Applebee’s Keto Options (Low Carb Menu 2023)

Applebee’s is a popular chain restaurant known for its classic American fare. However, with the increasing popularity of the ketogenic diet, many diners are seeking out low-carb options. In this article, we will explore Applebee’s keto options and provide a comprehensive guide to their low-carb menu for 2023.

Whether you’re sticking to a strict ketogenic diet or simply trying to cut down on carbs, this article has got you covered. So, sit back, relax, and discover the keto-friendly options available at your favorite neighborhood grill and bar.

What Is a Keto Diet or Ketogenic Diet?

The ketogenic diet commonly referred to as the “keto diet“, is a low-carb, high-fat diet that aims to change the way the body uses energy.

When following a keto diet, the goal is to consume sufficient amounts of healthy fats and protein, while significantly reducing carbohydrate intake. This shift in macronutrient balance causes the body to enter a state of ketosis, where it begins to burn fat for energy instead of carbohydrates.

The diet has become popular for its potential health benefits, such as weight loss, improved blood sugar control, and increased energy levels. However, it’s important to note that the ketogenic diet should only be followed under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as it can have adverse effects if not properly managed.

How to Order Keto-Friendly Items (Low Carb Meals)

Here are some general guides on how to order ketogenic-friendly items at Applebee’s or other fast food chains:

1. Choose protein-rich options: Opt for dishes that are high in protein and low in carbohydrates, such as grilled chicken, steak, or salmon. These dishes are often a great source of healthy fats and can help you stay within your daily macronutrient goals.
2. Avoid high-carb sides: To stay in line with a ketogenic diet, it’s important to avoid sides that are high in carbohydrates, such as french fries, pasta, and rice. Instead, opt for sides such as steamed vegetables, a side salad, or a side of coleslaw.
3. Customize your meal: If you’re struggling to find a ketogenic-friendly option on the menu, consider customizing your meal. For example, ask for your burger without the bun or order a salad with grilled chicken and avocado, hold the croutons.
4. Ask your server for recommendations: Your server will be happy to assist you with recommendations based on your dietary needs. Be sure to let them know that you’re following a ketogenic diet, so they can make suggestions accordingly.
5. Be mindful of sauces and dressings: Many sauces and dressings are high in carbohydrates and added sugars, so be sure to ask for them on the side. Opt for dressings made with oil and vinegar or a spicy mustard to add flavor to your dish.

Applebee’s Keto Options (Low-Carb Meals)

For those following a ketogenic diet, it can be a challenge to find options that fit their dietary needs while dining out. Although Applebee’s does not have a specific keto menu, there are still a few options available for customers to choose from.

These include:

6 Oz. Top Sirloin With Steamed Broccoli

Nutrition facts: 300 calories, 15 grams of fat, 37 grams of protein, 6 grams of total carbs, and 3 grams of net carbs

In this dish, you’ll enjoy a sirloin steak overflowing with protein, accompanied by a serving of broccoli. If you prefer a larger cut, consider ordering the 8 oz. top sirloin steak option. To maintain a low-carbohydrate diet, it’s important to steer clear of sides such as mashed potatoes.

12 oz. Ribeye with Steamed Broccoli

Nutrition facts: 700 calories, 48 grams of fat, 37 grams of protein, 6 grams of total carbs, and 3 grams of net carbs

Satisfy your hunger with a hearty 12 oz ribeye steak and steamed broccoli. This meal provides 63g of protein, making it a great option for those who want to stay full for an extended period. To stay on track with a ketogenic diet, skip sides like mashed potatoes.

Double-glazed Baby Back Ribs

Nutrition facts: 900 calories, 64 grams of fat, 80 grams of protein, 1 gram of total carbs, and 0 grams of net carbs

Enjoy a full portion of double-glazed baby back ribs at Applebee’s. To keep this meal ketogenic-friendly, skip the coleslaw, as it is high in sugar. If a full portion is too big, opt for a half rack instead. Pair your ribs with a healthier side option such as steamed broccoli or a side salad.

Bourbon Street Steak

Nutrition facts: 540 calories, 35 grams of fat, 48 grams of protein, 9 grams of total carbs, and 7 grams of net carbs

This steak is flavored with a garlic butter blend, Cajun seasoning, and seasoned mushrooms and onions, making it an ideal choice for those following a ketogenic diet. Remember to pass on the mashed potatoes to keep them low in carbohydrates. Complement your steak with a side salad to add more vegetables to your meal.

