How Many Weight Watchers Points Does Italian Sausage Have?

As someone who loves Italian food, I was curious how many Weight Watchers points Italian sausage contains Sausage is so flavorful, especially in classic dishes like pasta bolognese, lasagna and sausage subs But as a Weight Watchers member, I know I need to keep an eye on points, especially from higher fat and sodium foods like sausage.

In this article, I’ll share what I learned about Weight Watchers points for different types of Italian sausage. I’ll also give tips for enjoying sausage on the Weight Watchers program.

The Basics of Weight Watchers Points

First, a quick overview of how Weight Watchers points work

The latest Weight Watchers program is called PersonalPoints. Foods are given a SmartPoints value based on calories, saturated fat, sugar and protein. You get a personalized daily SmartPoints budget to spend however you want. There are zero point foods too.

Some main things to know:

• Points are calculated per serving size. Larger portions mean more points.

• Ingredients like oils, dressings and cheeses add points quickly.

• Food high in fat and sodium carry more points.

• Lean proteins like chicken breast are lower points.

• Fruits, veggies and plain proteins are zero points.

So where does Italian sausage fall in the points spectrum? Let’s find out!

Weight Watchers Points for Raw Italian Sausage

If you buy raw Italian sausage links or ground sausage, here are the general point ranges per serving:

• 2 oz raw Italian sausage (about 1 link): 5-7 points
• 4 oz raw (2 links or 1/4 lb): 10-14 points
• 1 lb raw Italian sausage: 40-56 points

As you can see, sausage packs a hefty point punch! The variability in the ranges comes down to factors like:

• Fat content (higher fat means more points)
• Added ingredients like cheese or wine (add extra points)
• Brand (some are leaner than others)

On average, expect about 7 points per 2 oz raw Italian sausage. Check your brand’s packaging for specifics.

Points for Cooked Italian Sausage

When sausage is cooked, it loses a bit of fat but concentrates the flavors. Here are typical SmartPoints:

• 2 oz cooked crumbled Italian sausage: 4-6 points
• 1 grilled Italian sausage link: 5-7 points
• 4 oz cooked Italian sausage: 8-12 points

The preparation method matters too. Grilling, broiling or poaching are lower in fat and points than pan frying in oil.

Tips for Enjoying Sausage on Weight Watchers

Here are some tips for working Italian sausage into your Weight Watchers plan:

• Use it sparingly for flavor. Just an ounce or two adds lots of taste.

• Swap half the sausage for mushrooms to cut points in half.

• Pair with zero point veggies like peppers, onions and greens.

• Skip the added cheese and oil. These quickly drive up points.

• Opt for turkey Italian sausage to save a point or two per serving.

• Divide a casing into mini links for bite-sized lower point portions.

• Plan a couple higher point meals each week to enjoy foods like sausage without overdoing it.

• Add bites of sausage to salads or pizza instead of having it as a main.

• Track your points to pinpoint your ideal sausage portions for weight loss.

Best Low Point Italian Sausage Recipes

Here are some tasty Italian sausage recipes that keep points in check:

Sausage Pepper Sheet Pan

• 1 lb Italian turkey sausage (about 14 points)
• Bell peppers and onion (0 points)
• 1 tsp olive oil (0 points)

Total: 14 points

Roast Italian sausage with veggies on a sheet pan for a fast, simple dinner.

Sausage Spinach Soup

• 2 oz Italian sausage (6 points)
• Bagged spinach (0 points)
• Diced tomatoes (0 points)
• 1 cup chicken broth (0 points)

Total: 6 points

Saute a little sausage to flavor this hearty spinach soup.

Italian Wedding Soup

• 2 oz Italian sausage (6 points)
• Bagged mixed greens (0 points)
• Chicken broth (0 points)
• 1/2 cup pastina pasta (3 points)

Total: 9 points

Mini meatballs and spinach make this classic soup filling.

Sausage Mushroom Pizza

• 1 oz Italian sausage, crumbled (3 points)
• Sliced mushrooms (0 points)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (6 points)
• Store bought crust (6 points)

Total: 15 points

A little sausage and veggie toppings cuts calories on this homemade pizza.

Sausage Egg Muffins

• 1 Italian chicken sausage link (5 points)
• 2 eggs (0 points)
• 2 oz shredded cheese (6 points)

Total: 11 points

Grab and go breakfast sandwiches are a handy meal for busy mornings.

The Bottom Line

So how many points is Italian sausage on Weight Watchers? Raw links or ground sausage average about 5-7 points per 2 oz serving. When cooked, that drops to 4-6 points for a 2 oz portion.

While high in fat and sodium, Italian sausage can fit into a healthy eating plan in moderation. Just be mindful of your portions. Limit added oils, cheese and carbs to control calories at meals.

With smart choices, you can enjoy the big flavor of Italian sausage while still losing weight on Weight Watchers. A little sausage goes a long way, so savor every tasty bite!