Navigating a restaurant menu with a gluten allergy or sensitivity can be challenging, but many popular chains, including Texas Roadhouse, offer options for diners. For anyone wondering what sides at Texas Roadhouse are gluten-free, the good news is that several delicious choices are available, provided you communicate your needs clearly to the staff. This guide breaks down the safest side dishes and offers tips for ordering a worry-free meal.
The Safest Gluten-Free Sides at Texas Roadhouse
Texas Roadhouse provides a 'gluten-friendly' guide, but it's important to remember this is not a dedicated gluten-free facility, so cross-contamination is a risk. However, by being specific when you order, you can significantly reduce this risk.
- Baked Potato: A classic and naturally gluten-free option. Ensure you ask for it without any special seasonings, toppings, or the restaurant's famous honey-cinnamon butter, which is not gluten-free.
- Sweet Potato: Another excellent, naturally gluten-free choice. Like the baked potato, request it without the honey-cinnamon butter and any other toppings.
- Fresh Vegetables: Typically, this means steamed broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower. Ask that they be prepared plain with just salt and pepper and no grill seasoning, which may contain gluten.
- Green Beans: The green beans at Texas Roadhouse are a popular and naturally gluten-free side option. They are cooked simply and are a safe bet.
- Corn: Another simple, single-ingredient side that is naturally gluten-free.
- Applesauce: A straightforward and safe gluten-free fruit side.
- Mashed Potatoes (No Gravy): The mashed potatoes themselves are generally safe, but the gravy contains gluten. You must order them explicitly with no gravy.
- House Salad (No Croutons, Oil & Vinegar only): The house salad can be a great starter, but it's crucial to order it without croutons. For the dressing, stick to a simple oil and vinegar to avoid hidden gluten in other dressings.
Comparison of Gluten-Free Sides
| Side Dish | Naturally Gluten-Free? | Special Ordering Instructions | Cross-Contamination Risk | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baked Potato | Yes | Order plain, without honey-cinnamon butter. | Low | A hearty, filling classic. |
| Sweet Potato | Yes | Order plain, without honey-cinnamon butter. | Low | Those seeking a sweeter alternative. |
| Mashed Potatoes | Yes (No Gravy) | Must specify 'no gravy.' | Low (unless gravy is near) | A comforting, savory side. |
| Green Beans | Yes | Minimal seasoning needed. | Low | A reliable vegetable choice. |
| Fresh Vegetables | Yes | Specify 'plain, salt, and pepper only.' | Moderate (grill seasoning) | A healthy and fresh option. |
| Corn | Yes | No special instructions needed. | Low | Simple, sweet, and classic. |
| Applesauce | Yes | No special instructions needed. | Low | A simple, sweet palate cleanser. |
| House Salad | Yes (Modified) | Request no croutons, use oil & vinegar dressing. | Moderate (crouton handling) | A light and customizable starter. |
How to Order to Minimize Cross-Contamination
While Texas Roadhouse is transparent about its 'gluten-friendly' approach rather than a strict 'gluten-free' one, there are proactive steps you can take to make your meal safer.
- Inform your server: When ordering, state that you have a gluten allergy or celiac disease. This alerts the kitchen staff to take extra precautions.
- Request specific cooking methods: For grilled items, ask that they be cooked on a fresh sheet of foil and seasoned only with salt and pepper to avoid contact with marinades or seasonings containing gluten.
- Specify plain preparation: For baked potatoes and other sides, emphasize 'no honey-cinnamon butter' and 'no gravy' to prevent standard procedure toppings from being added.
- Confirm ingredients: If you have any doubt about a side, ask your server to confirm the ingredients. Menu items and recipes can change.
Sides to Strictly Avoid
In addition to confirming your order, it's equally important to know which sides are off-limits due to their ingredients or preparation method.
- Seasoned Rice: Despite seeming harmless, this side is not gluten-free.
- Steak Fries: These are fried in shared oil with items like breaded boneless wings, leading to a high risk of cross-contamination.
- Mashed Potato Gravy: The brown and cream gravies served with the mashed potatoes contain gluten and should be avoided.
Conclusion
Texas Roadhouse offers several inherently gluten-free sides that, with careful ordering, can be a safe part of a gluten-free meal. Baked potatoes, sweet potatoes, green beans, corn, and applesauce are all excellent options, while mashed potatoes are safe when ordered without gravy. The house salad is also a viable choice if ordered without croutons and with a safe dressing like oil and vinegar. For those with celiac disease or severe sensitivities, communicating clearly with your server about your allergy is the most important step to minimizing the risk of cross-contamination. By knowing the best options and being proactive, you can enjoy a satisfying meal at Texas Roadhouse while sticking to your dietary needs.
Visit the official Texas Roadhouse website for their latest gluten-friendly menu suggestions.
