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ground italian sausage.

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ALSO KNOWN AS

minced italian sausageitalian sausage meatitalian sausage crumbles

Recipes with ground italian sausage + Add to pantry

SERVING

CALORIES

346

PROTEIN

14.3g

CARBS

1.8g

FAT

31.2g

FIBER

NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g

Everything in this ingredient.

MACRONUTRIENTS

Calories346kcal—

Protein14.3g29%

Carbohydrates1.8g1%

Fiber0g0%

Sugar1.1g2%

Total fat31.2g40%

Saturated fat11.2g56%

Trans fat0.10g—

Cholesterol72mg24%

Water51.5g—

MINERALS

Sodium780mg34%

Potassium245mg5%

Calcium15mg1%

Iron1.2mg7%

Magnesium16mg4%

Phosphorus145mg12%

Zinc2.1mg19%

Copper0.07mg8%

Manganese0.02mg1%

Selenium18.5µg34%

VITAMINS

Vitamin A0µg0%

Vitamin C0.50mg1%

Vitamin D0.80µg4%

Vitamin E0.20mg1%

Vitamin K0µg0%

Thiamin (B1)0.52mg43%

Riboflavin (B2)0.21mg16%

Niacin (B3)4.2mg26%

Pantothenic acid (B5)0.65mg13%

Vitamin B60.32mg19%

Folate (B9)4.0µg1%

Vitamin B120.90µg38%

%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.

MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS

How much is what.

1 cup230g

1 tablespoon14g

1 oz28.4g

1 lb453.6g

HEALTH BENEFITS

Why eat it.

✓Rich source of complete protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
✓Provides significant amounts of B vitamins, particularly B12 for nerve function and niacin for energy metabolism.
✓Good source of essential minerals like selenium, an antioxidant that supports immune health, and zinc, crucial for cell growth.
✓Contains iron, which is vital for oxygen transport in the blood and preventing anemia.

COOKING TIPS

In the kitchen.

1When browning, use a skillet over medium-high heat and break the sausage into small crumbles with a spoon or spatula for even cooking.
2Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the sausage browns and caramelizes rather than steams, which develops a deeper flavor.
3Drain excess grease after browning for a leaner final dish, or reserve a small amount of the flavorful rendered fat to sauté vegetables.
4The primary seasoning is fennel seed, which gives Italian sausage its characteristic flavor. It pairs well with garlic, onions, bell peppers, and tomato-based sauces.

STORAGE

Keep it fresh.

Store fresh, raw ground sausage in the coldest part of your refrigerator (at or below 40°F / 4°C) and use within 1-2 days of purchase.
For longer storage, freeze the sausage in airtight freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Is ground Italian sausage healthy?

Ground Italian sausage is a good source of complete protein, essential B vitamins (like B12 and niacin), and minerals such as iron, zinc, and selenium, which support muscle health, energy, and immunity. However, it is high in calories and saturated fat (31.2g fat per 100g), so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

What are the nutritional values of ground Italian sausage?

Per 100 grams, ground Italian sausage typically contains approximately 346 calories, 14.3 grams of protein, 1.8 grams of carbohydrates, and 31.2 grams of fat. It also provides essential micronutrients like B vitamins, iron, and zinc.

Is ground Italian sausage good for weight loss?

Due to its high calorie and fat content (346 calories and 31.2g fat per 100g), ground Italian sausage is generally not considered ideal for weight loss when consumed in large portions. While it provides satiating protein, moderation is key, and leaner protein sources might be preferred for calorie-restricted diets.

Is ground Italian sausage gluten-free?

Most ground Italian sausage is naturally gluten-free, as it's primarily made from pork, spices, and sometimes water. However, it's crucial to check the ingredient label, as some brands may use fillers or additives containing gluten, especially in pre-seasoned or pre-packaged varieties.

Is ground Italian sausage keto-friendly?

Yes, ground Italian sausage is generally very keto-friendly. With only about 1.8 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams and a high fat content (31.2g), it fits well into a ketogenic diet, providing both fat and protein. Always check labels for added sugars or high-carb fillers.

How do you cook ground Italian sausage?

To cook ground Italian sausage, crumble it into a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring and breaking it up with a spoon, until it's browned and cooked through, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat before using it in your recipe.

What dishes can I make with ground Italian sausage?

Ground Italian sausage is incredibly versatile. It's excellent in pasta sauces, lasagna, stuffed peppers or mushrooms, and as a pizza topping. It can also be used in soups, stews, frittatas, or as a flavorful addition to breakfast scrambles.

How should I store ground Italian sausage?

Uncooked ground Italian sausage should be stored in its original packaging in the coldest part of your refrigerator and used by the "sell-by" date. Once cooked, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

How long does ground Italian sausage last in the refrigerator or freezer?

Fresh, uncooked ground Italian sausage lasts 1-2 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, it can be frozen for 2-3 months. Cooked ground Italian sausage can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2-3 months.

What is the difference between mild and hot Italian sausage?

The primary difference between mild and hot Italian sausage lies in the seasoning. Both typically contain fennel and other Italian spices, but hot Italian sausage includes red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a noticeable spicy kick, while mild varieties omit or minimize the heat.

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