17 Of The Unhealthiest Foods You Can Order At A Barbecue Restaurant
Ever found yourself at a barbecue joint wondering which of these dishes might be the ultimate guilty pleasure? You’re not alone, my friend.
Barbecue restaurants often serve up dishes that can be a bit too indulgent. If your taste buds are dancing in anticipation but you’re trying to steer clear of the calorie avalanche, let me be your guide.
1. Loaded Cheese Fries
If you’ve ever locked eyes with a plate of loaded cheese fries, you’d know it’s a sight to behold. Picture crispy fries draped in a velvety layer of cheese, topped off with crunchy bacon bits and zesty jalapenos.
With every bite, there’s a symphony of flavors: the creaminess of cheese, the smokiness of bacon, and the spicy kick from jalapenos.
These tempting fries pack a punch when it comes to calories. Loaded cheese fries can be a calorie bomb in disguise. So, savor them wisely and perhaps share with a friend.
2. Fried Onion Rings
Where do I even start with fried onion rings? Imagine biting into the golden, crispy exterior to reach the sweet and tender onion inside. They’re the ultimate crunchy snack. The first bite is all crunch, followed by a gentle sweetness that only onions can deliver.
Though undeniably tasty, these rings are often fried in oils that add up in calories quickly. They’re a charming yet deceptive treat. Consider enjoying them as a sharing platter, allowing you to indulge without overdoing it.
3. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich
How can anyone resist a BBQ pulled pork sandwich? The tender, juicy pork that’s been slow-cooked to perfection, smothered in savory barbecue sauce, is an experience for the taste buds. Each bite melds the flavors together, with the bun soaking up every bit of sauce.
However, that combination of meat and sauce can be calorie-heavy, especially with the added carbs from the bun. While it’s a must-try for many, perhaps consider it a treat rather than a staple. Sometimes, enjoying half might just be the ticket to satisfying your craving.
4. Deep-Fried Jalapeños
Where jalapeños meet the fryer, magic happens. These spicy bites, when deep-fried, transform into crunchy, fiery treats. The heat from the jalapeño pairs beautifully with the crispy coating, making for a thrilling bite.
Though they tickle your taste buds, deep-fried jalapeños are often full of hidden calories. The frying process adds a significant amount of fat. It can quickly turn them from a spicy snack to an indulgent delight. Moderation is your friend here, allowing you to enjoy the heat without the guilt.
5. Coleslaw With Creamy Dressing
Coleslaw is often the unsuspecting star of barbecue sides. The fresh crunch of cabbage and carrots, enveloped in a creamy dressing, creates a taste that complements any grilled dish. It’s the creaminess that often makes coleslaw irresistible.
However, the creamy dressing is where the calories hide. Loaded with fats from mayonnaise or similar dressings, it turns a seemingly healthy side into a calorie-laden treat. Perhaps opt for a vinegar-based dressing if you’re counting calories.
6. Ribs With Sweet Sauce
Ribs are on the menu and it’s hard not to indulge. The tender meat that effortlessly falls off the bone, covered in a sticky sweet sauce, is the stuff of barbecue dreams. Each bite is packed with smoky and sweet flavors that dance on your palate.
However, ribs, especially with sugary sauces, can be calorie-dense. The addition of sugar in the sauce only adds to the calorie count. Rib lovers, perhaps try a dry rub instead. It can offer flavor without the extra sugar.
7. Cornbread With Butter
A comfort food at its finest. The warm, crumbly texture with a hint of sweetness is hard to resist, especially when slathered with butter. It’s the kind of side dish that complements any barbecue meal.
Butter and sugar in the cornbread means calories stack up fast. It’s a delightful indulgence that’s best enjoyed in moderation. Perhaps, consider sharing a piece or two with your dining companions. It will help you savor the taste without overindulging.
8. Brisket With Gravy
Brisket often promises a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The slow-cooked beef, tender and juicy, topped with rich gravy, is a feast for the senses. Each slice is an invitation to savor the blend of flavors and textures.
But brisket with gravy is no lightweight. The combination of fatty meat and rich gravy makes it a heavy dish that’s calorie-rich. If you’re looking to enjoy it, balance it out with lighter sides. Or save it for special occasions. That way, you can relish every bite without a hint of remorse.
9. Smoked Sausage Links
Smoked sausage links are a dish that barbecue enthusiasts often rave about. The smoky, savory flavors with a juicy interior make them irresistible. Each link offers a burst of flavor, and the grill marks add to the allure.
These sausages can be heavy on fats and sodium. While they might be tasty, indulging in large quantities could lead to a calorie overload. Sharing a link or two might be the way to go, ensuring you enjoy the taste without the heaviness.
10. Fried Mac And Cheese Bites
These bites are a nod to indulgence. Imagine creamy macaroni and cheese, wrapped in a crispy coating and fried to perfection. Each bite offers a crunch followed by gooey, cheesy goodness.
However, the frying process adds loads of calories, turning this dish into a decadent treat. While it’s a tempting side to many barbecue meals, enjoying them in moderation can help you relish their cheesy allure. All without going overboard.
11. Potato Salad With Bacon
Potato salad, especially with bacon, is a timeless barbecue companion. The creamy potatoes mixed with crispy bacon bits and a flavorful dressing create a symphony of taste and texture.
However, the creamy dressing and bacon add a hefty dose of calories. If you’re a potato salad aficionado, maybe opt for a smaller serving. Eating it without the bacon or with a lighter dressing can also make this classic side a bit more waistline-friendly.
12. Chocolate Sundae With Nuts
After all the savory indulgence, a chocolate sundae often calls out like a siren. The rich chocolate, topped with whipped cream, crunchy nuts, and a cherry, offers a sweet finale to any meal.
The combination of cream, sugar, and nuts makes it a calorie-dense treat. So, if you’re looking to indulge, sharing with a friend might just be the perfect compromise. It will let you enjoy the sweetness without the calorie guilt.
13. Bacon-Wrapped Smoked Hot Dogs
A heart attack on a plate. Each dog is wrapped in thick, greasy bacon and smoked until the flavors meld into a savory delight. The smokiness combined with the saltiness of the bacon creates an irresistible taste. The high-fat content makes them a dietician’s nightmare.
Eating one feels like indulging in pure culinary sin. The crispy texture and juicy interior are a guilty pleasure. If you can’t resist, consider sharing one with a friend to cut back on the calorie overload. Enjoy it sparingly for your health.
14. Deep-Fried BBQ Pork Dumplings
They are a twist on traditional dumplings that barbecue restaurants offer. Stuffed with succulent pork, these dumplings are seasoned with smoky barbecue sauce before being deep-fried to perfection. The crispy exterior hides a flavorful, juicy center.
Though delicious, they pack a punch in calories and fat. Perfect for those who love crispy textures and rich flavors. The combination of deep-frying and barbecue sauce makes them a calorie bomb. If you’re watching your waistline, balance them with lighter sides.
15. Cheese-Stuffed Jalapeño Cornbread
Each piece is filled with gooey cheese and spicy jalapeños, offering a burst of flavors with every bite. The cornbread’s softness contrasts with the jalapeño’s heat and the cheese’s creaminess. It’s a mouthwatering meal that tempts with each bite.
But we all know that the combination of cheese and cornbread makes it a high-calorie option. For those unable to resist, consider pairing it with a light salad to offset the richness. This treat is perfect for spice lovers seeking a hearty, cheesy delight.
16. Deep-Fried BBQ Ice Cream Sandwiches
Imagine an ice cream sandwich, but taken to the extreme. These deep-fried delights feature a crispy, golden crust enveloping creamy vanilla ice cream. A touch of barbecue sauce glaze adds a smoky sweetness.
While undeniably delicious, the deep-frying process adds a hefty dose of calories and fat, making it a guilty pleasure. Perfect for those who want a dessert with a twist, this dish is as unexpected as it is unhealthy. Consider sharing it with friends to lessen the caloric impact.
17. Barbecue-Smoked Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels
These pretzels are far from ordinary. Each one is stuffed with gooey cheese and then smoked to barbecue perfection. The light charring adds an extra layer of flavor. The melted cheese oozes out with every bite. Served with a side of tangy mustard, they offer a savory, satisfying experience.
The calorie count is through the roof. All thanks to the cheese and smoking process. Eating one might mean skipping other sides. These pretzels are a heart-stopping addition to any barbecue menu. Indulge sparingly, and savor every cheesy mouthful.
