Country‑fried steak, also known as chicken‑fried steak, evokes images of diner platters piled with battered beef and smothered in gravy. At Texas Roadhouse this comfort staple goes by the name Country Fried Sirloin, signalling that a premium cut of steak is used rather than the cheaper cube steak many restaurants serve. Fried and topped with cream gravy, this dish sits in the Country Dinners section of the menu next to pulled pork and grilled pork chops.
With a price point lower than most steaks, it tempts budget‑conscious diners who crave a hearty, down‑home meal. But is it worth ordering? This guide explores the 2026 price and calorie range, explains what makes Texas Roadhouse’s version unique, shares reviews from both fans and critics, and offers tips for tailoring the dish to your taste.
What Is Country Fried Steak?
Texas Roadhouse sums up this dish as “hand‑battered, fresh‑cut sirloin served crispy and golden, topped with cream gravy”. Unlike most chicken‑fried steaks made from cube steak, Texas Roadhouse menu uses tenderised sirloin, a step up in quality that yields a leaner but flavourful cut. The steak is pounded, dipped in seasoned flour and fried until golden, then smothered in your choice of white (cream) or brown gravy.
Country Fried Sirloin
- $14.49 | 1180 Cal
Each dinner includes two sides and warm yeast rolls, making the meal hearty and filling. To customise the plate, diners can choose cream or brown gravy and add toppings such as sautéed mushrooms, onions, blue cheese crumbles or a grilled shrimp skewer for extra flavour.
Price, Portion & Nutrition
Country‑fried steak is popular partly because it offers steak at a lower price point than most grilled cuts. Independent menu data shows that in 2026 the Country Fried Steak (also called Country Fried Sirloin) typically costs between $14.49 and $18.99, depending on location. The dinner includes a large breaded sirloin cutlet, two sides, and unlimited yeast rolls.
Calories vary widely depending on portion size and gravy, but most sources list 780 to 1,170 calories, making it one of the heavier entrées on the menu. The dish packs substantial fat and sodium because the steak is fried and smothered in gravy; some sources note it contains over 2,200 mg of sodium.
Country Fried Steak Price & Nutrition Overview
| Portion | Typical price (USD) | Calories (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Country Fried Steak dinner | $14.49 – $18.99 | 780 – 1,170 calories | Includes two sides, cream or brown gravy, and rolls |
| Lunch or Early Dine portion | $10.99 – $12.99 | 650 – 900 calories | Some locations offer the dish during Early Dine hours at a discount |
| Add‑on country fried steak | $6 – $8 | ~350 calories | A smaller cutlet can be added to another entrée |
Taste & Reviews
Food writers and diners are divided on whether the country‑fried steak is a must‑order. Tasting Table applauded the dish for its use of sirloin and generous portion, noting that it includes two sides and unlimited rolls and that some fans call it “amazing”. A Chowhound article agreed that using sirloin sets Texas Roadhouse apart and highlighted the option to pick cream or brown gravy and add toppings like blue cheese or shrimp. According to a former kitchen manager, staff inspect and trim the steaks before frying, which can improve consistency.
Other critics are far less enthusiastic. A 2024 review warned readers to skip the dish, calling the cutlet paper‑thin, chewy and flavourless with a chalky gravy. A customer‑surveyed ranking placed Texas Roadhouse last among chain chicken‑fried steaks because diners complained of oily breading and fatty chunks. Some reviewers on TripAdvisor said their steaks were tough, full of gristle or even rancid. Because each cutlet is hand‑breaded and fried, quality can vary dramatically between locations; the portion is typically large enough for two, which may justify the cost for some patrons.
Customising & Ordering Tips
A few tweaks can maximise enjoyment:
- Choose gravy and sides wisely: Cream gravy provides milky, peppery comfort while brown gravy has a savoury beefiness; pick whichever you prefer. Balance the fried steak with steamed vegetables, a side salad or seasoned rice instead of heavy sides like mashed potatoes or steak fries.
- Upgrade and save: Add sautéed mushrooms, onions, cheese or a grilled shrimp skewer to boost flavour. Look for Early Dine specials (often weekday afternoons) that drop the price to around $11 and join the VIP Club for occasional coupons.
Value & Comparisons
On a per‑ounce basis the country‑fried steak is cheaper than most grilled steaks and comes with rolls and two sides, so the generous portion can serve two people. Yet quality varies widely. Critics in some rankings complain that the cutlet is mostly breading with little meat and that the gravy can be chalky or greasy. Diners looking for tender beef might prefer a hand‑cut steak such as the sirloin or ribeye, while those who crave crunchy breading and gravy may find the country‑fried version satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Unlike most chicken‑fried steaks made with cube steak, Texas Roadhouse uses a sirloin cut that is tenderised before frying.
The price ranges from $14.49 to $18.99 depending on location. Early Dine specials may drop the price to about $11.
Calories vary by portion and gravy, but most estimates fall between 780 and 1,170 calories.
It’s cheaper than most grilled steaks and larger than many entrées, but reviews are mixed. If you prioritise tender meat over crunchy breading, a grilled sirloin or ribeye may be a better choice.
Conclusion
Texas Roadhouse’s country‑fried steak promises a premium sirloin cutlet fried crisp and smothered in gravy, but diners’ experiences vary. Some rave about the juicy meat, generous portion and home‑style sides, while others complain that the breading is heavy and the steak can be tough. Your enjoyment hinges on personal priorities: if you love crunchy breading, creamy gravy and a big plate at a moderate price, this entrée can satisfy. If tender steak texture matters more, you may prefer one of the chain’s hand‑cut grilled steaks.
With more restaurants and new technology rolling out in 2026, improvements in consistency may come. Until then, make the most of the dish by choosing your gravy wisely, balancing sides and using Early Dine deals to turn a divisive menu item into a satisfying comfort feast. Check Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters