Cheesy Breakfast Enchiladas
📌 Overview
- Prep Time: 20–25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 enchiladas (serves 4–6)
- Skill Level: Easy to Moderate
- Great for: Breakfast, Brunch, Meal Prep, Potlucks
Ingredients
For the Enchiladas:
- 8 small to medium flour tortillas
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage or bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 6 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup green onions, chopped
- 1 small bell pepper, diced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups milk
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or cheese blend)
Toppings (Optional):
- Sour cream
- Salsa or hot sauce
- Avocado slices
- Fresh cilantro
- Jalapeño slices
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Medium saucepan
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
- In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage (or bacon) until browned and crumbly. Drain excess grease and set aside.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, ¼ cup milk, salt, and pepper. Scramble in the same skillet until just set (slightly undercooked). Remove from heat.
- Combine scrambled eggs, cooked sausage, bell pepper, green onions, and 1 cup mixed cheese in a large bowl. Mix gently.
2. Assemble the Enchiladas
- Spoon about â…“ cup of the filling into each tortilla, roll it up, and place seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a roux; cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in 1½ cups milk, cooking until thickened (2–3 minutes).
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in 1½ cups cheese until smooth and melted.
4. Bake
- Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the enchiladas in the dish.
- Top with extra cheese if desired.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.
5. Garnish & Serve
Let cool slightly before serving. Top with your choice of sour cream, salsa, avocado, or cilantro.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Assemble enchiladas the night before, refrigerate covered, and bake the next morning (add 5–10 mins to baking time).
- Freeze unbaked enchiladas for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking or bake from frozen (add 15–20 minutes more).
Serving Suggestion
Serve with a fresh fruit salad, crispy hash browns, and mimosas or coffee for a complete brunch.
On a lazy Sunday morning, I remember the first time I made breakfast enchiladas for my friends. I filled each tortilla with fluffy scrambled eggs, spicy chorizo, and cheese. The smell in the kitchen was amazing.
This dish became a favorite in my home. It impresses guests and suits many tastes, making it great for any event. So, get ready to learn how to make the best enchilada recipe for your brunch.
Key Takeaways
- Breakfast enchiladas are versatile and customizable.
- This recipe combines traditional Mexican flavors with a breakfast twist.
- Perfect for gatherings or leisurely weekend brunches.
- It’s an easy, delicious recipe that anyone can make.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- You can adapt the fillings to suit your preferences.
Introduction to Breakfast Enchiladas
Breakfast enchiladas are a hit for their mix of flavors and flexible ingredients. They feature rolled tortillas filled with eggs, cheese, and toppings, all in a rich sauce. This dish is not only satisfying but also versatile, making it great for any time.
What Are Breakfast Enchiladas?
At their heart, breakfast enchiladas are tortillas filled with eggs, cheese, and sometimes veggies or meats. They’re covered in a tasty sauce that makes every bite a hearty start to your day.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is special because it’s so adaptable. I can change it up with what I have or how I’m feeling. Plus, it’s a make-ahead recipe, perfect for busy mornings or surprise guests.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Breakfast enchiladas are perfect for any time. They’re great for brunch with friends, a special holiday breakfast, or a weeknight dinner. They’re easy to make and can be prepared ahead, so I always have something delicious to offer.
Ingredients Needed for Breakfast Enchiladas
To make tasty breakfast enchiladas, you need the right ingredients. These ingredients add flavor and make the dish great for meal prep. Having everything ready in your kitchen lets you make this casserole whenever you want.
Essential Ingredients
The main ingredients for breakfast enchiladas are:
- Corn tortillas
- Eggs
- Cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
- Your choice of sauce (green or red enchilada sauce)
Optional Add-Ins
For extra flavor and texture, try adding:
- Diced bell peppers
- Cooked sausage
- Black beans
Suggested Spice Options
Spices can really boost the taste. I suggest using:
- Cumin
- Chili powder
- Paprika
With these ingredients, making a breakfast casserole recipe is fun and full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the best enchilada recipe at home is fun. It starts with the filling. Just follow a few easy steps to make your breakfast enchiladas tasty and fulfilling.
Preparing the Filling
Start by scrambling eggs in a skillet. Add mix-ins like spinach, bell peppers, or cooked sausage if you like. Don’t overcook the eggs. They’ll cook more when baked.
For the best flavor, aim for a soft, slightly underdone texture.
Assembling the Enchiladas
Place a soft tortilla flat on your work surface. Put a big scoop of egg filling in the middle. Sprinkle some cheese on top for extra richness.
Roll up the tortilla, tucking in the sides. Place it seam-side down in a baking dish. Keep doing this until all tortillas are filled and arranged neatly.
Baking to Perfection
After assembling, pour your favorite sauce over each enchilada. Make sure they’re all covered. Add a layer of cheese on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
Bake in a preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. This step turns your ingredients into a delicious dish that will wow everyone.
