If you’re looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing breakfast that’s both comforting and delicious, Breakfast Enchiladas are the way to go. These enchiladas are loaded with scrambled eggs, sausage, cheese, and flavorful seasonings, then topped with a creamy sauce and baked to perfection. They’re ideal for lazy weekends, brunch gatherings, or even meal prepping for busy mornings.
This dish combines the comforting flavors of classic breakfast ingredients with the bold, savory appeal of enchiladas. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe and all the ways you can customize it for your family and friends!
Why Breakfast Enchiladas Are Amazing
- Versatile: You can easily adapt the filling with your favorite breakfast staples—bacon, veggies, or even vegetarian options.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for serving a group, these enchiladas will have everyone asking for the recipe.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the night before and bake in the morning for a no-fuss breakfast.
- Rich and Satisfying: Packed with protein, cheese, and a creamy topping, it’s guaranteed to keep you full and happy.
Ingredients
For the Enchiladas:
- 8–10 large flour tortillas
- 8 large eggs (scrambled)
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (crumbled and cooked)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- ½ cup green onions (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
For Topping:
- ½ cup diced tomatoes (or salsa)
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sour cream
- Extra shredded cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
- Crack the eggs into a bowl, whisk them with a pinch of salt, and scramble them in a non-stick pan. Remove from heat and mix with the cooked sausage.
- Stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and diced tomatoes (if using). This filling is the heart of your enchiladas!
Step 2: Assemble the Enchiladas
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Add a generous scoop of the egg and sausage filling down the center of the tortilla.
- Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking to combine. Let the mixture thicken slightly, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cheese, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the enchiladas, ensuring each one is covered.
Step 4: Bake
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top of the enchiladas.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Top with diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream for the ultimate finishing touch.
- Serve with a side of salsa, guacamole, or even a fruit salad for a complete breakfast spread.
Tips for Perfect Breakfast Enchiladas
- Warm the Tortillas: Microwave the tortillas for a few seconds before assembling to make them easier to roll.
- Double the Sauce: If you love extra creamy enchiladas, double the sauce recipe for more coverage.
- Customize the Filling: Add sautéed peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach to sneak in some veggies.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
Flavor Profiles
These enchiladas are a delightful fusion of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. The richness of the sauce and cheese balances beautifully with the spiced sausage and fluffy scrambled eggs. Every bite is satisfying and packed with bold breakfast flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- For Brunch: Serve with a side of hash browns or roasted potatoes.
- For Dinner: Pair with a light salad or roasted vegetables.
- As a Potluck Dish: These enchiladas hold up well for parties and can be reheated easily.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Prepare in Advance: Assemble the enchiladas the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Add the sauce right before baking.
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual portions in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for a quick breakfast.
Custom Variations
- Vegetarian: Replace the sausage with sautéed vegetables like peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the filling.
- Low-Carb: Use low-carb tortillas and skip the flour in the sauce.
- Southwest Style: Add black beans and corn to the filling for a Tex-Mex twist.
Leftover Ideas
- Breakfast Bowl: Chop up leftover enchiladas and serve over rice or quinoa with extra toppings.
- Tortilla Soup Starter: Use the enchiladas as a flavorful base for a quick tortilla soup.
- Enchilada Wraps: Wrap the filling in lettuce leaves for a lighter snack.
Regional Background
Breakfast enchiladas are inspired by the classic Mexican dish but tailored to fit the flavors of a hearty American breakfast. This fusion brings together traditional tortillas and enchilada-style sauces with breakfast staples like eggs, sausage, and cheese. It’s a comforting nod to both cuisines.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
- For Brunch: Serve with mimosas or a sparkling white wine like Prosecco.
- For Non-Alcoholic Options: Try fresh orange juice or a spicy Bloody Mary mocktail.
- For Coffee Lovers: A strong cup of black coffee or a latte complements the richness of the enchiladas.
FAQs
1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes! Corn tortillas work well, but make sure to warm them first to prevent cracking during assembly.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use plant-based milk and cheese, and skip the heavy cream in favor of a cashew cream sauce.
3. Can I use bacon instead of sausage?
Definitely! Crumbled bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that works beautifully in this recipe.