Outback Steakhouse offers several healthier menu options for diners looking to watch their calorie intake or make nutritious choices. The restaurant provides a dedicated under-600-calorie menu featuring lean proteins and vegetable sides. Some of the best choices include the 6 oz Victoria’s Filet Mignon, grilled shrimp, and wood-fire grilled seafood options.
Choosing lean cuts of meat and opting for grilled or roasted preparations can help keep meals lighter. Pairing proteins with vegetable sides like steamed broccoli or a plain sweet potato creates balanced, nutritious meals. Portion control is also key – selecting 6 oz steaks rather than larger cuts helps moderate calorie counts.
While Outback does offer some healthier selections, diners should still be mindful of high-calorie items. Certain vegetable dishes like the Over-the-Top Brussels Sprouts can pack in excess fat and calories due to added bacon and sauces. Reviewing nutrition information ahead of time can guide smarter ordering decisions at this popular steakhouse chain.
Overview of Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse is an American casual dining chain with an Australian theme. It offers a diverse menu centered around steaks and other grilled meats, while also providing options for health-conscious diners.
Brand Philosophy
Outback Steakhouse embraces a casual, laid-back atmosphere inspired by Australian culture. The restaurant chain focuses on providing high-quality steaks and a welcoming dining experience. Their slogan “No Rules, Just Right” reflects their commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility in menu options.
Outback’s philosophy extends to offering generous portion sizes and bold flavors. The brand emphasizes using fresh ingredients and made-from-scratch recipes. This approach has helped Outback build a loyal customer base since its founding in 1988.
Menu Diversity
Outback Steakhouse’s menu goes beyond just steaks. It features a wide array of dishes to cater to different tastes and dietary needs. The menu includes:
- Signature steaks (e.g. Outback Special, Victoria’s Filet Mignon)
- Seafood options (Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie, salmon)
- Chicken dishes
- Burgers and sandwiches
- Salads and soups
- Vegetable sides
For health-conscious diners, Outback offers grilled options and leaner cuts of meat. The restaurant also provides customization options, allowing guests to modify dishes to suit their preferences or dietary restrictions.
Defining Healthy Dining Options
Healthy dining options at Outback Steakhouse focus on balanced nutrition and mindful ingredient choices. These selections aim to provide satisfying meals while supporting overall well-being.
Nutritional Guidelines
Healthy menu items at Outback typically contain lean proteins, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates. Lean cuts of meat like sirloin steak or grilled chicken breast offer high-quality protein with less saturated fat. Seafood options such as grilled shrimp or seared ahi tuna provide omega-3 fatty acids.
Side dishes play a crucial role in creating a balanced meal. Steamed vegetables or side salads add fiber and essential nutrients. Sweet potatoes offer a nutritious alternative to regular fries, providing vitamins and minerals.
Portion control is key. Choosing smaller steak cuts or sharing larger entrees helps manage calorie intake. Opting for appetizer-sized portions as a main course can also be an effective strategy.
Ingredients to Avoid
When seeking healthier options, it’s important to limit certain ingredients. Deep-fried items like the Bloomin’ Onion are high in calories and saturated fat. Creamy sauces and dressings often add unnecessary calories and sodium.
Excessive cheese toppings and butter-based additions should be minimized. These can significantly increase the fat content of a meal. Highly processed sides, such as mac and cheese bites, are best avoided.
Sugary cocktails and sodas can add empty calories. Opting for water, unsweetened tea, or light beer can reduce overall calorie intake. Desserts are typically high in sugar and fat, so they should be enjoyed in moderation or shared.
Healthy Appetizer Choices
Outback Steakhouse offers several lighter appetizer options for health-conscious diners. The Seared Peppered Ahi stands out as a nutritious choice. This appetizer features tuna rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fats, benefiting heart, brain, and eye health.
With 440 calories, 24 grams of fat, and 29 grams of protein, the Seared Peppered Ahi provides a balanced start to a meal. It can be shared or enjoyed as a light main course with a nutritious side.
