How many calories does an average sausage have?

October 30, 2025 •

3 min read

An average 50g pork sausage contains roughly 130 to 150 calories, but this number can fluctuate dramatically based on the meat, ingredients, and preparation. Whether you are counting calories for a diet or simply curious about your food's nutritional content, understanding the factors that influence sausage calories is key to making informed choices.

Quick Summary

The calorie count of a sausage varies significantly based on its size, meat type, and how it is cooked. Leaner poultry-based sausages have fewer calories than traditional pork or beef varieties. The cooking method, such as grilling versus frying, also substantially impacts the final calorie count. This guide breaks down the calorie differences across popular sausage types.

Key Points

Variable Calorie Count: An average sausage contains 130-150 calories per 50-60g, but this range is significantly influenced by the type of meat and fat content.
Leaner Alternatives: Opting for chicken or turkey sausages typically results in a lower calorie meal, as they use leaner meat compared to traditional pork or beef varieties.
Cooking Method Matters: Grilling or air-frying sausages minimizes added fats and calories compared to pan-frying, which can substantially increase the final calorie count.
Fat and Fillers Impact: The calorie density of a sausage is largely driven by its fat content; fillers like breadcrumbs can also increase carbohydrates and total calories.
Beyond Calories: Sausages can provide valuable protein and micronutrients like B12 and iron but can also be high in sodium and saturated fat, especially processed types.
Read the Label: For precise nutritional information, always check the food label, as calorie counts and macronutrient breakdowns vary widely between brands.

What Defines an Average Sausage's Calories?

When people ask, "how many calories does an average sausage have?" the answer is not a single number, but a range. The term "average" can be misleading due to the vast array of sausages available. The calorie content is determined by several factors, including the type of meat, fat percentage, and added fillers. For example, a standard pork sausage is typically fattier than a chicken or turkey sausage, leading to a higher calorie count. Cooking method also plays a crucial role; a sausage pan-fried in oil will absorb more fat and have a higher caloric value than one that is grilled or air-fried.

The Impact of Meat Type and Composition

Different types of meat used in sausages directly correlate with their calorie content. Pork is the most common ingredient and contributes a high amount of fat and calories. In contrast, chicken and turkey sausages are generally made with leaner meat and less skin, making them a lower-calorie option. The fat content is a primary driver of calories, as one gram of fat contains nine calories, more than double that of protein or carbohydrates. Fillers like breadcrumbs or rusk also add to the carbohydrate and calorie totals, while high-quality, high-meat content sausages might have a more favorable protein-to-calorie ratio.

The Effect of Cooking Methods

How a sausage is prepared can be just as impactful as its ingredients. Frying a sausage in a pan with oil or butter adds significant extra fat and calories, with one source suggesting this can increase the calorie count by 30% or more. Healthier cooking alternatives like grilling, baking, or air-frying allow excess fat to drain away, resulting in a leaner final product. This simple change can make a big difference in the overall calorie intake for those managing their weight.

Understanding Macronutrient Breakdown

Beyond the total calories, it's important to consider the macronutrient breakdown. Sausages are typically a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues. They also contain fats, both saturated and unsaturated, as well as varying amounts of carbohydrates depending on the fillers used. Many sausages are also a source of B vitamins, iron, and other minerals, but they can be high in sodium and preservatives, particularly ultra-processed versions. Checking the nutrition label is always the best way to get a precise picture of what you're consuming.

Calorie Comparison: A Variety of Sausages

This table provides a comparative overview of the estimated calories in various common sausage types, based on typical serving sizes and preparation methods. Values can differ based on brand and recipe.


Sausage Type	Serving Size	Approximate Calories	Key Notes
Pork Sausage (Link)	50-60g	130-150 kcal	High in fat, often a breakfast staple.
Beef Sausage (Link)	50-60g	160-180 kcal	Higher in calories and protein than pork.
Chicken Sausage (Link)	50-60g	110-140 kcal	Leaner alternative, sometimes with added fruit.
Italian Sausage (Pork)	85-100g	234-293 kcal	Spicier, often larger links; higher calories.
Beef Bratwurst (Link)	57g	180 kcal	Contains more fat than a standard beef link.
Smoked Sausage	50-60g	180-200 kcal	Calorie content varies with smoking process.

Conclusion

So, how many calories does an average sausage have? The answer is not straightforward but highly dependent on the type and preparation. While a typical small pork sausage might contain around 130-150 calories, leaner poultry versions can be significantly lower, and larger, richer varieties can be much higher. To make healthier choices, opt for leaner meat sausages like chicken or turkey and use cooking methods that don't add extra fat, such as grilling or baking. Portion control is also essential, especially with smaller, denser sausages that can lead to overconsumption. By understanding these variables, you can enjoy sausage as part of a balanced and calorie-conscious diet.

For additional nutritional details and guides on healthy eating, consider visiting a reputable source such as the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council which offers comprehensive information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pork sausages generally have a higher fat content and, therefore, more calories than chicken sausages. For example, an average pork sausage has around 130-150 calories, while a chicken sausage might have 110-140 calories for a similar size.

Yes, the cooking method has a significant impact. Frying a sausage in oil or butter adds extra fat and calories, whereas grilling, baking, or air-frying allows fat to drain away, resulting in a lower calorie meal.

Breakfast sausages, especially smaller links or patties, can have a different calorie count than larger, regular dinner sausages. For example, a single small pork breakfast patty might have around 88 calories, while a larger Italian sausage link could be over 200 calories.

Vegetarian and vegan sausages vary widely in calorie content. Some made with beans or lentils are low-calorie, while others use high-fat ingredients or oils, making them comparable to or even higher in calories than their meat counterparts.

The fat content in sausages varies greatly. A typical pork sausage may contain around 20-25 grams of fat per 100g, with much of it being saturated fat. Leaner options, like chicken or turkey, contain less fat.

Sausages are a good source of protein, vitamin B12, and iron, particularly those made from red meat. However, processed versions can be high in sodium and preservatives.

Yes, eating sausage can fit into a weight-loss diet when done in moderation. Choosing leaner, low-calorie varieties, controlling portion sizes, and pairing them with vegetables can help manage overall calorie intake.