Longhorn Steakhouse is a popular destination for steak lovers, offering a wide array of hearty dishes. While their menu is packed with delicious options, not all of them are kind to your waistline or overall health. If you’re watching your calorie intake or trying to eat healthier, here are the 9 unhealthiest menu items you might want to avoid (or enjoy sparingly).
1. Outlaw Ribeye
The Outlaw Ribeye is a 20 oz. bone-in ribeye that’s incredibly flavorful but also packed with calories and saturated fat. Clocking in at over 1,500 calories and a significant amount of saturated fat, it’s a heavy choice that can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed frequently.
2. LongHorn® Chili Cheese Fries
This appetizer is a plateful of fries smothered in chili and cheese. While it’s a tasty start to your meal, it comes with a hefty calorie count and is loaded with unhealthy fats and sodium, making it a poor choice for those watching their diet.
3. Cowboy Pork Chops
The Cowboy Pork Chops are another indulgent option that comes with a high calorie and fat content. Although pork can be part of a healthy diet, this dish is prepared in a way that adds a lot of extra calories, making it one of the unhealthiest choices on the menu.
4. Fire-Grilled T-Bone
The Fire-Grilled T-Bone is another high-calorie steak option. While it’s a delicious cut of meat, the portion size and preparation method add up to a meal that’s high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium, which can be problematic for heart health.
5. Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This dish might sound healthier because it’s chicken, but the parmesan crust adds a significant amount of calories and fat. It’s also typically served with sides that can further increase the meal’s calorie and fat content.
6. LongHorn® Loaded Potato Soup
Soups can be deceivingly unhealthy, and the Loaded Potato Soup at Longhorn is no exception. It’s rich and creamy, which means it’s high in calories and saturated fat. Enjoying it occasionally is fine, but it’s not the best choice for a regular meal.
7. Baby Back Ribs
The Baby Back Ribs are another delicious but unhealthy option. Ribs are naturally high in fat, and when combined with sugary barbecue sauce, the calorie and sugar content skyrocket, making this a dish to enjoy in moderation.
8. Chocolate Stampede
No meal is complete without dessert, but the Chocolate Stampede is a calorie bomb. This dessert features a mountain of chocolate cake and ice cream, totaling over 2,000 calories. It’s a decadent treat, best shared with others if you decide to indulge.
9. Spicy Chicken Bites
These might sound like a lighter appetizer, but the Spicy Chicken Bites are deep-fried and covered in a spicy sauce, making them high in calories and unhealthy fats. They’re tasty but not the best choice for a health-conscious diner.
Tips for Healthier Dining at Longhorn Steakhouse
- Choose Leaner Cuts of Meat: Opt for cuts like sirloin or filet mignon, which are lower in fat compared to ribeye or T-bone.
- Skip the Appetizers: Many appetizers are deep-fried and high in calories. Instead, start with a side salad or vegetable-based starter.
- Watch Your Portions: Consider sharing entrees or saving half for later to avoid overeating.
- Select Healthier Sides: Choose steamed vegetables or a side salad instead of fries or creamy mashed potatoes.
- Limit Desserts: If you have a sweet tooth, share a dessert or opt for fresh fruit if available.
While Longhorn Steakhouse offers many indulgent and tasty dishes, being mindful of what you order can help you enjoy your meal without compromising your health goals. Make smart choices and enjoy your dining experience!
