Arby's has brought back its Steak Nuggets, a menu item featuring bite-sized pieces of seasoned steak instead of the traditional chicken. The nuggets, which first appeared on menus last year, are available again at participating locations nationwide as of August 24 for a limited time.
According to Arby's, the decision to reintroduce the Steak Nuggets was driven by customer demand. The chain reports that guests expressed a strong desire for another opportunity to try the product. For this iteration, Arby's has refined the cut of steak used and introduced a new dipping sauce called Horsey Ranch, a blend of ranch and Arby's signature Horsey Sauce.
The Steak Nuggets are offered in five- and nine-piece portions. Additionally, a 20-piece digital-exclusive Party Pack includes two large fries. The chain has also expanded its offerings to include two new bowls featuring the steak nuggets: the Steak 'n Potato Bowl and the Steak 'n Mac Bowl.
The Steak 'n Potato Bowl, which contains 770 calories, combines the Steak Nuggets with crispy potatoes and melted cheese. The Steak 'n Mac Bowl, at 680 calories, features the nuggets atop creamy White Cheddar Mac 'n Cheese, finished with crispy onions.
Arby's, known for its roast beef sandwiches, has a history of experimenting with various meat-centric offerings, including brisket, smoked pulled pork, corned beef, and turkey. The company has also introduced less conventional items like duck sandwiches and Wagyu burgers. The return of the Steak Nuggets is seen as another move to differentiate Arby's in a competitive fast-food market.
Customer reactions to the Steak Nuggets have been varied since their initial introduction. While some reviews have praised the tenderness and flavor, others have described the nuggets as tasting like "dried chunks." The price for a five-piece order was noted as $6.99 before tax by one customer. Despite mixed reviews, Arby's marketing officer Jeff Baker stated that the guests' positive feedback necessitated the product's return.