Tips for the Best Breakfast Enchiladas
Creating the perfect breakfast enchiladas needs a few insider tips. I’ve gathered some of my best practices. They ensure you get mouthwatering results every time.
Using Fresh Ingredients
Always choose fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh veggies like bell peppers and onions, along with farm-fresh eggs, boost your dish’s flavor. The taste difference is clear and elevates your dish.
Customizing Your Recipe
Breakfast enchiladas are super versatile. You can customize your recipe to your liking. Add chorizo or jalapeños for spice, or go for a vegetarian version with spinach or mushrooms. The options are endless, making these enchiladas perfect for everyone!
Making It Ahead of Time
Preparing breakfast ahead can make mornings easier. I often make a double batch of my breakfast enchiladas to freeze for busy mornings. They’re great for breakfast meal prep ideas. Just reheat them in the microwave or oven for a quick, tasty meal when you’re in a rush.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making delicious breakfast enchiladas, some mistakes can ruin the dish. Knowing these common errors can help you make a better meal. Here are the main issues to avoid.
Overstuffing the Enchiladas
One common mistake is stuffing the enchiladas too much. Too much filling can make them burst open while cooking. It’s best to fill them just right, so they stay together and don’t spill.
Try to fill them enough to make a satisfying meal. But not so much that they fall apart.
Skipping the Sauce
Another mistake is not using sauce. Sauce is key to keeping the enchiladas moist and flavorful. It makes every bite of your breakfast enchiladas a delight.
Don’t skip the sauce. It can make a big difference in your meal’s taste and texture.
Not Preheating the Oven
Lastly, always preheat your oven before baking. Skipping this step can cause uneven cooking. This can ruin the texture and quality of your enchiladas.
A preheated oven ensures even cooking. This makes your dish perfectly baked and very satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
When you enjoy breakfast enchiladas with eggs, choosing the right sides and drinks makes a big difference. A well-presented dish not only looks good but also tastes better.
Ideal Side Dishes
Adding fresh sides to your breakfast enchiladas makes the meal complete. Here are some great options:
- Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or melons
- A mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette
- Homemade avocado salsa for an extra kick
Beverage Pairings
My top picks for drinks are:
- A rich cup of coffee to wake you up
- Freshly squeezed juice for a refreshing touch
- A mimosa to add a celebratory feel on special occasions
Presentation Ideas
How you plate your enchiladas can really make a difference. Serve them in stylish dishes, topped with:
- Chopped cilantro for a splash of color
- Dollops of sour cream for creaminess
- Avocado slices to enhance texture and flavor
Storing and Reheating Enchiladas
Enjoying breakfast enchiladas is a treat. Storing leftovers right keeps the taste fresh for later. Here are some easy tips to keep your enchiladas delicious and ready to eat.
How to Store Leftovers
Put leftover enchiladas in an airtight container. They stay good in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps them from getting soggy and losing flavor. It’s great to have a tasty meal ready when you need it.
Reheating Tips
For reheating, add a bit more sauce on top. This keeps them moist, whether you microwave or bake. Baking at 350°F for 15-20 minutes is best. It makes your breakfast casserole taste fresh again.
Freezing for Future Meals
Freezing assembled enchiladas is a smart way to prep ahead. Wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking. This way, you get great flavors for future meals.
Healthier Alternatives
In my search for healthy breakfasts, I found many options that meet different needs without losing taste. Here are some ways to make your breakfast enchiladas both healthy and tasty.
Low-Calorie Ingredient Swaps
To make your breakfast enchiladas lighter, try using egg whites instead of whole eggs. This change cuts calories but keeps the protein. Using low-fat cheese also helps make your breakfast healthier without losing that cheesy flavor we all love.
Vegetarian Breakfast Enchiladas
For a meat-free meal, vegetarian breakfast enchiladas are a great pick. Fill them with beans, spinach, and mushrooms for more flavor and nutrients. You get a mix of protein, vitamins, and minerals for a balanced breakfast.
Gluten-Free Options
For those avoiding gluten, corn tortillas are a great choice instead of flour tortillas. They offer a perfect base for an authentic enchilada taste. These gluten-free options let everyone enjoy a filling breakfast without dietary worries.
| Ingredient | Standard Option | Healthier Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Eggs | Whole Eggs | Egg Whites |
| Cheese | Regular Cheese | Low-Fat Cheese |
| Tortillas | Flour Tortillas | Corn Tortillas |
| Meat | Ground Beef | Beans |
These changes let you enjoy my favorite breakfast enchiladas while meeting health goals. Trying these alternatives can lead to tasty and healthy breakfasts.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
This Breakfast Enchiladas Recipe is truly special. It’s versatile and full of flavor. You can make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients.
Try making this recipe at home. Feel free to add your own twist. It could become a beloved family tradition.
I’d love to hear about your cooking adventures. Share your favorite ingredients and how you make the dish your own. Let’s enjoy cooking together!
