Understanding the Calorie Count in Bob Evans’ Sausage Gravy

Bob Evans is a popular American chain restaurant known for its hearty breakfast offerings. One of their most beloved menu items is the sausage gravy, which can be ordered as a standalone side or used to top entrees like biscuits. But with America facing an obesity epidemic, more diners are paying attention to calorie counts. So how many calories are actually in Bob Evans’ sausage gravy? Let’s take a closer look.

Breaking Down the Nutrition Facts

According to the Bob Evans website, a standard cup serving of their sausage gravy contains approximately 240 calories. The majority of these calories, around 140, come from fat content.

Specifically, one cup of Bob Evans sausage gravy contains 16 grams of total fat 9 of these grams are saturated fat, which is considered the unhealthier type of fat There is also 20 milligrams of cholesterol.

In terms of other nutrients, a single cup serving of sausage gravy from Bob Evans provides 820 milligrams of sodium, which is over 30% of the recommended daily value. There are 14 grams of carbohydrates, but no fiber. You’ll also get 8 grams of protein per cup.

• 140 calories from fat
• 16 grams total fat
• 9 grams saturated fat
• 20 milligrams cholesterol
• 820 milligrams sodium
• 14 grams carbohydrates
• 0 grams fiber
• 8 grams protein

How the Gravy is Made

To understand why Bob Evans’ sausage gravy is so high in calories and fat, it helps to look at how it’s produced. The gravy starts with a simple roux made from all-purpose flour and butter. Pork sausage is then cooked and crumbled, releasing its fat into the gravy. Milk is also added to the mixture, along with salt, black pepper, and other seasonings.

The combination of fatty sausage butter and whole milk gives the gravy its indulgent taste and texture. But those ingredients also drive up the fat and calorie content substantially. In fact, butter and whole milk are two of the most calorie-dense foods around.

So while the gravy tastes rich and delicious, all that fat and dairy comes at a nutritional cost. Just a single cup clocks in at 240 calories with over half those calories coming directly from fat.

Serving Size Matters

It’s important to note that the nutrition information above is based on Bob Evans’ standard cup serving size. If you eat a larger portion, the calorie and fat tallies will go up accordingly.

For example, Bob Evans also offers a bowl option for the sausage gravy, which contains roughly 2.5 cups. That bowl would have about 600 calories total and 350 calories from fat.

The takeaway is to pay close attention to serving sizes whenever you dine out. Nutrition labels are usually calculated for a restaurant’s standard portions. Consuming larger amounts means you’ll get higher levels of calories, fat, sodium, and other nutrients.

Tips for Lightening Up Your Gravy

Bob Evans’ sausage gravy is a guilty pleasure for many breakfast lovers. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to enjoy the taste while limiting the calorie impact:

• Ask for a half order or side portion of gravy instead of a full cup. You’ll cut calories in half.

• Use the gravy as a sauce or topping instead of a standalone side. Drizzle it over a vegetable omelet or whole grain biscuit.

• Skip the biscuits and opt for a lower carb base like turkey sausage patties or egg whites.

• Replace some of the milk with lower fat unsweetened almond milk.

• Boost fiber by adding sautéed mushrooms, onions, or spinach to the gravy.

• Request your gravy be made with reduced sodium sausage.

• Balance out the richness with fresh fruit on the side.

The Bottom Line

Bob Evans’ sausage gravy is a timeless favorite thanks to its savory, creamy flavor. But the classic recipe also packs a caloric punch if you’re not careful with portions. A single cup serving equates to 240 calories, with over half from fat. To lighten up, ask for a smaller size, use it as a sauce instead of a side, or dilute with lower fat milk. With some adjustments, you can still enjoy Bob Evans’ gravy without overdoing it on calories or fat.