How many calories are in a serving of andouille sausage?

December 2, 2025 •

3 min read

A 2-ounce (56g) serving of many popular andouille sausage brands, like Hillshire Farm, typically contains around 170 calories. This number can vary based on the brand, ingredients, and processing methods, with some specialty or larger links containing significantly more calories. Understanding the specific nutritional information is key to managing your intake effectively.

Quick Summary

Calorie counts for a serving of andouille sausage typically range from 160 to 190, based on a 2-ounce (56g) portion. Factors like brand, meat content (pork, turkey, beef), fat percentage, and specific recipe influence the final nutritional value.

Key Points

Typical Calorie Count: A standard 2-ounce (56g) serving of andouille sausage usually contains between 160 and 190 calories.
Brand Variation: Caloric content differs between brands based on meat composition, with some like Hempler's reporting higher counts due to larger serving sizes or different recipes.
High Fat and Sodium: Andouille is dense in fat and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Preparation Matters: Cooking methods affect calories; grilling allows fat to render, while frying in oil can increase the total caloric load.
Leaner Alternatives: Health-conscious options like chicken andouille sausage are available and offer a lower-calorie, lower-fat alternative.
Portion Control is Key: Due to its concentrated flavor, small amounts of andouille can be used to flavor large, vegetable-rich dishes like gumbo or jambalaya.

Decoding the Calories in Andouille Sausage

Andouille sausage, a staple of Cajun and Creole cooking, is renowned for its smoky, spicy flavor. However, its nutritional content, particularly the calorie count, can vary widely depending on the manufacturer and the specific recipe. Most commonly, a standard 2-ounce (56g) serving will contain between 160 and 190 calories. Brands like Johnsonville report 160 calories per 2oz serving, while Hempler's lists 190 calories for a single 90g sausage. The discrepancy arises from different meat compositions, fat content, and overall portion sizes.

Factors Influencing Andouille Sausage Calories

Several factors play a crucial role in determining the final calorie count of andouille sausage. The primary ingredient is usually pork, but some producers incorporate beef or mechanically separated turkey, which can alter the fat and protein ratio. The ratio of lean meat to fattier pork cuts (such as shoulder or offal) also directly impacts the calorie density. Furthermore, the addition of binders like corn syrup and filler ingredients can introduce extra carbohydrates and calories. The cooking method also affects the final calorie count; grilling can render some of the fat, potentially reducing the calories in the portion consumed, whereas pan-frying might add calories if additional oil is used.

Nutritional Breakdown Beyond Calories

While calories are a key metric, it is also important to consider the complete nutritional profile of andouille sausage. This includes macronutrients like fat, protein, and carbohydrates, as well as micronutrients and sodium. Andouille is a very good source of protein, but it is also high in fat and sodium. For example, a 2-ounce serving can contain up to 15g of fat and over 470mg of sodium, which is a significant portion of the recommended daily intake.

Macronutrient Content in Andouille Sausage (per 2 oz serving):

Fat: Typically ranges from 14-18 grams, much of which is saturated.
Protein: A strong source of protein, with servings often containing 7-12 grams.
Carbohydrates: Generally very low, with most brands reporting 1-3 grams per serving.

Smart Choices and Preparation Methods

For those watching their caloric intake, opting for andouille made with leaner meat, such as chicken andouille, is a smarter choice. The brand Smart Chicken offers a chicken andouille sausage that is lower in fat and calories. Additionally, preparation methods can make a difference. Baking or grilling the sausage on a rack allows excess fat to drip away, while boiling before adding to stews can also reduce overall fat content. When building a meal, pairing andouille with low-calorie, high-fiber foods like bell peppers, celery, and onions, common in many Cajun recipes, can create a more balanced dish. This approach helps to enhance the flavor without significantly increasing the caloric load.

Comparison of Andouille Sausage Brands (per 2 oz / 56g serving)


Brand	Calories	Total Fat	Saturated Fat	Sodium	Protein	Source
Hillshire Farm	170	15g	5g	470mg	7g
Johnsonville	160	14g	4.5g	500mg	7g
Hempler's	~118*	~8.1g*	~2.8g*	~400mg*	~9.3g*
Aidells	200**	16g	5g	600mg	12g
Country Pleasin'	190	18g	6g	480mg	7g

*Note: Hempler's reports per 90g serving, values have been approximated to a 56g standard serving for comparison purposes. **Aidells uses a different serving size for some products, refer to packaging.

The Role of Andouille in a Balanced Diet

While traditional andouille is not a low-calorie food, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Its rich, smoky flavor means a little goes a long way, making it an excellent ingredient for adding depth to dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, and red beans and rice without needing excessive amounts. By using smaller portions and focusing on combining it with other healthy ingredients, you can control your overall caloric intake. The key is to be mindful of serving sizes and to be aware of the brand-specific nutrition facts.

Conclusion

The number of calories in a serving of andouille sausage typically falls between 160 and 190 for a 2-ounce portion, but this varies by brand and preparation. It is a high-flavor ingredient that is also high in fat and sodium. For those monitoring their calories, opting for lean poultry versions or managing portion sizes is a good strategy. By being informed about the nutritional value, you can continue to enjoy the distinctive taste of andouille as part of a healthy, flavorful diet.

Shop Smart Chicken andouille sausage for a lower calorie alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

A typical serving size for packaged andouille sausage is 2 ounces (56 grams), though some brands may use a different serving size, such as a single link.

Yes, the cooking method can affect the final caloric content. Grilling or baking on a rack allows some of the fat to render and drain away, potentially reducing the calories in the portion you eat compared to pan-frying.

Yes, traditional andouille sausage is considered high in fat, with fat contributing a significant portion of its total calories. A 2-ounce serving can contain 14-18 grams of fat.

Andouille is often comparable in calories to other smoked pork sausages but is generally higher than leaner options like chicken or turkey sausage. Calorie counts can vary, so it's always best to check the specific brand's nutritional information.

Yes, some brands produce leaner versions of andouille sausage, often using chicken or a blend of leaner meats. These options can offer similar flavor with fewer calories and less fat.

Because it is very low in carbohydrates (typically 1-3g per serving), andouille sausage can be suitable for a low-carb or keto diet. However, you must account for its high fat and overall calorie content to fit within your daily goals.

To include andouille sausage in a healthy meal, use it as a flavorful ingredient rather than the main component. Pair a small portion with large amounts of vegetables, fiber-rich ingredients like rice, and legumes in dishes like gumbo or jambalaya.