Finding sausage that tastes great without all the sodium can feel like searching for a unicorn. High blood pressure runs in my family, so I’m always on the lookout for lower sodium options that don’t sacrifice flavor. It’s a challenge, but there are some surprisingly tasty sausages out there that won’t send your sodium levels through the roof. This list brings together a handful of brands that I’ve found enjoyable.
Product Overview / Quick Summary:
- Jones Dairy Farm All Natural Light Breakfast Sausage: Great taste and texture, good for breakfast patties.
- Aidells Chicken & Apple Sausage: A flavorful option with a touch of sweetness.
- Trader Joe’s Chicken Sausage, Mild Italian: Versatile and flavorful, perfect for pasta or grilling.
- Applegate Organics Chicken & Apple Sausage: Organic option with a sweet and savory flavor.
- Wellshire Farms Sugar-Free Smoked Sausage: A classic sausage flavor with no added sugar and lower sodium.
Top 5 Best Low Sodium Sausage Reviews
1. Jones Dairy Farm All Natural Light Breakfast Sausage
Jones Dairy Farm’s All Natural Light Breakfast Sausage is a solid choice if you’re craving that classic breakfast sausage flavor without the sodium overload. They use simple ingredients, and the taste is surprisingly good for a reduced-sodium sausage.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent flavor and texture for a low-sodium option.
- ✅ All-natural ingredients.
- ✅ Perfect for breakfast patties or crumbles.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a little dry if overcooked.
- ❌ Some may find the flavor slightly bland compared to regular sausage.
- ❌ Availability can be limited depending on your location.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a healthier breakfast sausage that still delivers on taste, Jones Dairy Farm’s All Natural Light Breakfast Sausage is a great option.
2. Aidells Chicken & Apple Sausage
Aidells Chicken & Apple Sausage is a step up in flavor complexity. The combination of chicken and apple gives it a slightly sweet and savory taste that’s really enjoyable. I like to grill these or slice them up into a frittata.
Pros:
- ✅ Delicious sweet and savory flavor combination.
- ✅ Versatile – great for grilling, pan-frying, or adding to dishes.
- ✅ Made with chicken, which is leaner than pork.
Cons:
- ❌ Not the lowest sodium option on this list, but still lower than many traditional sausages.
- ❌ Some may find the apple flavor too sweet.
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey compared to other sausages.
Verdict: If you enjoy a sweeter sausage and don’t mind a slightly higher sodium content, Aidells Chicken & Apple Sausage is a flavorful and satisfying choice.
3. Trader Joe’s Chicken Sausage, Mild Italian
Trader Joe’s Chicken Sausage, Mild Italian is my go-to for a quick and easy weeknight meal. It’s incredibly versatile; I throw it in pasta, on pizza, or just grill it up with some veggies. The flavor is mild but still has that classic Italian sausage taste.
Pros:
- ✅ Great flavor, perfect for Italian-inspired dishes.
- ✅ Relatively low in sodium compared to traditional Italian sausage.
- ✅ Affordable, especially compared to other specialty sausages.
Cons:
- ❌ Only available at Trader Joe’s.
- ❌ Some may find the flavor too mild.
- ❌ Can be a bit greasy if not cooked properly.
Verdict: If you’re a Trader Joe’s shopper and looking for a versatile and affordable low-sodium sausage, their Mild Italian Chicken Sausage is a winner.
4. Applegate Organics Chicken & Apple Sausage
Applegate Organics Chicken & Apple Sausage is similar to the Aidells version, but with the added benefit of being organic. This one is great if you are trying to avoid preservatives and other additives.
Pros:
- ✅ Organic and made with natural ingredients.
- ✅ Delicious sweet and savory flavor.
- ✅ Good source of protein.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than non-organic options.
- ❌ Similar to Aidells, the sodium content is not the absolute lowest.
- ❌ Some may not prefer the texture of chicken sausage.
Verdict: For those prioritizing organic options with a good balance of flavor and health benefits, Applegate Organics Chicken & Apple Sausage is a solid choice.
5. Wellshire Farms Sugar-Free Smoked Sausage
Wellshire Farms Sugar-Free Smoked Sausage provides a classic smoked sausage flavor without added sugar and with reduced sodium. This is a nice option if you want the “real” sausage experience but need to be mindful of both sugar and salt.
Pros:
- ✅ Classic smoked sausage flavor.
- ✅ No added sugar.
- ✅ Lower sodium than traditional smoked sausages.
Cons:
- ❌ Texture can be a little tougher than other sausages.
- ❌ Some may find the flavor slightly less intense than traditional smoked sausages.
- ❌ Availability may be limited.
Verdict: If you’re craving a classic smoked sausage flavor without the added sugar and with less sodium, Wellshire Farms Sugar-Free Smoked Sausage is worth trying.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right low-sodium sausage can be tricky. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Sodium Content: Obviously, check the nutrition label! Compare different brands and varieties to find the lowest sodium option. Aim for sausages with less than 300mg of sodium per serving.
- Ingredients: Look for sausages made with natural ingredients and minimal additives. Avoid sausages with artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
- Flavor: Low sodium doesn’t have to mean low flavor. Experiment with different flavors like chicken & apple, Italian, or smoked to find what you enjoy.
- Meat Type: Chicken and turkey sausages are generally leaner than pork sausages, which can contribute to overall health benefits.
- Brand Reputation: Choose brands known for quality and transparency in their sourcing and manufacturing processes.
- Read Reviews: See what other people are saying about the taste and texture of the sausage before you buy it. Online reviews can be a great resource.
FAQs
Q: What makes a sausage “low sodium”?
A: A sausage is generally considered low sodium if it contains less than 140mg of sodium per serving. However, many sausages marketed as “low sodium” may have slightly higher amounts, so always check the nutrition label.
Q: Can I freeze low-sodium sausage?
A: Yes, most sausages can be frozen. Wrap them tightly in freezer-safe packaging to prevent freezer burn. They can typically be stored in the freezer for 1-2 months without significant quality loss.
Q: How can I cook low-sodium sausage?
A: Low-sodium sausage can be cooked in many ways, including grilling, pan-frying, baking, or boiling. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Q: Does low-sodium sausage taste different from regular sausage?
A: It can. Sodium enhances flavor, so low-sodium sausages might taste slightly less salty or flavorful than traditional sausages. However, many brands use herbs, spices, and other ingredients to compensate for the lack of sodium.
Conclusion
Finding a great low-sodium sausage that you enjoy might take a little trial and error. Taste is subjective, but hopefully, this list gives you a solid starting point. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands and flavors until you find your favorite. Prioritizing lower sodium options is a simple way to make a positive impact on your health without sacrificing enjoyment.
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
