Understanding the Carb Count in Tennessee Pride Sausage Balls
When a person considers adding a popular frozen appetizer or breakfast item to their diet, understanding the full nutritional profile is important. For Tennessee Pride sausage balls, the primary source of carbohydrates is the inclusion of biscuit mix, an essential component of the classic recipe that holds the sausage and cheese together. Several nutritional databases and product listings confirm that different variations of the product, such as the homestyle or cheddar cheese versions, consistently report a total carbohydrate count around 9 grams for a five-piece serving.
The Role of Biscuit Mix and Ingredients
The ingredient list for Odom's Tennessee Pride Sausage Balls includes pork sausage, pasteurized process cheddar cheese, and biscuit mix. The biscuit mix itself is made with enriched wheat flour, which is a significant source of carbohydrates. Other components like dextrose and added sugars also contribute to the final carb count. While the pork sausage and cheese are low-carb, the biscuit mix adds both carbs and bulk to the recipe. For those on a ketogenic or low-carb diet, these ingredients are specifically what make the traditional product unsuitable.
Comparison of Tennessee Pride vs. Low-Carb Alternatives
For many, the appeal of a sausage ball is the convenience and savory flavor. However, the carb load can be a deal-breaker. To help illustrate this, here is a comparison of Tennessee Pride sausage balls against popular low-carb, homemade alternatives.
| Sausage Ball Type | Primary Binder Ingredient | Typical Carb Count | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Pride (5-piece) | Biscuit Mix | 9g Total Carbs | Readily available frozen product. |
| Traditional Homemade | Bisquick (Biscuit Mix) | 9g per 4 balls | High-carb due to the commercial baking mix. |
| Keto Homemade (Almond Flour) | Almond Flour | Approx. 0.5g per ball | Uses a gluten-free, low-carb flour substitute. |
| Keto Homemade (Cream Cheese) | Cream Cheese | Approx. 4g per 4 large balls | Lower carb count from a moist, flavorful binder. |
How to Achieve a Low-Carb Sausage Ball at Home
If the carb count of the frozen version is too high for your dietary goals, it is very simple to create a delicious, low-carb alternative at home. The key is to replace the high-carb biscuit mix with a low-carb flour or binder. Not only does this significantly reduce the carbohydrate content, but it also allows for complete control over all ingredients.
Popular Low-Carb Binder Options
Here are some common substitutes for biscuit mix in a homemade sausage ball recipe:
- Almond Flour: A very popular choice for keto baking due to its mild flavor and texture. It works well to bind the ingredients and create a moist, fluffy sausage ball. Many recipes suggest combining it with shredded cheese and an egg.
- Coconut Flour: A highly absorbent gluten-free flour that works well as a binder. Because of its high absorbency, less is needed compared to almond flour. It can impart a slightly sweeter flavor, so be mindful of your other ingredients.
- Pork Rinds: Finely ground pork rinds (sometimes called 'pork dust') can be used as a breadcrumb substitute. This is a zero-carb option that adds a savory, salty flavor to the sausage balls.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds fat, moisture, and acts as an effective binder in keto recipes, replacing the need for starchy flour.
Other Considerations for Low-Carb Sausage Balls
- Read the Sausage Label: Be cautious of pre-seasoned or processed sausages, as they can sometimes contain added sugars or fillers that increase the carb content. Choose a high-quality, ground breakfast sausage with 1g or less of carbs per serving.
- Adjust Cheese and Seasoning: Use a strong-tasting, shredded cheddar or a combination of cheddar and parmesan for maximum flavor. This reduces the need for extra fillers. You can also add your own blend of spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
For those wondering how many carbs are in Tennessee Pride sausage balls, the answer is clear: a standard serving contains 9 grams, a count driven by the inclusion of biscuit mix. This makes them a high-carb option compared to modern, homemade low-carb alternatives. Whether you're following a specific dietary plan like keto or simply monitoring your carbohydrate intake, understanding the source of those carbs empowers you to make an informed decision. For a lower-carb option, preparing your own sausage balls using alternative binders like almond flour or cream cheese is a straightforward and delicious solution. For more nutritional information on the Odom's brand, you can visit their official website [www.tnpride.com].
