Milly Gaines
Longhorn Steakhouse offers several options that can be tailored to fit a keto diet, focusing on low-carb, high-fat meals. While the menu is primarily steak-centric, which naturally aligns with keto principles, diners can customize their orders to minimize carbohydrates. For instance, opting for a grilled steak or chicken without breading, paired with non-starchy sides like steamed broccoli, asparagus, or a house salad without croutons and sugary dressings, can keep the meal keto-friendly. Additionally, butter or olive oil can be requested to increase fat intake, and skipping high-carb items like mashed potatoes, fries, or bread baskets is essential. With mindful choices, Longhorn Steakhouse can be a convenient and satisfying dining option for those following a ketogenic lifestyle.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Steak Options | Ribeye, Filet Mignon, New York Strip (unbreaded, no sauce) |
| Protein Choices | Grilled Chicken, Salmon, Shrimp (avoid breading/sweet sauces) |
| Side Dishes | Steamed Broccoli, Green Beans, Caesar Salad (no croutons), Asparagus |
| Sauces/Dressings | Butter, Olive Oil, Blue Cheese Dressing (in moderation), Ranch (sugar-free) |
| Appetizers | Grilled Wings (no breading), Deviled Eggs (if available) |
| Beverages | Water, Unsweetened Iced Tea, Diet Soda, Coffee (no sugar) |
| Avoid | Bread, Fries, Mashed Potatoes, Sweet Sauces, Desserts |
| Customization Tips | Request double vegetables instead of carbs, ask for sauces on the side |
| Keto-Friendly Add-ons | Extra Cheese, Avocado (if available), Bacon |
| Portion Control | Stick to moderate protein portions to avoid excess calories |
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What You'll Learn
- Steak Options: Ribeye, sirloin, filet mignon—choose unsauced, grilled cuts for keto-friendly protein
- Low-Carb Sides: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or salad without croutons or sugary dressings
- Butter & Oil: Ask for extra butter or olive oil to keep fats high
- Avoid Sauces: Skip BBQ, honey mustard, or sweet sauces; opt for ranch or blue cheese
- Keto Desserts: Check for sugar-free options or skip dessert to stay on track
Steak Options: Ribeye, sirloin, filet mignon—choose unsauced, grilled cuts for keto-friendly protein
At LongHorn Steakhouse, the keto dieter’s best allies are the unsauced, grilled steak options. Ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon stand out as prime choices, each offering high-quality protein with minimal carbs. Opting for these cuts without added sauces ensures you stay within keto macronutrient goals, typically aiming for 70-75% fat, 20-25% protein, and 5% carbs. For instance, a 6-ounce grilled ribeye contains roughly 0g carbs and 40g protein, making it a perfect fit for a keto meal.
When selecting your steak, consider the fat content to align with your daily fat intake. Ribeye, with its marbling, provides a higher fat content compared to the leaner sirloin or tender filet mignon. Pairing these cuts with non-starchy sides like steamed broccoli or a side salad with olive oil and vinegar dressing enhances the meal’s keto compatibility. Avoid breaded or sauced options, as these can add hidden carbs and derail your diet.
Portion control is key, especially if you’re tracking calories alongside macros. A standard serving of steak for keto is 4-6 ounces, balancing protein intake without overconsuming. For those new to keto, start with smaller portions and gradually adjust based on hunger and energy levels. LongHorn’s menu allows customization, so don’t hesitate to request modifications like extra butter or cheese to increase fat content if needed.
Finally, while steak is a keto staple, variety is essential for long-term adherence. Rotate between ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon to avoid monotony and ensure you’re getting a range of nutrients. Each cut offers a unique texture and flavor profile, keeping your meals enjoyable while staying firmly within keto guidelines. With mindful ordering, LongHorn’s steak options can be a delicious and sustainable part of your keto journey.
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Low-Carb Sides: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or salad without croutons or sugary dressings
Steamed broccoli, green beans, or a salad without croutons or sugary dressings are your keto allies at LongHorn Steakhouse. These low-carb sides offer fiber, vitamins, and minerals without derailing your macros. A cup of steamed broccoli contains just 6 grams of carbs, while green beans clock in at 8 grams per cup. Both are rich in vitamin C and K, supporting immune function and bone health. Opt for olive oil and vinegar or a simple lemon wedge as dressing to keep added sugars at bay.
When ordering, be explicit: request your vegetables steamed, not sautéed in butter or oil, which can add hidden carbs and calories. For salads, skip the croutons, dried fruits, and creamy dressings, which can easily add 15–25 grams of carbs per serving. Stick to leafy greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and avocado for a nutrient-dense base. A side salad with olive oil and vinegar typically contains fewer than 5 grams of carbs, making it a perfect keto companion to your protein.
Portion control matters, even with low-carb sides. A typical side serving at LongHorn is around 1 cup, which fits neatly into a keto diet. If you’re dining out with others, consider splitting a side or asking for a half portion to avoid overeating. Pairing these sides with a grilled steak, salmon, or chicken ensures a balanced meal that keeps you full and satisfied without spiking your blood sugar.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of customization. LongHorn’s menu flexibility allows you to tailor your order to keto needs. For example, ask for double vegetables instead of a starchy side like mashed potatoes or fries. This simple swap can reduce your carb intake by 30–40 grams per meal. With these low-carb sides, you can enjoy a restaurant meal that aligns with your keto goals—no sacrifice required.
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Butter & Oil: Ask for extra butter or olive oil to keep fats high
On a keto diet, maintaining a high fat intake is crucial for staying in ketosis, and LongHorn Steakhouse offers a simple yet effective way to boost your fat consumption: ask for extra butter or olive oil. These healthy fats not only enhance the flavor of your meal but also help you meet your macronutrient goals. For instance, a tablespoon of butter provides about 11 grams of fat, while a tablespoon of olive oil offers around 14 grams. Adding just one or two extra servings can make a significant difference in your daily fat intake.
When ordering, be specific about your request. For example, ask for a side of melted butter with your steak or request olive oil for dipping your low-carb vegetables. LongHorn’s grilled options, like the Outlaw Ribeye or the Flo’s Filet, pair exceptionally well with these additions. Butter complements the richness of red meat, while olive oil adds a light, Mediterranean touch to grilled asparagus or broccoli. Remember, the goal is to increase fat without adding unnecessary carbs, so skip any sugary or starchy sides that might come with these dishes.
One practical tip is to ask for butter or oil on the side, giving you control over the amount you consume. This approach ensures you’re not overdoing it while still reaping the benefits of added fats. For those tracking macros, aim to add 20–30 grams of fat per meal through these extras. For example, two tablespoons of butter (22 grams of fat) or one tablespoon of olive oil plus a tablespoon of butter (25 grams of fat) can easily fit into your keto plan.
While butter and olive oil are excellent choices, be cautious of how they’re prepared. Ensure the butter is served plain, without any added seasonings that might contain hidden sugars. Similarly, confirm that the olive oil is pure and not mixed with vinegar or other carb-heavy ingredients. By staying mindful of these details, you can confidently use butter and oil to keep your keto diet on track at LongHorn Steakhouse.
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Avoid Sauces: Skip BBQ, honey mustard, or sweet sauces; opt for ranch or blue cheese
Sauces can make or break your keto diet at LongHorn Steakhouse. While they add flavor, many are loaded with hidden sugars and carbs. BBQ, honey mustard, and other sweet sauces are prime offenders, often containing upwards of 10–15 grams of carbs per serving—enough to knock you out of ketosis. Even small portions can add up quickly, especially when paired with carb-heavy sides. To stay on track, scrutinize the sauce menu and prioritize options that align with keto principles.