Shrimp ‘N Parmesan Sirloin

Nutrition facts: 660 calories, 43 grams of fat, 62 grams of protein, 10 grams of total carbs, and 6 grams of net carbs

In this meal, you’ll get the best of both steak and seafood. Your entree includes an 8 oz. top sirloin steak seasoned with blackened spices and paired with sauteed shrimp in a rich lemon butter Parmesan sauce. Topped with Parmesan cheese, and parsley, and served with a side of broccoli, this meal offers a tantalizing combination of flavors and textures.

Grilled Chicken Breast 

Nutrition facts: 290 calories, 11 grams of fat, 43 grams of protein, 6 grams of total carbs, and 4 grams of net carbs

A simple and nutritious meal consists of seasoned chicken breast served with a side of broccoli, providing plenty of protein and low-fat content.

Bourbon Street Chicken and Shrimp

Nutrition facts: 490 calories, 29 grams of fat, 51 grams of protein, 10 grams of total carbs, and 8 grams of net carbs

This meal combines juicy grilled chicken breast seasoned with bold Cajun spices and a rich garlic butter blend. It’s paired with sauteed shrimp, onions, and mushrooms for an irresistible flavor combination. Consider ordering a side of steamed broccoli or a side salad.

Fiesta Lime Chicken

Nutrition facts: 420 calories, 24 grams of fat, 37 grams of protein, 6 grams of total carbs, and 3 grams of net carbs

Savor a flavorful and keto-friendly meal with grilled chicken breast coated in a tangy cilantro lime glaze and topped with a sprinkle of seasoning and shredded cheese. If you want to make this dish even lower in carbohydrates, consider skipping the pico de gallo, which can help you save a gram or two.

Blackened Cajun Salmon

Nutrition facts: 340 calories, 18 grams of fat, 39 grams of protein, 10 grams of total carbs, and 3 grams of net carbs

This dish is one of the healthiest options available at Applebee’s, providing a wealth of healthy fats. It comes with a side of steamed broccoli, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Double-Crunch Bone-In Wings

Nutrition facts: 670 calories, 35 grams of fat, 60 grams of protein, 5 grams of total carbs, 2 grams of net carbs.

These wings are rich in protein and fat, making them a satisfying option without the worry of exceeding your carb limit. They offer a delightful crunch and robust flavor, making them a top pick for both taste and nutritional balance. Ideal for anyone following a ketogenic diet, they’re a delicious way to enjoy a meal out without straying from your dietary goals.

Applebee’s Keto Options: Handcrafted Burgers

Applebee’s Handcrafted Burgers offer a unique and delicious way to experience a classic American favorite. They are made with fresh ingredients, offering just the right amount of flavor and texture. Applebee’s also offers burgers that can be customized to fit any dietary restrictions you may have, such as keto diets.

To make the burger keto friendly, simply omit the buns and some high-carb sauces, like honey mustard or barbecue sauce. Opt for lettuce wrap if it’s available in your local Applebee’s, you’ll still get all the juicy flavors of a classic burger without the added carbs. Plus, there are plenty of other toppings to choose from that will enhance your meal. No matter what your dietary needs are, Applebee’s Handcrafted Burgers are sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters!

Classic Cheeseburger

Nutrition facts: 510 calories, 39 grams of fat, 37 grams of protein, 5 grams of total carbs, and 2 grams of net carbs

Skip the buns and fries, this burger features a juicy beef patty topped with American cheese, fresh tomato slices, red onion, pickle chips, and fresh lettuce.

Quesadilla Burger

Nutrition facts: 890 calories, 68 grams of fat, 60 grams of protein, 12 grams of total carbs, and 9 grams of net carbs

Omit the tortilla to enjoy a keto-friendly quesadilla burger. This meal includes a beef patty, melted pepper jack cheese, crispy bacon, and a blend of shredded cheese, all nestled between crisp iceberg lettuce and pico de gallo. To keep it low-carb, avoid ordering the ranch dressing and skip the fries.

