 8 oz portion, here is a general breakdown based on nutritional data:
- 8 oz USDA Choice Sirloin: This cut is one of the leaner options and typically contains around 340 calories. It's a solid choice for dieters focused on high protein and lower fat intake. The sirloin also provides a good amount of protein, clocking in at around 61 grams.
- 8 oz Dallas Filet: A Dallas Filet of this size is a richer cut and comes with a slightly higher calorie count, totaling approximately 360 calories. Despite the slight increase in calories, it offers an excellent source of protein, with about 60 grams per serving.
- 8 oz New York Strip (Thick Cut): The Thick Cut New York Strip is one of the higher-calorie options for an 8 oz steak due to its marbling. It contains roughly 420 calories. This cut is also rich in protein, providing about 57 grams.
The Impact of Sides and Add-ons
While focusing on the steak itself is a great start, the overall meal's calorie and fat content are heavily influenced by your choice of side dishes, sauces, and toppings. The delicious free bread and honey cinnamon butter can quickly add hundreds of calories, as can buttery vegetable add-ons.
Hidden calorie traps
- Loaded Baked Potato: A standard baked potato is a decent choice, but loading it with cheese, bacon, and sour cream can add significant calories and fat.
- Sautéed Mushrooms & Onions: While vegetables, they are often sautéed in large amounts of butter and oil, significantly increasing the calorie count.
- Gravy and Sauces: Topping your steak with brown gravy or other sauces can add a substantial amount of calories, fat, and sodium.
Making Smarter Choices for Your Nutrition Diet
To enjoy a flavorful meal without derailing your diet, a strategic approach to ordering is essential. Many Texas Roadhouse options can be modified to be more diet-friendly.
- Choose Leaner Cuts: Opt for the sirloin or filet over fattier cuts like the ribeye to start with a lower calorie base.
- Modify Preparation: Request that your steak and vegetables be prepared with less butter or oil. You can also ask for sauces and toppings on the side to control your portion.
- Pick Healthier Sides: Texas Roadhouse offers several lighter side options that can create a more balanced meal.
Healthier side options
- Fresh Steamed Vegetables (ask for no butter)
- House Salad (dressing on the side, hold the cheese and croutons)
- Baked Potato (plain or with minimal toppings like a light amount of sour cream)
- Green Beans (ask for them without added bacon fat)
Comparison of 8 oz Texas Roadhouse Steaks
To highlight the differences, here is a comparison table for the three main 8 oz steak options available at Texas Roadhouse, based on available nutritional data:
| Steak Cut (8 oz) | Approx. Calories | Approx. Protein | Approx. Fat | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USDA Choice Sirloin | 340 | 61g | 8g | A leaner and high-protein choice. |
| Dallas Filet | 360 | 60g | 13g | Richer and more tender than the sirloin. |
| New York Strip (Thick Cut) | 420 | 57g | 22g | Higher fat content due to marbling. |
Conclusion
Determining how many calories are in an 8 oz steak from Texas Roadhouse requires knowing the specific cut, as calorie counts range from 340 for the sirloin to 420 for the New York strip. Beyond the steak itself, controlling your portion of accompanying sides, sauces, and toppings is crucial for managing your total calorie intake and maintaining your nutrition diet. By making mindful choices, you can enjoy a delicious steakhouse experience while staying on track with your health and wellness goals.
For more comprehensive nutritional information on the Texas Roadhouse menu, including their nutrition calculator, you can visit the official Nutritionix Texas Roadhouse page.
