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How many calories are in two pieces of Jimmy Dean sausage?

3 min read

According to official product data, two fully cooked Original Pork Sausage Patties from Jimmy Dean contain 280 calories. The precise calorie count for your breakfast depends heavily on the specific Jimmy Dean product you choose, as options vary significantly in ingredients, size, and fat content.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for two pieces of Jimmy Dean sausage varies depending on the specific product, whether it's a pork patty, pork link, or turkey alternative. Factors like cooking method and product type, such as fully cooked versus fresh, directly impact the final nutritional information. Check the product packaging for the most accurate details for your breakfast item.

Key Points

  • Check the Product Type: Calorie counts differ dramatically between pork and turkey sausage, and between fully cooked and fresh options.

  • Pork vs. Turkey: Two fully cooked pork patties contain approximately 280 calories, while two turkey patties have significantly fewer, often around 100-130 calories.

  • Fresh vs. Fully Cooked: Fully cooked sausage has a fixed calorie count, while fresh sausage calories will increase based on the cooking method and any added fats.

  • Serving Size Matters: A standard serving for links is often three pieces, so recalculating for two pieces is necessary; for example, if 3 links have 270 calories, 2 would have about 180.

  • Read the Label: The most accurate way to know the calorie count for two pieces of sausage is to check the nutritional information printed on the specific product package.

  • Consider Your Diet: For a lower-calorie, lower-fat option, turkey sausage is the better choice, while pork varieties offer a richer flavor profile.

In This Article

Calorie Breakdown: Two Pieces of Jimmy Dean Sausage

Determining the exact calorie content of two pieces of Jimmy Dean sausage requires identifying the specific product. Jimmy Dean offers a wide range of sausage products, including fresh and fully cooked varieties, pork and turkey options, and different sizes and shapes (patties vs. links). Each of these factors influences the final calorie count. For example, two fully cooked Original Pork Sausage Patties typically contain around 280 calories, while two fresh pork patties of a similar type contain fewer calories before cooking, but the final amount is influenced by the added cooking oil and method.

Fully Cooked vs. Fresh Sausage

When evaluating the calorie content, a primary consideration is whether the sausage is pre-cooked or fresh. Fully cooked sausage requires only reheating and retains its nutritional values, as listed on the package. Fresh sausage, however, is uncooked and requires preparation, which can add calories if fat is used for frying. A standard 2-ounce serving of fresh pork sausage, when pan-fried, might yield approximately 210–220 calories, depending on the cooking process and added oils.

The Difference Between Pork and Turkey Sausages

For those seeking a lower-calorie option, Jimmy Dean also offers turkey sausage, which is generally leaner. Two fully cooked turkey sausage patties contain significantly fewer calories than their pork counterparts, often around 100-130 calories per two patties, making them a popular choice for weight-conscious individuals. The protein content is also often higher in turkey sausage, which can contribute to feeling full longer. However, the exact nutrition facts can vary by product, so checking the label remains the most reliable method.

What Influences the Calorie Count?

Beyond the basic ingredient (pork vs. turkey), several elements affect the calorie count:

  • Size: Larger patties or thicker links will naturally have more calories per piece.
  • Product Type: Fully cooked items, especially those meant for microwave heating, may have a different calorie profile than raw, fresh sausage that is pan-fried.
  • Added Ingredients: Some varieties include additional flavorings, binders, or fillers that alter the nutritional makeup. Some sausage links, for example, have a high fat content even in smaller servings.
  • Cooking Method: The process of cooking fresh sausage adds to the total calorie count. For instance, frying sausage in oil adds additional fat calories that are not included in the raw nutritional information. Grilling or baking can reduce this effect.

Comparison of Popular Jimmy Dean Sausage Products

Product Type Form Serving Size Approximate Calories (per 2 pieces) Key Characteristic
Original Pork Sausage Fully Cooked Patties 2 Patties 280 calories Classic flavor, quick preparation
Original Pork Sausage Fresh Patties 2 Patties (cooked) ~260 calories All-natural option
Turkey Sausage Fully Cooked Patties 2 Patties 100-130 calories Lower fat and calorie alternative
Original Pork Sausage Fully Cooked Links 3 Links ~270 calories (approx. 180 per 2 links) Convenient microwaveable links
Premium Pork Sausage Fresh Links 2 Links (cooked) ~210 calories Versatile for cooking

Choosing the Right Jimmy Dean Sausage for Your Needs

For those prioritizing convenience, the fully cooked options are a clear winner. If you are watching your calorie intake closely, the fully cooked turkey sausage patties are the best choice. However, if flavor and control over the cooking method are your priority, the fresh pork sausages offer more flexibility. Remember to always consult the nutrition label on the specific package for the most up-to-date and accurate information, as product formulations can change. The Environmental Working Group provides detailed breakdowns of ingredients and potential concerns for various Jimmy Dean products, which can be useful for a more comprehensive nutritional assessment.

Conclusion

To determine how many calories are in two pieces of Jimmy Dean sausage, you must first identify the specific product. The calorie range varies significantly, from around 100-130 calories for two fully cooked turkey patties to approximately 280 calories for two fully cooked original pork patties. Fresh sausage products require consideration for added calories from cooking oil. For the most precise nutritional information, always check the packaging of the product you have purchased. Making an informed choice based on your specific dietary goals, whether focusing on reduced calories or maximizing convenience, will help you better plan your meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Not necessarily. Calorie differences depend on the specific product line. For example, two fully cooked Original Pork Sausage Patties have 280 calories, while a serving of three fully cooked Original Pork Sausage Links has 270 calories, making the per-piece calorie count comparable.

Turkey sausage is typically a lower-calorie and lower-fat alternative to pork. For instance, two fully cooked turkey sausage patties contain approximately 100-130 calories, much less than the 280 calories found in two fully cooked original pork patties.

The main difference is the cooking method. The calorie count on a fresh sausage package is for the raw product. Cooking fresh sausage in oil or butter will add extra calories, which is not factored into the raw nutritional information.

Yes, cooking fresh sausage in oil adds additional calories. For instance, pan-frying with oil can significantly increase the total calorie count beyond the base nutritional value of the raw meat.

Yes, Jimmy Dean offers lower-calorie options, with the fully cooked turkey sausage patties or links being among the best choices for those watching their calorie intake.

The most accurate information is found on the product's nutrition label. Because recipes and serving sizes can change, checking the package of the product you purchased is the most reliable method.

Yes, you can include Jimmy Dean sausage in a low-calorie diet by choosing lower-calorie varieties, such as the turkey sausage. It's important to monitor your intake and balance it with other foods to stay within your daily calorie goals.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.