How Much Protein is in One Frozen Sausage Patty?

November 25, 2025 •

3 min read

Did you know that the protein in a single frozen sausage patty can range significantly, with most commercial pork patties providing between 6 and 8 grams? This variance depends heavily on the brand, meat type, and overall formulation of the product.

Quick Summary

The protein in a frozen sausage patty varies significantly by brand, type of meat, and formulation. Typical pork patties provide 6-8 grams, while options like turkey or plant-based varieties differ.

Key Points

Varying Protein Content: The protein in a frozen sausage patty ranges from approximately 6 to 11 grams, with the specific amount depending on the brand and meat type.
Pork vs. Turkey: Traditional pork sausage patties often contain 6-8 grams of protein, while leaner turkey patties can offer similar protein levels but with less fat.
Plant-Based Options: Plant-based patties, such as those from Beyond Meat, can provide a higher protein content, with some containing up to 11 grams per patty.
Freezing Does Not Alter Protein: Freezing does not negatively impact the nutritional integrity or protein content of a sausage patty, provided it was frozen correctly.
Check the Label: For the most accurate nutritional information, always refer to the specific product's nutritional label, as protein can vary based on the meat-to-fat ratio and additives.
Boost Your Breakfast: To increase your protein intake, combine your sausage patty with other high-protein foods like eggs, Greek yogurt, or cheese.

A frozen sausage patty's protein content is not a universal constant; it varies by brand, meat type, and processing. Understanding these differences can help you make a more informed decision for your breakfast and dietary needs. A typical commercial pork sausage patty generally offers between 6 and 8 grams of protein per serving, but specific nutrition labels are the most reliable source for accurate information. For those seeking higher protein or leaner options, turkey and plant-based alternatives can provide a different nutritional profile, sometimes with higher protein levels per patty.

Protein Content by Patty Type

The amount of protein found in a frozen sausage patty is primarily determined by its ingredients. Whether it's made from pork, turkey, or a plant-based alternative will have a significant impact on its nutritional value.

Pork Sausage Patties

Pork is the traditional choice for sausage patties. These products often have a higher fat content, which can affect the protein-to-calorie ratio. For example:

Jimmy Dean Fully Cooked Original Pork Patties: A single patty provides 8 grams of protein.
Great Value Fully Cooked Original Pork Patties: These patties contain 6 grams of protein per serving.

Turkey Sausage Patties

Turkey sausage is a popular alternative for those looking to reduce their fat intake. It is typically leaner than its pork counterpart, which can sometimes result in a higher protein concentration by weight.

Jimmy Dean Fully Cooked Turkey Sausage Patties: These patties offer 8 grams of protein per serving, the same as their pork version but often with less fat.

Plant-Based Sausage Patties

Plant-based protein sources are becoming increasingly common. Companies like Beyond Meat have created patties that offer a complete protein alternative to meat.

Beyond Breakfast Sausage Classic Patties: These provide an impressive 11 grams of protein per patty, making them a high-protein breakfast option. Find out more about their ingredients here: Beyond Meat breakfast sausage patties.

Factors Influencing Protein in Sausage Patties

Several factors contribute to the final protein count of a frozen sausage patty:

Meat-to-Fat Ratio: The proportion of lean meat to fat is a key determinant. Leaner patties will generally have more protein per ounce.
Fillers and Additives: Some commercial sausages contain fillers like breadcrumbs or soy protein, which can alter the overall protein density. Ingredients such as phosphates may also be used to improve texture.
Processing: How the sausage is manufactured and what ingredients are added during processing will impact the final nutritional profile. For instance, inulin or lupin-kernel fibre can be added to reduce fat, while keeping protein levels similar.

Fresh vs. Frozen: Is There a Difference?

For most intents and purposes, the nutritional value of a frozen sausage patty is virtually identical to its fresh counterpart, provided it was frozen properly. Freezing is a preservation method that stops nutritional degradation. While some water loss can occur during thawing and cooking, the protein content itself is not significantly affected by the freezing process. The primary nutritional differences will stem from the initial formulation and not whether it was frozen.

How to Maximize Protein in Your Breakfast

If you're aiming for a higher-protein breakfast, a single sausage patty may not be enough. Here are a few easy ways to boost your morning protein intake:

Pair your patty with eggs or egg whites.
Serve the patty alongside a side of cottage cheese or Greek yogurt.
Add a slice of cheese to your sausage patty breakfast sandwich.
Incorporate other protein-rich ingredients like legumes or nuts into your meal.

Comparison of Popular Frozen Sausage Patties


Brand	Meat Type	Protein (g)	Calories	Fat (g)
Jimmy Dean	Pork	8g	150	14g
Jimmy Dean	Turkey	8g	100	4.5g
Great Value	Pork	6g	200	19g
Beyond Meat	Plant-Based	11g	170	11g
Johnsonville	Pork	6g	150	14g

Note: Nutritional information can vary. Always check the specific product label.

Conclusion

The protein content in one frozen sausage patty typically ranges from 6 to 11 grams, depending on the brand and whether it's made from pork, turkey, or plant-based ingredients. While most standard pork patties fall in the 6-8 gram range, turkey and plant-based options can provide similar or higher protein levels. For a truly high-protein breakfast, consider pairing your sausage patty with other protein sources like eggs or cheese. Always remember to check the nutritional label of the specific product you purchase to get the most accurate information.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, freezing a sausage patty does not reduce its protein content. Freezing is a preservation method that stops nutrient degradation, so the protein level remains the same as when it was frozen.

Not necessarily. While turkey patties are often leaner, the protein count can be similar to pork patties. For example, some Jimmy Dean pork and turkey patties both contain 8 grams of protein.

The protein content in plant-based patties varies by brand. For instance, a Beyond Breakfast Sausage Classic Patty contains 11 grams of protein, making it a competitive high-protein option.

Yes, fillers can affect the protein density. Some additives, such as breadcrumbs or soy, can reduce the overall meat content, potentially lowering the protein per serving compared to a patty with less filler.

The initial protein content per serving size will be similar, but some moisture and potentially some protein can be lost during the cooking process. The nutritional label accounts for the cooked product.

Brands like Beyond Meat offer a high-protein plant-based patty with 11 grams of protein. Among meat options, brands like Jimmy Dean offer patties with 8 grams of protein.

The most accurate information is always found on the nutritional label of the specific product packaging, as content can vary between brands and product lines.