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The Whataburger gluten free menu contains a number of delicious items, and who better to rank them than a chef well versed in the All-American classics: burgers, fries, and shakes.8
This definitive ranking of all things delicious and gluten free at Whataburger includes the best options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and most importantly, dessert! Those with gluten allergies or gluten sensitivities are invited to try these recommendations, as well as tips to remain gluten free and avoid exposure from cross contamination!
Does Whataburger Have a Gluten Free Menu or GF Menu Items?
Fortunately for gluten sensitive and gluten free burger lovers, Whataburger has a wide variety of gluten free menu items to avoid an autoimmune response that causes harsh symptoms in the body for those with Celiac disease or an intolerance.1
There are also tips and tricks for avoiding gluten completely at their many restaurant locations.
While the Whataburger menu is not certified gluten free and lacks a specific gluten free section, there are still a number of tasty gluten free Whataburger options.
This can be reliving because as most of us know, eating out and enjoying a meal can be difficult for those who are gluten free. It’s stressful to have to worry about gluten contamination and the oh so miserable side effects that come along with gluten allergies.
Luckily, there are a wide variety of gluten free options at Whataburger that satisfies every craving.
Are Whataburger Fries Gluten Free?
Source: LauriPatterson via Canva.com6
Whataburger fries are perhaps the most delicious thing on their menu, but it can be tricky to know if they are actually gluten free because while fires are inherently gluten free, Whataburger makes their fries in the same fryer as other other items containing gluten.
Therefore, Whataburger fries are not gluten free due to cross contamination. If a person has severe gluten reactions then this chef recommends trying a number of Whataburger’s other gluten free sides.
Does Whataburger Have Gluten Free Buns?
Unfortunately, Whataburger does not currently offer a gluten free bun, nor do they offer lettuce wraps at every location. However, some restaurants may be able to accommodate lettuce wraps if asked upon ordering. It never hurts to check with your waiter or waitress!
Alternatively, gluten free individuals can simply order any burger on Whataburger’s menu without the bun to avoid eating gluten. Not only is this an easy way to remain gluten free, going bun-less is also in line with many trending diets that help individuals with hard to lose weight.
It’s a low carb and keto friendly way to save on calories and help the body to burn fat. In fact, studies have shown that low carbohydrate diets can help lose weight quickly and maintain said weight loss.2
Are Whataburger Shakes Gluten Free?
Along with Whataburger’s amazing gluten free burgers, Whataburger offers incredible gluten free shakes to satisfy every sweet tooth. Their delicious milkshakes come in chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors or can be enjoyed in any combination of the three. Feeling brave?
Try their gluten free Dr. Pepper shake for an intense burst of flavor for dessert.
Milkshakes can be high in calories and may not fit into everyone’s diet plan. If a gluten free dieter is still craving a sweet drink, try swapping this dessert out for a protein shake at home, or look into gluten free pre-made drinks such like Shakeology vs Slimfast.
Does Whataburger Have Gluten Free Sauces?
Most people would agree that burgers are meant to be shared with an array of tasty sauces to accentuate their delectable taste. But for a gluten free dieter, enjoying a condiment comes with the stress of its unknown ingredients.
Luckily, Whataburger offers a variety of condiments for everyone to enjoy, even for those who are gluten free. Try out their fancy or spicy ketchup, mustard, picante sauce, salsa verde, or margarine, all of which contain zero gluten.
Whataburger Gluten Free Menu Items Ranked by Chef
Although many of the Whataburger gluten free options are delicious, there is no denying that some are better than others. Fortunately, this chef has a comprehensive ranking of Whataburger’s menu to help gluten free guests enjoy their meals to the fullest!
Gluten Free Burgers Ranked
Remember, Whataburger does not offer gluten free buns, so make sure to order bun-less to enjoy a delicious burger without any gluten!
Source: Ockra via Canva.com7
#1. The Avocado Bacon Burger: This delicious burger combines the smooth buttery flavor of avocado with the boldness of both bacon and beef. Together the rich flavor is enough to satisfy even the most intense of hungers.
Coming in at about 620 calories (accounting for the lack of bun of course), this burger can be both dieter friendly and gluten free. Add a side of healthy apple slices to make a complete meal!
In addition to being the best tasting option, the avocado makes this selection quite a bit healthier. Research shows that avocado consumption has a number of health benefits such as supporting cardiovascular health, weight loss, and healthy aging.3 It truly is a superfood.