Whiskey Bacon Burger

Nutrition facts: 670 calories, 51 grams of fat, 49 grams of protein, 6 grams of total carbs, and 5 grams of net carbs

To make this menu item keto-friendly, omit the buns and the whiskey sauce, and hold the onions. You’ll still get a juicy beef patty, crispy bacon, lettuce, flavorful pepper jack cheese, pickles, and ripe red tomatoes. If you’re looking to add more vegetables to your diet, opt for a side salad or another low-carb, keto-friendly side dish.

Bacon Cheddar Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Nutrition facts: 470 calories, 24  grams of fat, 57 grams of protein, 5  grams of total carbs, and 3 grams of net carbs

Skip the bun and eliminate the BBQ ranch sauce. The dish consists of a grilled chicken breast, Applewood-smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, lettuce, pickles, seasoning, red onion slices, and tomato slices.

Clubhouse Grille

Nutrition facts: 570 calories, 42 grams of fat, 40 grams of protein, 9 grams of total carbs, and 8 grams of net carbs

This meal includes ham, turkey, bacon, cheddar, Swiss cheese, lettuce, mayo, and tomato slices. It’s a good option if you’re not in the mood for steak or shrimp. To make it keto-friendly, ask for it without the bread and hold the honey BBQ sauce.

Caesar Salad with Blackened Shrimp

Nutrition facts: 570 calories, 47 grams of fat, 25 grams of protein, 14 grams of total carbs, and 9 grams of net carbs

In this salad, enjoy a mix of greens topped with grilled chicken breast, cucumber, parsley, red onion, and a lemon olive oil vinaigrette. To reduce the carb count, skip the bruschetta and opt for a low-carb dressing alternative.

Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken

Nutrition facts: 670 calories, 49 grams of fat, 48 grams of protein, 12 grams of total carbs, and 7 grams of net carbs

Same as the last options but with grilled chicken. Enjoy a grilled chicken Caesar salad minus the croutons. To keep it low-carb, opt for a different dressing, such as ranch, instead of the traditional Caesar dressing.

Grilled Chicken Salad

Nutrition facts: 430 calories, 19 grams of fat, 54 grams of protein, 11 grams of total carbs, and 6 grams of net carbs

Enjoy a healthy and tasty meal with this green salad mix, topped with juicy grilled chicken breast, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese. To keep the meal low in carbs, opt for a low-carb dressing like bleu cheese or the lemon olive oil vinaigrette instead of honey dijon mustard.

Tuscan Garden Chicken Salad

Nutrition facts: 580 calories, 37 grams of fat, 45 grams of protein, 22 grams of total carbs, and 15 grams of net carbs

This delicious Tuscan garden salad is composed of succulent grilled chicken, crisp cucumbers, juicy red onions, fragrant parsley, and bruschetta, all atop a bed of fresh greens. If you’re looking to keep your carb intake low, simply skip the bruschetta and choose a low-carb dressing, such as lemon olive oil vinaigrette, in place of the original.

Keto Sides & Salad Dressings

Here is a list of sides and salad dressings under 5 grams of net carbs:

• Caesar Salad (omit the croutons)
• House Salad (omit the croutons)
• Steamed Broccoli
• Garlicky Green Beans
• Homestyle Cheesy Broccoli
• Bleu Cheese Salad Dressing
• Caesar Salad Dressing
• Lemon Olive Oil Vinaigrette
• Mexi-Ranch Salad Dressing
• Ranch Salad Dressing

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Applebee’s have a keto menu?

No, Applebee’s does not have a specific keto menu. But you can customize menu items to make them keto friendly.

What keto options are available at Applebee’s?

Some options include salads with grilled chicken, burgers without the bun, and steak.

Does Applebee’s offer any low-carb sides for keto diners?

Yes, options for low-carb sides include steamed or grilled vegetables.

Does Applebee’s have any keto-friendly desserts?

Applebee’s does not currently offer any keto-friendly dessert options.

Can I find nutrition information for Applebee’s dishes on their website?

Yes, nutrition information is available on Applebee’s website.

Conclusion

Overall, there’s a hefty of Applebee’s keto options for those following a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet. While the restaurant does not have a specific keto menu, customers can find options such as salads with grilled chicken, burgers without bun, and steak. It’s recommended to check the nutrition information and to ask for modifications to make the dishes fit a ketogenic diet. However, diners should note that eating out can be challenging for those following a strict ketogenic diet and it’s best to plan ahead and make informed choices.