Steak nuggets hit Arby’s menus in bold move beyond chicken

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Arby’s has built a brand on the back of beef. Now it is doubling down with an unusual innovation: steak nuggets. Unveiled nationwide this month, Arby’s steak nuggets are the company’s latest attempt to stand out in the increasingly crowded fast food landscape. They are designed to be a convenient, protein-rich offering for on-the-go consumers who still want a full-flavored, meat-heavy experience.

Served in three different formats: a la carte, sandwich, and bowl. The steak nuggets are hand-cut pieces of beef seasoned with garlic and black pepper, then seared and smoked to deliver depth in a bite-sized format. This launch signals a stronger push into portable, meat-forward options that go beyond Arby’s signature sliced roast beef.

It is a calculated risk in a segment that still revolves around chicken nuggets and fried offerings. Arby’s is positioning itself as the destination for customers who want more than poultry, targeting those seeking indulgence with a premium edge.

Steak in a nugget: how Arby’s aims to elevate protein snacking

The launch includes three variations: a 5- or 9-piece a la carte order, a steak nugget sandwich, and a steak nugget bowl. The sandwich pairs steak nuggets with crispy onions, sliced pickles, melted Havarti cheese, and roasted garlic mayo on a toasted bun. It focuses on layered flavors and texture contrast. The bowl places steak over white cheddar mac and cheese and adds crispy onions on top.

The a la carte option keeps it simple: steak nuggets served with a side of barbecue sauce for dipping. Each format reflects Arby’s effort to serve different preferences. A 5-piece nugget order has about 340 calories and 17 grams of protein, while the bowl contains 880 calories and 34 grams of protein. These items are intended to serve as full meals rather than snacks.

Unlike chicken nuggets, which rely on batter and deep-frying, Arby’s steak nuggets use minimal coating and rely on the beef itself. That distinction makes them both a selling point and a challenge. Without the benefit of breading and frying, any flaw in texture or seasoning becomes more noticeable.

A calculated bet on premium protein in bite-sized form

This launch is more than a menu refresh. It reflects a broader shift in the quick-service restaurant sector as chains respond to demand for higher-protein, lower-carb options without giving up the indulgence fast food delivers.

Consumer data from 2024 showed rising interest in protein-heavy meals, particularly among younger men and fitness-conscious buyers. Arby’s has leaned into this trend before with items like the Half Pound Roast Beef sandwich and the Meat Mountain stack. Steak nuggets push that approach further by offering it in a more mobile format.

Beef-based nuggets are rare in fast food. Most chains focus their innovations on chicken or plant-based offerings. Steak is costlier, less forgiving in texture, and harder to prepare at scale. By figuring out how to serve it in nugget form, Arby’s is hoping to gain an edge before competitors respond.

Challenges in delivering steak in a fast food setting

Cooking steak properly is difficult even in traditional kitchens. Doing it consistently in a drive-thru environment adds complications.

Early reviews have pointed to uneven texture, with some customers reporting dryness or chewiness. Others have raised concerns about portion size and value, especially compared to chicken nuggets, which often deliver more for the price.

Arby’s must balance flavor and consistency with cost and preparation time.

One adjustment could involve improving searing techniques or refining nugget cuts to preserve moisture. Some variation is likely across hundreds of locations, but reducing those gaps could help sustain customer interest.

Despite these issues, the launch signals a willingness to take risks. Even if not every location gets it right, the brand message is clear: Arby’s is trying to lead through product innovation instead of relying solely on digital coupons or meal bundles. That stands out in a market dominated by incremental menu tweaks.

Sources
USA Today

Photo credit:
Arby’s