#2. The Jalapeno and Cheese Burger: Like a little bit of spice? This south of the border inspired burger gives just that, making it a cult classic among whataburger patrons. The hotness of the jalapenos blends just right with smooth, creamy cheese to perfectly mesh these two flavors.
When ordered bun-less, this burger is approximately 480 calories and an ideal choice for gluten free guests who like it hot.
#3. The Grilled Chicken Sandwich: Although not a burger, this sandwich deserves an honorable mention. It consists of tender chicken that is seasoned and grilled to perfection.
Coming in at only 270 calories when ordered without the bun, this sandwich practically melts in your mouth and is an enjoyable alternative for gluten free individuals who are looking for a healthy and filling meal.
Gluten Free Sides, Breakfast Items & Other Foods at Whataburger
#1. Apple Slices: Who doesn’t like apples? Not only is the fresh fruit tasty, it’s healthy too. Packed with vitamins and minerals vital to the body for survival, this side and breakfast option is a nutritious and low calorie staple for gluten free individuals at Whataburger.
Fruit, although gluten free, can sometimes scare dieters away due to its high content of sugar. Many might find themselves asking “is watermelon good for weight loss? Is apple? Is kiwi?” Don’t worry, the sugar in fruit is all natural and much different from the refined, processed sugar in other desserts making this one of the healthiest choices for gluten free dieters to enjoy!
Unfortunately, Whataburger gluten free sides are limited to the apple slices. Due to their shared fryer, commonly gluten free ingredients such as hash brown sticks or french fries are exposed to gluten. Everyone is different, so if mild amounts of gluten contamination is in line with a person’s dietary restrictions then the hash brown sticks or fries might be a viable option.
Whataburger Gluten Free Salads
#1. Apple and Cranberry Salad: Delicious, nutritious, and gluten free! This option is so tasty that it’s easy to forget that it doesn’t contain any gluten at all! The crisp lettuce and sweetness of the apples and cranberries all combine to satisfy hunger.
This chef recommends adding grilled chicken to balance out the sweet flavor and provide some healthy protein.
Not only is this salad gluten free, but a great option for weight loss too! Remember, choosing healthy foods is perhaps number one on the list of weight loss rules. There is no better way to eat healthy than a nutritious and delicious salad!
#2. Garden Salad: Alternatively to the salad above, this garden salad is bold, flavorful, savory, and full of vegetables. Lettuce, cherry tomatoes, carrots, and red onions add to the intense mix of flavors to create a perfectly healthy lunch or dinner.
Try pairing this salad with any of these mouthwatering gluten free dressings: balsamic vinaigrette, ranch, or thousand islands.
While sweeter salads are delicious, there is evidence that suggests consuming vegetable based salads results in an increase in nutritional intake and increase in diet quality in comparison to the rest of the population.4 This helps support the body’s health while also promoting weight loss.
Whataburger Desserts That Are Gluten Free
#1. Whataburger Shakes: Cold and refreshing. Sweet and flavorful. Out of all the Whataburger gluten free dessert options, the variety of flavored shakes are perhaps the most delicious gluten free item at Whataburger! Vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and Dr. Pepper flavors are all highly recommended.
Milkshakes often come with a steep caloric price, so if weight loss is the goal then it’s suggested to try making protein shakes at home to satisfy cravings and still remain healthy. There are plenty of protein shake diet plans to help readers achieve their weight loss goals while remaining gluten free.
#2. Fruit Chews: Coming in at a very close second, Whataburger’s fruit chews are a yummy gluten free dessert full of tangy, sweet flavor. With only 80 calories per serving, this tasty treat is perfect for both those who are gluten free, and those who are watching their calories. Enjoy!
Gluten Free Drinks Ranked
Whataburger has such a variety of gluten free drinks that it’s impossible to rank them all. So check out this complete list of options Whataburger provides and rest easy knowing that none of them contain gluten.
- Tea, sweet and unsweetened
- Coffee
- Water
- Milk, chocolate and regular
- Orange Juice
- Coke
- Sprite
- Dr. Pepper
- Lemonade
- Poweraid
- Hi-C
- Fanta
- Mellow Yellow
How To Avoid Gluten at Whataburger & Order GF
Gluten can be difficult to avoid, and it becomes especially stressful when entrusting someone else to ensure a meal is gluten free. In fact, research supports the notion that eating gluten free is very difficult to do!
