Outback Steakhouse is a popular Australian-themed restaurant chain known for its high-quality steaks, seafood, and pasta dishes. While it’s easy to get caught up in the indulgent atmosphere and rich flavors, many of us are looking for healthier options when dining out. In this article, we’ll explore the healthiest things to order at Outback, as well as some tips for making your meal even healthier.
Understanding Outback’s Menu
Before we dive into the healthiest options, it’s essential to understand the types of dishes offered at Outback. The menu is divided into several sections, including steaks, seafood, pasta, salads, and sides. While there are some obvious unhealthy options, such as the Bloomin’ Onion and the Aussie Cheese Fries, there are also some surprisingly healthy choices.
Steaks: A Healthy Option?
Steaks are a staple at Outback, and while they can be high in calories and fat, some options are healthier than others. Look for leaner cuts of meat, such as the 6 oz. Sirloin or the 6 oz. Grilled Chicken Breast. These options are lower in calories and fat compared to the larger steaks.
| Steak Option | Calories | Fat (g) |
| — | — | — |
| 6 oz. Sirloin | 340 | 12 |
| 6 oz. Grilled Chicken Breast | 320 | 8 |
Healthiest Entrees at Outback
Now that we’ve explored the steak options, let’s take a look at some of the healthiest entrees at Outback.
Grilled Chicken Breast with Roasted Vegetables
This dish is a great option for those looking for a lean protein source and plenty of fiber-rich vegetables. The grilled chicken breast is served with a variety of roasted vegetables, including asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini.
Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter
Salmon is a fatty fish that’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it an excellent choice for heart health. The grilled salmon at Outback is served with a light lemon butter sauce that adds flavor without adding too many calories.
Vegetarian Options
While Outback is known for its steaks, there are also some delicious vegetarian options available. The Grilled Portobello Mushroom is a great choice, served with a side of roasted vegetables and a light sauce.
Healthiest Sides at Outback
While the entrees at Outback can be healthy, the sides can often be a source of excess calories and fat. Here are some of the healthiest side options:
Aussie Fries (Baked, Not Fried)
While the Aussie Fries are typically fried, you can ask for them to be baked instead. This will save you around 200 calories and 10g of fat.
Roasted Vegetables
The roasted vegetables at Outback are a great side option, with a variety of choices including asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini.
Healthiest Salads at Outback
Salads can be a great option at Outback, but be careful of the toppings and dressings. Here are some of the healthiest salad options:
House Salad with Grilled Chicken
The house salad at Outback is a simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. Adding grilled chicken breast makes it a satisfying and healthy option.
Blue Cheese Pecan Chopped Salad (Without Blue Cheese Crumbles)
This salad is a great option, with a mix of greens, pecans, and dried cranberries. Ask for it without the blue cheese crumbles to save around 100 calories and 10g of fat.
Tips for Making Your Meal Healthier
While the options above are some of the healthiest at Outback, there are still ways to make your meal even healthier. Here are some tips:
Choose Leaner Proteins
Opt for leaner proteins like grilled chicken breast, sirloin, or salmon. These options are lower in calories and fat compared to the larger steaks.
Load Up on Vegetables
Vegetables are a great way to add fiber and nutrients to your meal. Choose roasted or grilled vegetables as a side, and add them to your salad or entree.
Go Easy on the Sauces and Dressings
Sauces and dressings can add a lot of calories and fat to your meal. Opt for light sauces and dressings, and ask for them on the side so you can control the amount you use.
Avoid Fried Foods
Fried foods like the Bloomin’ Onion and Aussie Fries are high in calories and fat. Opt for baked or grilled options instead.
Conclusion
While Outback Steakhouse is known for its indulgent atmosphere and rich flavors, there are still plenty of healthy options to choose from. By opting for leaner proteins, loading up on vegetables, and going easy on the sauces and dressings, you can make your meal healthier and more satisfying. Whether you’re in the mood for a grilled steak, a fresh salad, or a hearty vegetarian dish, Outback has something for everyone.
What are the healthiest protein options at Outback?
The healthiest protein options at Outback include the Grilled Chicken Breast, Grilled Salmon, and Grilled Shrimp. These options are lower in calories, fat, and sodium compared to other protein options on the menu. The Grilled Chicken Breast is a lean protein source that is rich in nutrients like niacin, vitamin B6, and selenium.
When ordering these protein options, be mindful of the portion sizes and cooking methods. Opt for grilled or baked options instead of fried, and choose smaller portions to keep calorie intake in check. Additionally, pair these protein options with healthier sides like steamed vegetables or a side salad to create a well-rounded meal.
Can I customize my meal at Outback to make it healthier?
Yes, you can customize your meal at Outback to make it healthier. One way to do this is to ask for modifications to your order, such as holding the cheese or sauce, or swapping out fries for a side salad. You can also ask for your protein to be grilled or baked instead of fried.
Another way to customize your meal is to choose from the “Light” menu options, which are designed to be lower in calories and fat. These options include smaller portions of popular dishes, such as the Grilled Chicken Breast and the Sirloin. Additionally, you can ask for a side of steamed vegetables or a side salad to add some extra nutrients to your meal.
What are the healthiest side options at Outback?
The healthiest side options at Outback include the Steamed Broccoli, Steamed Asparagus, and Side Salad with Light Balsamic Vinaigrette. These options are low in calories, fat, and sodium, and are rich in nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
When ordering sides, be mindful of portion sizes and ingredients. Opt for steamed or roasted options instead of fried, and choose smaller portions to keep calorie intake in check. Additionally, ask for light dressings or sauces to reduce added calories and sugar.
Are there any healthy dessert options at Outback?
While desserts are typically high in calories and sugar, there are some healthier options at Outback. The Fresh Fruit Plate is a light and refreshing option that is low in calories and rich in nutrients like vitamins and antioxidants.
Another option is the Chocolate Fondue, which can be a healthier choice if you opt for fresh fruit instead of cake or cookies. Be mindful of portion sizes and ingredients, and choose smaller portions to keep calorie intake in check. Additionally, ask for light whipped cream or no whipped cream at all to reduce added calories and sugar.
Can I eat gluten-free at Outback?
Yes, Outback offers several gluten-free options, including the Grilled Chicken Breast, Grilled Salmon, and Grilled Shrimp. They also offer a Gluten-Free Menu, which includes options like the Gluten-Free Burger and the Gluten-Free Salad.
When ordering gluten-free, be sure to inform your server of your dietary needs. They can help guide you through the menu and ensure that your meal is prepared safely to avoid cross-contamination. Additionally, ask for gluten-free sauces and seasonings to reduce the risk of gluten exposure.
Are there any healthy drink options at Outback?
Yes, there are several healthy drink options at Outback, including water, unsweetened tea, and black coffee. They also offer a selection of low-calorie beers and wines for those who want to indulge.
When ordering drinks, be mindful of added sugars and calories. Opt for unsweetened tea or black coffee instead of sugary drinks like soda or sweet tea. Additionally, choose low-calorie beers and wines to reduce calorie intake. Avoid drinks with high-fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners, which can be detrimental to overall health.
How can I make my meal at Outback more nutritious?
To make your meal at Outback more nutritious, focus on choosing lean protein sources, plenty of vegetables, and whole grains. Opt for grilled or baked options instead of fried, and choose smaller portions to keep calorie intake in check.
Additionally, ask for modifications to your order, such as holding the cheese or sauce, or swapping out fries for a side salad. Choose light dressings or sauces to reduce added calories and sugar, and opt for steamed or roasted options instead of fried. By making a few simple changes, you can create a healthier and more nutritious meal at Outback.