Southern Breakfast Enchiladas Recipe

Introduction

Southern Breakfast Enchiladas combine the bold flavors of Tex-Mex with hearty breakfast staples to create a savory, comforting dish perfect for any time of day. These enchiladas are filled with a delicious combination of scrambled eggs, sausage, cheese, and a rich, flavorful sauce. The dish offers the best of both worlds, providing a satisfying, filling meal with a delightful kick from the enchilada sauce.

Whether you’re looking to spice up your weekend brunch, feed a crowd, or simply enjoy a delicious breakfast for dinner, Southern Breakfast Enchiladas are the perfect solution. This recipe combines traditional Southern ingredients with the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine to create a truly unique and mouthwatering dish. This guide walks you through every step, from preparation to serving, and offers tips for making this recipe your own.

Why You’ll Love Southern Breakfast Enchiladas

• Bold and Flavorful: The combination of scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese wrapped in soft tortillas and topped with a tangy enchilada sauce creates a flavor explosion with every bite. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and savory goodness.
• Comforting and Hearty: Packed with protein from the sausage and eggs, and rich cheese, these enchiladas make for a satisfying and filling meal that will keep you energized all day long. The dish has a comforting, homestyle feel perfect for breakfast or brunch.
• Versatile and Customizable: This recipe is easily adaptable to suit your tastes. You can switch up the protein, add different vegetables, or choose a spicier enchilada sauce. Whether you like it mild or extra hot, there are endless ways to customize these enchiladas.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, making a special breakfast for your family, or preparing a meal for a holiday gathering, Southern Breakfast Enchiladas are sure to impress. They’re also a great option for meal prep or make-ahead breakfasts.
• Simple Yet Satisfying: While they may seem complex, Southern Breakfast Enchiladas come together fairly easily. With a few key ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that’s both simple and satisfying.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 22-25g
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
• Protein: 18-20g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 3-4g

Ingredients

For the Southern Breakfast Enchiladas:

• 10 small flour tortillas
• 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
• Sour cream, for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all the ingredients you’ll need for the dish. Dice the onion and bell pepper (if using). Shred the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them with the milk, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Set everything aside, as this will make assembling the dish easier.

2. Cook the Sausage and Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook the sausage until it is browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and translucent. This will help bring out the natural sweetness of the onions and peppers. If you prefer, you can skip the vegetables or use other veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes.

3. Scramble the Eggs

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and pour in the whisked eggs. Scramble the eggs gently, stirring constantly, until they are just set and still slightly soft. Be careful not to overcook the eggs, as they will continue to cook in the oven once the enchiladas are assembled.

Once the eggs are scrambled, add the cooked sausage and sautéed vegetables back into the skillet and mix everything together. This will form the filling for your enchiladas.

4. Assemble the Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Next, warm the tortillas in the microwave or on a dry skillet for a few seconds until they are soft and pliable. This will prevent the tortillas from tearing when you roll them.

Spoon a generous amount of the sausage and egg mixture into the center of each tortilla, then sprinkle with a bit of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Roll up the tortillas tightly, securing the filling inside, and place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

5. Top with Enchilada Sauce and Cheese

Once all the enchiladas are in the baking dish, pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the top of the tortillas. You can use mild or spicy enchilada sauce, depending on your preference. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the sauce, making sure to cover the enchiladas completely.

6. Bake the Enchiladas

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the enchiladas for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is hot. The edges of the tortillas should be slightly crispy, and the enchiladas should be cooked through. If you prefer a golden-brown top, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning the cheese.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once the enchiladas are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve with a dollop of sour cream on the side. These enchiladas are delicious on their own, but they also pair perfectly with a side of fresh salsa or guacamole.

Tips for Perfect Southern Breakfast Enchiladas

• Use Fresh, Soft Tortillas: For the best texture, use fresh, soft flour tortillas. If the tortillas are too firm or stale, they might crack when rolling the enchiladas. Warm them up slightly before using them to prevent this issue.
• Don’t Overcook the Eggs: Since the scrambled eggs will cook further in the oven, it’s important not to overcook them in the skillet. They should still be slightly soft and creamy when you add them to the filling.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to customize the filling by adding your favorite breakfast ingredients. Some great additions include cooked bacon, shredded potatoes, or sautéed spinach. You can even add a dash of hot sauce or jalapeños for extra heat.
• Make-Ahead Option: These enchiladas can be made ahead of time for convenience. Simply assemble the enchiladas, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove them from the fridge, top with sauce and cheese, and bake as directed.
• Cheese Options: While cheddar and Monterey Jack are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like pepper jack, Colby, or a blend of your favorites.

Variations of Southern Breakfast Enchiladas

• Vegetarian Breakfast Enchiladas: For a vegetarian twist, skip the sausage and fill the enchiladas with a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, spinach, and mushrooms. You can also add black beans or refried beans for extra protein and flavor.
• Breakfast Enchiladas with Bacon: Instead of sausage, use crispy bacon for a different flavor profile. The smoky, salty taste of bacon pairs wonderfully with the cheesy, egg-filled enchiladas.
• Spicy Breakfast Enchiladas: For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a few teaspoons of hot sauce to the filling. You can also use a spicy enchilada sauce or add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper on top for an extra kick.
• Egg White Breakfast Enchiladas: For a lighter version, use egg whites instead of whole eggs. This reduces the fat content but still offers plenty of protein. Combine with turkey sausage or tofu for a healthier filling.

Storage and Shelf Life

Southern Breakfast Enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the enchiladas in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through.

If you have leftover enchiladas, they also freeze well. To freeze, wrap the individual enchiladas or the entire baking dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until fully heated.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Southern Breakfast Enchiladas

Pair your Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with some delicious sides for a complete meal:

• Fresh Salsa or Guacamole: The tanginess of salsa and the creaminess of guacamole provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy enchiladas. Serve them on the side for dipping.
• Crispy Hash Browns: A classic breakfast side, crispy hash browns are the perfect addition to this hearty meal. The crispy potatoes add a satisfying crunch and are the perfect balance to the soft enchiladas.
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad made with berries, citrus, and melons adds a light, refreshing element to balance out the richness of the enchiladas.
• Refried Beans: Serve a side of warm refried beans to round out the dish and add a bit of extra protein. You can use traditional refried beans or make them from scratch with pinto beans.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the enchiladas while adding a fresh, crisp element to the meal.

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Conclusion

Southern Breakfast Enchiladas are a delightful, filling dish that brings together the best of Southern and Tex-Mex cuisines. With their savory sausage, scrambled eggs, cheese, and flavorful sauce, these enchiladas are sure to become a family favorite. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this recipe is versatile, customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Try it out for your next meal and enjoy a comforting, delicious dish that will please everyone at the table!