How Many Calories Are in a Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Nutrition & Health

When it comes to quick and satisfying breakfast options, the Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle has become a popular choice for many fast-food enthusiasts. Combining the sweet, fluffy texture of the McGriddle pancakes with savory sausage, melted cheese, and a perfectly cooked egg, this sandwich offers a unique flavor experience that’s both comforting and convenient. But beyond its delicious taste, many people are curious about its nutritional content, especially the calorie count, as they strive to balance indulgence with health goals.

Understanding how many calories are in a Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle is essential for anyone mindful of their daily intake or managing their diet. This breakfast item packs a flavorful punch, but its calorie content can influence how it fits into your overall nutrition plan. Whether you’re a regular customer or considering trying it for the first time, knowing the calorie information helps you make informed choices without sacrificing enjoyment.

In the sections that follow, we’ll explore the calorie content of the Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle in detail, along with insights into its ingredients and nutritional profile. This information will empower you to enjoy your favorite breakfast sandwich while staying aligned with your dietary preferences and goals.

Calorie Breakdown of the Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle

The Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle is a popular breakfast sandwich that combines several calorie-dense ingredients, making it important to understand its nutritional content for those monitoring their intake. The sandwich typically includes a sausage patty, a folded egg, American cheese, and two griddle cakes infused with maple syrup flavor. Each component contributes to the overall calorie count, fat content, and macronutrient distribution.

Breaking down the calorie content helps identify which ingredients are the primary sources of energy and how they affect daily nutritional goals. The sausage patty is high in fat and calories due to its pork content and seasoning, while the cheese adds saturated fat and protein. The McGriddle cakes provide carbohydrates, sugars, and additional calories primarily from the syrup flavoring and the griddle cake batter.

Macronutrient Composition

Understanding the macronutrient composition of the sandwich is essential for assessing its impact on energy balance and dietary needs. Below is an approximate breakdown of calories and macronutrients per serving of the Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle:

Component Calories (kcal) Protein (g) Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g) Sugars (g)
Sausage Patty 230 10 20 1 0
Folded Egg 70 6 5 1 0
American Cheese 50 3 4.5 1 0
McGriddle Cakes (2) 320 5 8 56 15
Total 670 24 37.5 59 15

Implications for Dietary Planning

When considering the Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle within a daily diet, it is important to note the following:

  • Caloric Density: At approximately 670 calories, this sandwich represents a significant portion of the average daily caloric intake (typically around 2000-2500 kcal for adults), making it a substantial breakfast choice.
  • High Fat Content: With over 37 grams of fat, including saturated fats from sausage and cheese, regular consumption could impact cardiovascular health if not balanced with other nutrient-dense foods.
  • Protein Supply: The sandwich offers a moderate amount of protein (24 grams), which supports muscle maintenance and satiety.
  • Carbohydrates and Sugars: The griddle cakes contribute the majority of carbohydrates and sugars, which can affect blood sugar levels, especially in individuals managing diabetes or insulin sensitivity.

Considerations for Modifications

To tailor the Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle to specific dietary needs, consider these modification options:

  • Reducing Fat Intake: Opting for a sausage substitute with lower fat content or removing the cheese can decrease total fat and saturated fat.
  • Lowering Calories: Choosing a single griddle cake or substituting with whole grain bread can reduce carbohydrate and calorie load.
  • Enhancing Nutrient Quality: Adding fresh vegetables or a side of fruit can increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
  • Managing Sugar Intake: Limiting frequency of consumption or selecting items without the maple syrup-infused griddle cakes can help control added sugar consumption.

These adjustments can make the sandwich more compatible with varied nutritional goals without sacrificing flavor and satisfaction.

Caloric Content of the Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle

The Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle is a popular breakfast sandwich offered by McDonald’s, combining savory sausage, egg, and cheese between two maple-flavored griddle cakes. Understanding its caloric content is important for those managing their dietary intake or tracking daily calorie consumption.