For those seeking lower-calorie options, grilled shrimp makes an excellent pick. Wood-fire grilled shrimp topped with BBQ sauce offers flavor without excessive calories. Pairing it with a plain sweet potato creates a satisfying, nutrient-dense combination.
When selecting appetizers, opt for items that are grilled, seared, or baked rather than fried. These cooking methods typically result in lower calorie and fat content. Seafood-based starters often provide lean protein and beneficial nutrients.
Sharing appetizers can help control portion sizes and reduce overall calorie intake. Consider splitting a healthier option with dining companions to sample flavors without overindulging before the main course.
Salads and Soups
Outback Steakhouse offers several nutritious salad and soup options for health-conscious diners. These lighter choices provide a balance of vegetables, proteins, and flavors while keeping calories in check.
Dressing Selection
Choosing the right dressing can make or break a salad’s nutritional value. Outback provides low-calorie options like tangy tomato dressing, which adds flavor without excessive calories. Oil-based vinaigrettes are generally healthier choices compared to creamy dressings.
When ordering, request dressing on the side to control portions. A tablespoon or two is often sufficient to enhance taste without overwhelming the salad’s natural flavors. Light dressings and vinaigrettes typically range from 15-50 calories per tablespoon.
Lean Proteins and Toppings
Adding lean proteins to salads increases satiety and nutritional value. Grilled chicken breast is a popular low-fat option, providing around 25 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving. Salmon offers heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
For vegetarian options, consider adding extra vegetables or a small portion of nuts for protein and healthy fats. Avoid high-calorie toppings like fried onions, croutons, or excessive cheese. Instead, opt for fresh vegetables, a sprinkle of seeds, or a small amount of avocado for healthy fats.
Soups can be filling starters. Broccoli cheddar soup is a lighter choice at 320 calories per bowl. The creamy onion soup contains 420 calories per bowl, making it a moderate option when paired with a small salad or protein-based main course.
Entree Recommendations
Selecting healthier entrees at Outback Steakhouse involves choosing leaner proteins, appropriate portion sizes, and nutritious sides. These choices can help balance taste and nutrition while dining out.
Steak Portion Sizes
Outback offers various steak cuts and sizes. For a healthier option, consider the 6 oz. Center-Cut Sirloin. This lean cut provides protein without excessive calories.
The 7 oz. Victoria’s Filet Mignon is another good choice, being a tender, less fatty cut.
For those watching portion sizes, the 5 oz. Petite Sirloin offers a satisfying meal with fewer calories.
Avoid larger cuts like the 18 oz. Bone-In Ribeye, which can contain more fat and calories.
Alternative Proteins
Grilled seafood options provide lean protein alternatives. The Perfectly Grilled Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and lower in saturated fat compared to some red meat options.
Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie is a low-calorie choice, offering protein without added sauces or breading.
For poultry lovers, the Grilled Chicken on the Barbie is a lean option. Request it without added butter or oil for a healthier meal.
Avoid fried options like the Chicken Tenders, which add unnecessary calories and fat.
Sides and Accompaniments
Choose steamed vegetables as a side dish. Broccoli, asparagus, or mixed veggies provide nutrients without added fats.
A plain baked potato is a healthier alternative to fries. Skip the butter and sour cream, or ask for them on the side.
The fresh seasonal mixed veggies offer variety and nutrition. Request them prepared without added butter.
Avoid high-calorie sides like the Loaded Mashed Potatoes or Aussie Cheese Fries.
For salads, choose the House Salad with a light dressing on the side. This adds vitamins and fiber to your meal without excessive calories.
Beverage Options
Outback Steakhouse offers a variety of beverages to complement meals, ranging from non-alcoholic options to alcoholic drinks. Choosing wisely can help maintain a balanced diet while dining out.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Water remains the healthiest choice at Outback, with zero calories and no added sugars. For those seeking flavor, unsweetened iced tea is a good alternative. Outback also offers diet sodas, which contain no calories but use artificial sweeteners.
Fresh-squeezed lemonade is available but contains added sugars. To reduce calorie intake, ask for it mixed with water or unsweetened iced tea. Coffee and hot tea are calorie-free options when consumed black.
For a fruity option, try the No-Worries Sangria Mocktail. While not calorie-free, it’s a lower-sugar alternative to traditional cocktails.
Alcohol Guidelines
When considering alcoholic beverages at Outback, moderation is key. Light beers typically contain fewer calories than regular beers. A 12-ounce light beer averages around 100 calories.
Wine can be a reasonable choice, with a 5-ounce glass of red or white wine containing about 120-130 calories. Opt for dry wines over sweet varieties to reduce sugar intake.
Cocktails often contain high amounts of sugar and calories. If ordering a mixed drink, request it with diet soda or soda water to reduce calorie content. Avoid creamy cocktails or those with added syrups.
Limit alcohol consumption to one drink for women and two for men per day to align with dietary guidelines.
Desserts and Portion Control
Outback Steakhouse offers several tempting dessert options. While indulging occasionally is fine, moderation is key for maintaining a healthy diet.
The Thunder & Lightning dessert contains 1920 calories, making it a high-calorie choice. Sharing this dessert with others can help control portions.
For a lighter option, consider the vanilla bean cheesecake. It has fewer calories, fat, carbs, and sugar compared to other desserts on the menu.
Portion control strategies at Outback:
- Split desserts with dining companions
- Order mini versions when available
- Ask for fruit as a side instead of ice cream
- Take half home for later
Remember that desserts are treats, not everyday foods. Enjoying smaller portions allows you to satisfy cravings without overindulging.
When selecting desserts, look for options with fruit or nuts for added nutritional value. Be mindful of added sugars and saturated fats in creamy or chocolate-based choices.
Customizing Your Order
Outback Steakhouse offers flexibility to tailor meals to individual preferences and dietary needs. Guests can make special requests and substitutions to create healthier dishes.
Special Requests
Diners can ask for grilled items instead of fried options. This simple change reduces calorie and fat content significantly. Requesting sauces and dressings on the side allows control over portions.
Guests may ask for dishes to be prepared with less salt or oil. The kitchen can accommodate requests for no butter or lighter seasoning. Vegetarian and gluten-free modifications are often possible with advance notice.
For those watching portion sizes, half-portions of entrees may be available upon request. Sharing a meal is another option to reduce calorie intake.
Substitutions
Outback allows swapping sides to create more nutritious meals. Steamed vegetables or a side salad can replace higher-calorie options like fries or loaded potatoes.
Whole grain bread can be substituted for white bread. Brown rice is a healthier alternative to white rice when available.
Lean proteins like grilled chicken or fish can replace fattier meats in many dishes. Egg whites may be used instead of whole eggs in certain menu items.
Low-fat dressings and sauces can often be substituted for cream-based options. Sugar-free syrups are available for beverages and desserts upon request.
Allergen Information and Dietary Restrictions
Outback Steakhouse caters to guests with various dietary needs and restrictions. The restaurant offers an allergen menu to help diners make informed choices about their meals.
For those with gluten sensitivities, Outback provides a range of gluten-free options. These include salads, steaks, and even desserts, allowing guests to enjoy a full dining experience.
Dairy-free diners also have several choices at Outback. While the restaurant doesn’t have a specific dairy-free menu, staff members are trained to assist guests in selecting suitable options.
Outback accommodates other common allergens as well. Guests with nut allergies, soy sensitivities, or seafood allergies can find appropriate dishes on the menu.
Vegetarian and vegan diners aren’t left out. Outback offers plant-based options to cater to these dietary preferences.
It’s important for guests with allergies or dietary restrictions to communicate their needs to the server. The staff can provide detailed information about ingredients and preparation methods to ensure a safe dining experience.
Outback’s commitment to allergen awareness extends to their food preparation practices. The restaurant takes precautions to minimize cross-contamination risks in the kitchen.