Turkey is a staple in many households, whether it’s for a special occasion like Thanksgiving or simply as a source of protein for everyday meals. But how many calories are in a serving of turkey?.

Calories in a Serving of Turkey

The number of calories in a serving of turkey can vary based on a few factors, including the cut of meat and how it is prepared.

Calories in Turkey Breast

A 3-ounce serving of roasted turkey breast without skin contains approximately 135 calories. However, adding the skin increases the calorie count to approximately 160 calories per 3-ounce serving.

If you’re watching your calorie intake, it’s best to remove the skin before preparing your turkey.

Calories in Dark Meat Turkey

Dark meat turkey, such as the thighs and legs, contains more fat than white meat. As a result, a 3-ounce serving of roasted dark meat turkey with skin contains approximately 170 calories.

Removing the skin decreases the calorie count to approximately 140 calories per 3-ounce serving.

Calories in Ground Turkey

Ground turkey is a popular alternative to ground beef for those seeking a lower-fat option. A 3-ounce serving of cooked ground turkey contains approximately 170 calories.

However, the calorie count can increase if the ground turkey is prepared with added fat, such as oil or butter.

Calories in Turkey Sausage

Turkey sausage is another alternative to traditional pork sausage for those seeking a lower-fat breakfast option. However, like ground turkey, the calorie count can vary based on how it’s prepared.

A 2-ounce serving of cooked turkey sausage contains approximately 100 calories. To keep the calorie count in check, choose turkey sausage that is labeled “low-fat” or “lean.”.

Calories in a Turkey Sandwich

A typical turkey sandwich made with sliced turkey breast on whole wheat bread can range from 250 to 400 calories, depending on the type and amount of bread used, as well as any added toppings such as cheese or mayonnaise.

Factors That Affect the Calorie Count

In addition to the cut of meat and how it’s prepared, there are a few other factors that can affect the calorie count of a serving of turkey. These include:.

Added fats such as oil or butter used during cooking
Sauces or gravies
Stuffing or breading
Serving size

Conclusion

Turkey can be a healthy and low-calorie protein option when prepared properly. By choosing lean cuts of meat and removing the skin, you can keep the calorie count in check while still enjoying the delicious taste of turkey.