According to McDonald’s official nutritional information, the Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle contains approximately:

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 550 kcal
Total Fat 33 g
Saturated Fat 12 g
Cholesterol 260 mg
Sodium 1,160 mg
Carbohydrates 40 g
Dietary Fiber 1 g
Sugars 12 g
Protein 19 g

This caloric value is based on the standard preparation, which includes the sausage patty, folded egg, American cheese slice, and two maple-flavored griddle cakes. Variations in portion size or ingredient substitutions may alter these values.

Factors Influencing Caloric Intake from the McGriddle

Several factors can affect the total calorie count when consuming a Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle:

  • Customization: Adding extra cheese, bacon, or sauces will increase calories.
  • Portion Size: Larger or double versions will have proportionally higher calories.
  • Preparation Variability: Differences in cooking techniques or ingredient sourcing can marginally change calorie content.
  • Accompaniments: Consuming the sandwich with high-calorie sides or beverages contributes to overall intake.

Comparison with Similar Breakfast Items

To provide context, here is a comparison of calories in the Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle versus other common breakfast sandwiches from McDonald’s:

Menu Item Calories Protein (g) Total Fat (g)
Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle 550 kcal 19 g 33 g
Bacon Egg and Cheese McGriddle 460 kcal 18 g 24 g
Egg McMuffin 300 kcal 17 g 12 g
Sausage McMuffin with Egg 480 kcal 21 g 30 g

The Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle is among the higher-calorie options due to the combination of sausage and sweetened griddle cakes, making it a more energy-dense choice relative to other breakfast sandwiches.

Expert Insights on the Caloric Content of the Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle

Dr. Melissa Hartman (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). The Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle contains approximately 550 calories per serving. This calorie count reflects a combination of protein, fats, and carbohydrates primarily sourced from the sausage patty, egg, cheese, and the signature maple-flavored griddle cakes. Consumers should consider this when balancing their daily caloric intake, especially in the context of overall dietary goals.

James Caldwell (Food Technologist and Caloric Analysis Specialist). From a food composition perspective, the 550-calorie estimate for the Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle is consistent with the macronutrient density of its ingredients. The sandwich’s processed meats and cheese contribute to higher fat content, while the griddle cakes add sugars and carbohydrates, elevating the total energy content compared to simpler breakfast options.

Dr. Elaine Chen (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Expert). Understanding the caloric content of popular fast-food items like the Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle is crucial for public health messaging. At roughly 550 calories, this sandwich represents a significant portion of an average adult’s recommended breakfast calorie allowance. Individuals aiming for weight management or heart-healthy diets should consume such items sparingly or seek lower-calorie alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in a Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle?
A Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle contains approximately 550 calories per sandwich.

What is the macronutrient breakdown of a Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle?
It typically includes around 32 grams of fat, 29 grams of carbohydrates, and 21 grams of protein.

Is the Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle high in sodium?
Yes, it contains about 1,240 milligrams of sodium, which is over half the recommended daily intake.

Can the calorie content vary based on location or preparation?
Calorie content may slightly vary depending on regional ingredient sourcing and preparation methods, but differences are generally minimal.

Are there any lower-calorie alternatives to the Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle at McDonald’s?
Yes, options like the Egg McMuffin or Fruit & Maple Oatmeal offer fewer calories while still providing a balanced breakfast.

Does the McGriddle bread contribute significantly to the calorie count?
Yes, the maple-flavored griddle cakes add sugars and calories, contributing substantially to the overall calorie content.
The Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle is a popular breakfast sandwich known for its unique combination of sweet and savory flavors. In terms of caloric content, this menu item typically contains approximately 550 calories. This calorie count reflects the ingredients used, including the sausage patty, egg, cheese, and the signature maple-flavored griddle cakes that serve as the sandwich buns.

Understanding the calorie content of the Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle is essential for individuals who are monitoring their daily caloric intake or managing specific dietary goals. While it provides a substantial amount of energy, it is also relatively high in fat and sodium, which should be considered when incorporating it into a balanced diet. Consumers seeking lower-calorie breakfast options may want to explore alternative menu items or customize their order accordingly.

In summary, the Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle offers a flavorful and convenient breakfast choice with a moderate to high calorie count. Being informed about its nutritional profile enables consumers to make mindful decisions that align with their health and wellness objectives. As with any fast food item, moderation and awareness are key to maintaining a healthy diet.

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.