Quick Answer
Yes, Chilis does offer mashed potatoes and gravy as a side dish option. Mashed potatoes and gravy can be added to any entree for an additional cost.
More Details
Chilis is a popular American casual dining restaurant chain that serves a variety of dishes including burgers, fajitas, pastas, and more. While their menu focuses heavily on Tex-Mex inspired cuisine, they do offer some classic American side dishes like mashed potatoes.
Mashed potatoes have long been a staple side in American cuisine, prized for their smooth, creamy, and comforting texture. At Chilis, customers can order a side of mashed potatoes topped with rich brown gravy, allowing them to enjoy this classic side dish combination alongside dishes like burgers, steaks, ribs, and more.
Ordering Mashed Potatoes at Chilis
To order mashed potatoes and gravy at Chilis, customers have a couple different options:
- Add it as a side dish substitution: Most entrees at Chilis come with a standard side like fries, rice, beans, etc. Customers can substitute and swap these standard sides for mashed potatoes and gravy for an additional charge, typically $1-2 extra.
- Order it as an additional side dish: You can also order mashed potatoes and gravy as an extra side dish to any entree. There is typically a charge for adding on additional sides.
The exact process for ordering mashed potatoes may vary a bit by location or menu version, but servers are accustomed to accommodating requests for side substitutions and additions. Some tips for ordering:
- Ask your server what the best way to order mashed potatoes is for your selected entree
- Specify that you want the mashed potatoes with gravy when ordering
- Expect an additional charge of $1-3 to add it to your meal
- Be aware that quantities may be smaller than ordering it as a main side
With standard sides varying by dish, your best bet is to ask your server to ensure you can get the mashed potatoes and gravy paired with your meal of choice.
Nutrition & Ingredients
The mashed potatoes at Chilis are made fresh in each restaurant with simple ingredients like russet potatoes, butter, milk, and seasoning. The gravy is made from pan drippings from various meats cooked in the kitchen.
According to Chilis’ online nutrition information, a 7oz side order of their mashed potatoes and gravy contains:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 34g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 560mg
Keep in mind that amounts and exact nutritional values may vary depending on the restaurant location. The mashed potatoes and gravy make for an indulgent, comforting side with a good dose of fat, carbs, and sodium. But paired in moderation with a lighter protein-focused entree, they can fit into a balanced diet.
Chilis Mashed Potatoes vs. Other Menu Options
How do Chilis’ mashed potatoes compare to some other popular side dishes on their menu?
| Side Dish | Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes and Gravy (7oz) | 320 | 18g | 34g | 4g |
| Rice Pilaf (6oz) | 210 | 2g | 44g | 3g |
| Black Beans (4oz) | 120 | 1g | 20g | 7g |
| Corn on the Cob (1 ear) | 90 | 2g | 15g | 3g |
As the table shows, mashed potatoes and gravy is one of the higher calorie side options due to its high fat and carb content. However, the portion size is also larger than most other sides. Overall, it offers a heartier, more filling option compared to lighter sides like corn, rice, or beans.
Conclusion
Mashed potatoes and gravy are indeed available at Chilis restaurants upon request. While not a menu item featured heavily in their Tex-Mex centric menu, they can be ordered as a substitute or add-on side to complement your entree. Keep in mind the extra charge and less-healthy nutrition profile compared to other sides. But when craving some classic hearty comfort food, Chilis can oblige and provide you with creamy mashed potatoes doused in savory gravy.