Whenever I visit Texas Roadhouse, I always look forward to the salad. It might sound simple, but there’s something about the mix of crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, crunchy croutons, shredded cheese, and that creamy dressing that makes it more than just a side dish. It’s fresh, full of texture, and pairs perfectly with a hearty steak or even a basket of warm rolls.
What I love most about this salad is that it’s easy to recreate at home with everyday ingredients. You don’t need any fancy tools or complicated steps—just a few fresh vegetables, a good dressing, and the right toppings. Once you put it together, you’ll see why this salad has become such a crowd-pleaser at the restaurant and why it deserves a spot on your home menu too.
Why This Salad is Special?
What makes the Texas Roadhouse salad stand out is the balance of flavors and textures. The base is simple, but every bite brings something different. The lettuce gives it that fresh crunch, while the tomatoes add juiciness. Then you get the sharpness from cheese, the crunch of croutons, and the creaminess of the dressing tying it all together.
I also like how versatile it is. You can enjoy it as a starter before a main meal, or make it a complete dish by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even steak on top. It’s hearty enough to satisfy, yet light enough that you don’t feel weighed down. That mix of freshness and comfort is exactly what keeps people coming back to it.
Texas Roadhouse Salad Ingredients
To make a Texas Roadhouse style salad at home, you’ll need fresh greens, crisp vegetables, crunchy toppings, and a creamy dressing. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, but when combined, they deliver that same restaurant quality flavor. Here is the all ingredients with quantity.
Salad Base
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4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
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1 cup iceberg lettuce, chopped
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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½ cucumber, sliced
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¼ red onion, thinly sliced
Toppings
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup seasoned croutons
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½ cup hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
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4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
Dressing (Ranch Style)
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½ cup mayonnaise
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¼ cup sour cream
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¼ cup buttermilk
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon dried dill
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
Also try- Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Salad (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Making this salad is quick and straightforward. With just a bit of prep, you can have it ready in minutes. Here’s how I put it together:
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Prepare the greens – Wash the romaine and iceberg lettuce thoroughly. Chop them into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl.
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Slice the vegetables – Cut the cherry tomatoes in half, slice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion. Add them to the bowl with the lettuce.
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Mix the dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk. Add garlic powder, onion powder, dill, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
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Add the toppings – Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and croutons over the salad. If you’re using bacon or hard-boiled eggs, add those now as well.
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Toss gently – Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Toss everything lightly so the ingredients are coated but not soggy.
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Serve immediately – Transfer to plates or bowls and enjoy fresh, just like at Texas Roadhouse.
Also try - Texas Roadhouse Steak Marinade Recipe
Tips for the Best Salad
Over time, I’ve found a few simple tricks that make this salad taste even better:
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Keep ingredients cold – Chill your lettuce and veggies before mixing. This keeps the salad crisp and refreshing.
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Use a mix of greens – Combining romaine and iceberg gives you both crunch and flavor.
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Homemade dressing wins – While store-bought works, the fresh ranch dressing makes all the difference.
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Don’t overdress – Add dressing little by little so the salad doesn’t get soggy.
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Add protein for a full meal – Grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak turn this salad into a hearty main dish.
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Fresh croutons – If you can, make croutons at home for extra crunch and flavor.
Texas Roadhouse Salad Serving Suggestions
This Texas Roadhouse salad is versatile and pairs well with many meals. Here are a few ways I like to serve it:
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As a starter – A light portion before a hearty steak or BBQ dinner.
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With grilled meats – Perfect alongside grilled chicken, steak, or ribs.
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As a lunch bowl – Add grilled chicken or shrimp on top to make it a filling meal.
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With bread – Serve with warm rolls or garlic bread to complete the steakhouse feel.
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Party side dish – Make a large bowl for potlucks or family gatherings.
Final Thoughts
Making a Texas Roadhouse-style salad at home is easier than most people think. With fresh greens, crunchy toppings, and a creamy ranch dressing, it brings restaurant flavor right to the table. Whether you enjoy it as a side, a starter, or even a main meal with added protein, this salad never disappoints. It’s quick, customizable, and always refreshing.
Also try - Texas Roadhouse Sweet Potato Recipe