Steak ‘n Shake, known for its classic burgers and milkshakes, also offers healthier menu options for the calorie-conscious diner. While indulgent items dominate the menu, several lighter choices provide satisfying meals without excessive calories, fat, or sodium.
For a nutritious breakfast at Steak ‘n Shake, opt for two Potato ‘n Egg breakfast tacos with fresh salsa and a side of applesauce. This combo delivers a fraction of the calories, fat, and salt compared to heavier options like biscuit sandwiches. Those following specific diets can find suitable choices, with gluten-free, low-carb, and vegetarian items available.
Lunch and dinner visitors can select from lighter sandwiches, salads, or grilled chicken options. By being selective and avoiding fried foods and milkshakes, diners can enjoy a meal at Steak ‘n Shake while maintaining their health goals. The key is to focus on grilled proteins, vegetables, and smaller portion sizes when available.
Understanding Steak ‘n Shake’s Menu
Steak ‘n Shake offers a diverse menu centered around their signature steakburgers and milkshakes. The restaurant provides nutritional information to help customers make informed choices.
Categories of Menu Items
Steak ‘n Shake’s menu features several distinct categories. Steakburgers form the core of their offerings, with various toppings and sizes available. Milkshakes come in classic and specialty flavors, often topped with whipped cream.
The menu also includes sandwiches, ranging from club-style to grilled options. For lighter fare, salads are available with different protein choices. Side dishes feature French fries, onion rings, and apple slices.
Breakfast items like egg sandwiches and pancakes round out the menu. Dessert options go beyond shakes to include sundaes and cookies.
Nutritional Information Transparency
Steak ‘n Shake provides detailed nutritional facts for their menu items. Calorie counts are readily available, helping customers track their intake. Information on protein, fat, carbohydrates, and sodium is also accessible.
The restaurant highlights some healthier options on their menu. These choices typically have lower calorie and fat content. Customization options allow for further calorie reduction, such as removing mayonnaise or cheese.
Some menu items can be high in calories, sodium, and saturated fat. The restaurant suggests balancing these choices with lighter meals throughout the day. Portion control, like opting for half-orders, can help manage calorie intake while still enjoying favorite items.
Evaluating Healthier Options
Steak ‘n Shake offers some lower-calorie and more nutritious choices for health-conscious diners. Careful selection and customization can help create balanced meals with lean protein and fiber.
Identifying Lower Calorie Choices
The Egg ‘n Cheese Biscuit and Sausage ‘n Egg Biscuit are high in calories and sodium. Instead, two Potato ‘n Egg breakfast tacos with salsa provide fewer calories and less fat. A side of applesauce adds nutrition without excess calories.
For lunch or dinner, the Turkey Club is a leaner option when ordered without mayo and eaten as a half portion. This provides around 200-250 calories and 15g of protein.
Salads can be nutritious choices when topped with grilled chicken and light dressing. Skipping high-calorie toppings like croutons or fried onions further reduces calories.
Assessing Macronutrient Balance
Balancing protein, carbs, and fats is key for a nutritious meal at Steak ‘n Shake. Lean protein sources include grilled chicken, turkey, and egg whites. Whole grain buns add fiber and nutrients.
Side salads offer vitamins and fiber to complement protein-rich entrees. Fruit cups provide natural sugars and nutrients as an alternative to fries.
Customizing shakes with skim milk and sugar-free syrups can reduce calories and sugar while still providing calcium and protein. Splitting a shake or opting for a small size helps control portions.
Considering Special Diets
For low-carb or keto diets, bunless burgers with side salads are good options. Grilled chicken or steak can be added to salads for extra protein.
Gluten-free diners can choose salads without croutons or grilled items without buns. Vegetarians have limited choices but can opt for salads, sides, and meat-free breakfast items.
Those watching sodium intake should be cautious, as many menu items are high in salt. Asking for no added salt and choosing fresh ingredients can help reduce sodium consumption.
Nutritional information is available online and in restaurants to help diners make informed choices based on their dietary needs and preferences.
Healthy Meal Options
Steak ‘n Shake offers several nutritious choices for health-conscious diners. These options include fresh salads, grilled protein selections, and low-carb alternatives to traditional menu items.
Salad Selections
The salad menu at Steak ‘n Shake provides lighter fare with a variety of flavors. The Garden Fresh Salad serves as a base, featuring crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. For added protein, the Grilled Chicken Salad tops the greens with a lean chicken breast.
The Apple Pecan Grilled Chicken Salad elevates the standard offering with sweet apple slices and crunchy pecans. This option balances taste and nutrition effectively.
For those seeking a Tex-Mex twist, the Grilled Chicken Taco Salad combines seasoned chicken with fresh vegetables in a crispy tortilla bowl. To keep calories in check, request dressing on the side.
A Small Garden Salad or Side Salad can complement a main dish without adding excessive calories.
Grilled Selections
Grilled options provide a healthier alternative to fried foods. The Grilled Chicken Sandwich stands out as a lean protein choice. It features a juicy chicken breast on a bun with lettuce and tomato.
The Single Steakburger can be a reasonable option when paired with a side salad instead of fries. Request toppings like mustard or vegetables to add flavor without excess calories.
For a lighter meal, consider the Vegetable Soup. It offers a warming, low-calorie option packed with nutrients from various vegetables.
Bunless and Low-Carb Alternatives
For those following low-carb diets, Steak ‘n Shake accommodates with bunless options. Any burger can be served without the bun, significantly reducing carbohydrate intake.
A Bunless Burger wrapped in lettuce provides a satisfying meal while cutting down on bread calories. This option works well for keto or low-carb dieters.
Pair a bunless burger with a side salad for a balanced, low-carb meal. This combination offers protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich vegetables.
Remember to skip high-calorie toppings and opt for mustard or hot sauce to keep the meal light.
Navigating Sides, Drinks, and Desserts
Steak ‘n Shake offers a variety of sides, beverages, and desserts to complement their main dishes. Making informed choices can help maintain a balanced meal while still enjoying the restaurant’s offerings.
Sides with Benefits
Steak ‘n Shake provides several healthier side options. Applesauce is a low-calorie choice rich in fiber and vitamins. Cottage cheese offers protein and calcium with fewer calories than many other sides.
For those seeking vegetables, the side salad is a nutritious option. Choose oil and vinegar or lemon juice as dressing to keep it light. Baked beans provide fiber and protein, but watch portion sizes due to sugar content.
Hash browns and french fries are popular but higher in calories and fat. If selecting these, consider sharing or opting for a smaller portion. Onion rings, while tasty, are also calorie-dense.
Healthy Beverage Choices
Water is always the healthiest beverage choice. It’s calorie-free and helps with hydration. Unsweetened iced tea is another low-calorie option that provides antioxidants.
For those who enjoy carbonation, diet sodas offer a zero-calorie alternative to regular sodas. However, moderation is key due to artificial sweeteners.
Coffee and tea without added sugar or cream can be good choices. They provide caffeine and potential health benefits without extra calories.
Desserts and Moderation
Steak ‘n Shake is known for its shakes, which can be high in calories and sugar. To enjoy desserts mindfully, consider splitting a shake with a friend or opting for a small size.
Some lower-calorie dessert options include:
- Fresh fruit (if available)
- Small serving of ice cream
- Kid-sized shakes
When indulging in desserts, balance it with healthier choices in your main meal. Remember, occasional treats can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
Specialty Items and Customizations
Steak ‘n Shake offers several options for diners with specific dietary needs or preferences. The restaurant provides vegetarian choices and allows customization of many menu items to accommodate various restrictions.
Vegetarian and Vegan Delights
Steak ‘n Shake’s veggie melt is a popular choice for vegetarians. This sandwich features grilled vegetables on toasted bread with melted cheese. For vegans, the grilled cheese sandwich can be modified by omitting the cheese and adding extra vegetables.
The restaurant also offers side salads that can be customized to suit plant-based diets. Diners can request to remove cheese or croutons and add extra vegetables. Some locations may offer veggie patties as a meat substitute for burgers upon request.
Customizing for Dietary Restrictions
Steak ‘n Shake accommodates various dietary needs through customization. For low-carb or keto diets, guests can order a grilled chicken breast or burger patty without the bun. These can be served with a side salad instead of fries.
Diners can request sauces and dressings on the side to control calorie intake. Low-sodium options are available by asking for no added salt on grilled items. For gluten-sensitive customers, many menu items can be modified to exclude bread or battered components.
The restaurant offers sugar-free syrups for shakes and drinks, catering to those watching their sugar intake. Guests with specific allergies should inform staff to ensure proper meal preparation.
Breakfast and All-Day Options
Steak ‘n Shake offers a variety of breakfast items and all-day options that can be part of a balanced diet. With some smart choices, diners can find nutritious meals to start their day or enjoy any time.
Starting the Day Right
The breakfast menu at Steak ‘n Shake includes several options for health-conscious diners. Potato ‘n Egg breakfast tacos are a lighter choice, providing protein and carbohydrates without excessive calories or fat. These tacos come with fresh salsa, adding flavor and nutrients.
For those watching their sodium intake, the yogurt parfait is a sensible option. It offers a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and probiotics. Egg-based dishes like the Cheddar Scrambler can be a good source of protein, but it’s wise to be mindful of added cheese and sides.
To keep breakfast lighter, consider:
- Choosing fruit sides over hash browns
- Opting for whole wheat toast when available
- Limiting high-sodium items like sausage
All-Day Nutritious Choices
Steak ‘n Shake’s all-day menu features several items that can fit into a balanced diet. The Classic Melts category includes options like the Patty Melt, which can be modified for a healthier profile. Requesting a single patty and extra vegetables can reduce calories while maintaining flavor.
Grilled cheese is a popular choice that can be made more nutritious:
- Ask for whole wheat bread if available
- Add tomato slices for extra vitamins
- Limit added bacon or other high-fat toppings
For those seeking lighter fare, consider:
- Ordering a side salad with dressing on the side
- Choosing grilled chicken over fried options
- Splitting a larger sandwich with a dining partner
Comprehensive Meal Planning
Planning a nutritious meal at Steak ‘n Shake requires careful consideration of menu options and portion sizes. By making informed choices, diners can enjoy a satisfying meal while maintaining a balanced diet.
Building a Balanced Steak ‘n Shake Meal
A well-balanced meal at Steak ‘n Shake starts with selecting a protein-rich main course. The Single Steakburger is a sensible choice, providing a moderate calorie count and essential nutrients. For a leaner option, the Grilled Chicken Breast sandwich offers high-quality protein without excessive fat.
Sides play a crucial role in meal planning. Instead of fries, diners can opt for the Garden Fresh Salad with light Italian dressing. This substitution adds fiber and vitamins while reducing overall calorie intake.
Beverage choices impact the meal’s nutritional profile. Unsweetened iced tea or water are preferable to sugary sodas or milkshakes. For those craving a treat, a small serving of a hand-dipped shake can be incorporated occasionally as part of a balanced diet.
Customization is key to healthier eating at Steak ‘n Shake. Requesting toppings like red onion or guacamole on burgers adds flavor and nutrients. Removing high-calorie condiments such as mayo or cheese can significantly reduce fat content.