Understanding the Calorie Count in Walmart's Great Value Hashbrown Patties
When you're planning a meal, knowing the calorie count of your favorite foods is essential. Walmart's private-label brand, Great Value, offers popular frozen hashbrown patties, but their nutritional information can vary slightly over time and between product variations. The most current data indicates a standard patty contains between 110 and 120 calories, but some older or regional products may show different values, like 150 calories. It's always best to check the specific packaging for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
A Detailed Look at the Nutritional Breakdown
The calories in a hashbrown patty are just one piece of the nutritional puzzle. Here is a typical breakdown for a single Great Value patty (approx. 66g):
- Calories: 110–120 kcal
- Total Fat: 5–7g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 210–240mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14–15g
- Dietary Fiber: 1–2g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 1g
This profile shows that the calories primarily come from carbohydrates and fat. The patties contain no sugar and very little protein, and the low amount of saturated fat is a plus compared to some other fried breakfast options. However, it's worth noting the sodium content, which contributes significantly to the daily recommended intake.
Factors That Influence the Final Calorie Count
While the packaging provides a baseline, the actual calories can change based on how you cook your hashbrowns. Here are a few variables to consider:
- Cooking Method: Pan-frying the patties in extra oil or butter will significantly increase the total calories and fat content. Air frying or baking is a much healthier alternative that uses little to no additional fat.
- Serving Size: The standard nutrition panel is for a single patty. A breakfast that includes two or three patties will double or triple the calorie count, respectively.
- Added Toppings: Serving your hashbrowns with cheese, sauces, or other toppings will further increase the total calories.
Comparison of Hashbrown Patties
To put the Great Value patty's calories in perspective, here is a comparison with other common frozen and fast-food options. Note that nutritional values can fluctuate based on specific brands and product reformulations.
| Product | Calories (per patty) | Total Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Great Value (Walmart) | 110–120 | 5–7 | 210–240 |
| McDonald's | ~140 | ~8 | ~310 |
| Ore-Ida Golden Patties | ~120 | ~6 | ~240 |
| Homemade Hashbrowns* | Variable | Variable | Variable |
*Homemade hashbrowns' nutrition depends entirely on ingredients and cooking method.
How to Prepare Healthier Hashbrown Patties
For those looking to enjoy hashbrowns with fewer calories and less fat, the preparation method is key. Here are some options:
- Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F and cook frozen hashbrown patties for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. This method requires little to no oil.
- Oven: Bake the patties on a baking sheet at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, or until cooked through and crisp. Again, using a non-stick sheet or a light spritz of cooking spray will minimize added fat.
- Skillet with Minimal Oil: If you prefer pan-frying, use just a small amount of a healthy cooking oil, such as canola or avocado oil, and blot the finished patties with a paper towel to remove excess grease.
Conclusion
Knowing how many calories are in Walmart hashbrown patties empowers you to make informed decisions about your breakfast. A single Great Value hashbrown patty typically contains 110 to 120 calories, a moderate amount that is easily incorporated into most diets. By choosing healthier cooking methods like air frying or baking, and being mindful of portion sizes, you can enjoy these crispy breakfast treats without overdoing it on calories and fat. Always consult the product packaging for the most current nutritional facts.
For more information on the nutritional content of a wide range of foods, including many supermarket brands, you can consult reliable sources like the USDA FoodData Central database. [https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/]