One study found that those with gluten free dietary restrictions still regularly consumed gluten resulting in digestive symptoms and even damage to the digestive tract.5 With that in mind, try these suggestions to ensure a gluten free experience at Whataburger, or any preferred restaurant with gluten free options.
Cross Contamination
As those with gluten allergies know all too well, gluten can cause intense and uncomfortable reactions such as fatigue, bloating, and even diarrhea in severe cases. With that in mind, many gluten free restaurant goers fear cross contamination or accidental exposure.
In order to prevent either from happening, precautions can be taken.
Talk to a Manager
Understandably, many people don’t like to make a fuss, especially when it comes to busy, hardworking waiters. However, asking to speak with a manager or simply telling a server about food preferences is a great way to ensure all items ordered fit the gluten free dietary standards.
Food Allergies
Some gluten allergies are extremely severe and cause a significant immune response in the body. When this happens, it is known as celiac’s disease. In cases such as these, don’t be afraid to talk to a manager and specifically let them know about the condition.
Understanding that a patron’s health is on the line can help convey the seriousness of limiting gluten exposure and ensure they do not forget.
Menu
While Whataburger has a wide variety of gluten free options and hacks to order completely gluten free meals, it’s important to remember that there is not a certified Whataburger gluten free menu.
This is important for those who are gluten free to keep in mind, as cross contamination and exposure to gluten can still happen even after taking every precaution. If a gluten allergy is very severe, it might be best to check out a different restaurant with certified gluten free options, Freddys gluten free menu is definitely worth looking at.
Example of a Gluten Free Order at Whataburger
Try combining any number of the suggestions above for a complete gluten free experience at Whataburger. Here are some favorite gluten free combinations to try, for every time of day, and for every type of hunger.
Breakfast: Try ordering the sliced apples for a healthy, sweet treat in the morning. Pair with high in vitamin C orange juice or calcium filled milk for a balanced nutritious breakfast. Don’t forget the coffee to help start the morning.
Lunch: The apple and cranberry salad with grilled chicken is a great way to refuel for the rest of the day. It pairs wonderfully with the balsamic vinaigrette. Try it with a sweetened or unsweetened tea for a little caffeine boost too.
Dinner: Order a jalapeno and cheese burger with no bun and a side of apple slices to enjoy a completely gluten free dinner. This combination is absolutely delicious! Pair it with any of the incredible milkshake flavors for dessert.
No matter the time of day or type of food, Whataburger has a gluten free option available to satisfy all types of hunger. So regardless of cravings, don’t be afraid to try out a Whataburger gluten free option but be sure to double check your order with a manager first to avoid any cross contamination!
References
1National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. 2022. Celiac Disease. National Institutes of Health (NIH). Web. Retrieved on 14 October 2022. <https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/celiac-disease>
2Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health. 2022. Low Carbohydrate Diets. Harvard. Web. Retrieved on 14 October 2022. <https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/carbohydrates/low-carbohydrate-diets/>
3Dreher, M. L., & Davenport, A. J. (2013). Hass avocado composition and potential health effects. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 53(7), 738–750. <https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2011.556759>
4Hoy, M. K., Sebastian, R. S., Goldman, J. D., Wilkinson Enns, C., & Moshfegh, A. J. (2019). Consuming Vegetable-Based Salad Is Associated with Higher Nutrient Intakes and Diet Quality among US Adults, What We Eat in America, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2014. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 119(12), 2085–2092. <https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2019.04.018>
5Wieser, H., Ruiz-Carnicer, Á., Segura, V., Comino, I., & Sousa, C. (2021). Challenges of Monitoring the Gluten-Free Diet Adherence in the Management and Follow-Up of Patients with Celiac Disease. Nutrients, 13(7), 2274. <https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13072274>
6LauriPatterson. “Frings.” Canva. Accessed 13 April 2023. <https://www.canva.com/photos/MAEEE3rjWEw-frings-french-fries-and-onion-ring-combo/>
7Ockra. Canva. Accessed 13 April 2023. <https://www.canva.com/photos/MADQG2gEwz8-homemade-gluten-free-halloumi-burger/>
8wundervisuals. “Friends eating burgers.” Canva. Accessed 13 April 2023. <https://www.canva.com/photos/MAEJKU0jufA-friends-eating-burgers/>