Ranch and blue cheese dressings emerge as keto-friendly heroes in this scenario. Both are typically low in carbs, with ranch averaging around 2 grams per tablespoon and blue cheese slightly less. These creamy options provide rich flavor without the sugar crash. When ordering, request these sauces on the side to control portions. A tablespoon or two is usually sufficient to enhance your meal without overdoing it. Pro tip: Dip your fork into the sauce before spearing your food to maximize flavor while minimizing intake.
The temptation to indulge in sweet or tangy sauces is real, but the consequences for your keto goals are equally tangible. For instance, a single serving of BBQ sauce can contain up to 15 grams of carbs, equivalent to a small apple. Honey mustard isn’t much better, often packing 10–12 grams per serving. These numbers add up fast, especially when combined with other menu items. By contrast, ranch and blue cheese allow you to enjoy saucy satisfaction without derailing your macros.
When dining at LongHorn, approach sauces strategically. Ask your server for nutritional information if available, or use online resources to estimate carb counts. If you’re craving variety, consider modifying your order. For example, pair a grilled steak with a side salad topped with ranch, or ask for blue cheese crumbles instead of dressing. These small adjustments ensure you stay within keto limits while still enjoying a flavorful meal. Remember, the goal isn’t deprivation—it’s making informed choices that align with your dietary needs.
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Keto Desserts: Check for sugar-free options or skip dessert to stay on track
Maintaining a keto diet at LongHorn Steakhouse requires vigilance, especially when it comes to desserts. Most traditional dessert options are laden with sugar, which can quickly derail your carb count. A single slice of apple cobbler, for instance, contains upwards of 60 grams of carbs, far exceeding the daily 20-50 gram limit most keto dieters aim for. Before you indulge, scrutinize the menu for sugar-free alternatives or consider skipping dessert altogether to stay aligned with your goals.
If you’re determined to end your meal on a sweet note, inquire about sugar-free options or modifications. Some LongHorn locations may offer sugar-free cheesecake or other low-carb desserts, though availability can vary. When in doubt, ask your server about ingredients and preparation methods. For example, a plain cheesecake without graham cracker crust can be a viable option, provided it’s made with a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia. Pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream (unsweetened, of course) adds richness without the carbs.
Skipping dessert entirely is another strategic move for keto adherence. Instead, focus on savoring the main course, such as a grilled steak or salmon, which naturally align with keto principles. If you crave something sweet post-meal, bring your own keto-friendly treat, like a dark chocolate square (85% cocoa or higher) or a handful of macadamia nuts. These portable options ensure you don’t feel deprived while staying within your macros.
For those who enjoy a DIY approach, consider ordering a dessert component separately. For instance, request a side of berries (strawberries or blackberries are lowest in carbs) and pair them with a tablespoon of whipped cream. This makeshift dessert keeps carbs minimal while satisfying your sweet tooth. Remember, portion control is key—even low-carb fruits can add up if consumed in excess.
Ultimately, the decision to indulge in dessert at LongHorn hinges on your daily carb budget and commitment to keto. If you’ve stayed under 20 grams of carbs all day, a small sugar-free treat might fit. However, if you’re nearing your limit, skipping dessert is the safest bet. Prioritize long-term progress over momentary cravings, and remember that consistency is the cornerstone of keto success.
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Frequently asked questions
LongHorn offers several keto-friendly appetizers, such as the Grilled Shrimp, Steakhouse Salad without croutons, or the House Salad with a low-carb dressing like ranch or blue cheese.
Yes, steaks are an excellent keto option at LongHorn. Opt for a cut like the Renegade Sirloin, Flo’s Filet, or Ribeye, and pair it with non-starchy sides like steamed broccoli, green beans, or a side salad without high-carb toppings.
Absolutely! Keto-friendly sides include Green Beans with Almonds, Steamed Broccoli, or a House Salad without croutons. Just be sure to ask for no added sugars or high-carb sauces.
Unfortunately, LongHorn’s dessert menu is limited for keto dieters, as most options are high in carbs. However, you can ask for a cup of whipped cream or a sugar-free beverage as a lighter alternative.
