Breakfast Burritos

Introduction

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a hearty breakfast burrito. The combination of fluffy eggs, savory sausage, and crispy hash browns all wrapped in a warm tortilla makes for a delicious start to any day. When I first made these breakfast burritos for my family, the kitchen was filled with mouthwatering aromas that drew everyone in. As the first burrito hit the table, the delighted expressions on my family’s faces said it all. This recipe has since become a weekend staple in our home, offering a comforting, filling meal that fuels us for the busy day ahead.

Ingredients

• Filling:
• 2 Tbsp butter, plus 1 teaspoon divided use
• 1 cup cubed hash brown potatoes (if frozen, thawed)
• 1 small red bell pepper, seeded and finely diced
• 1/2 lb mild pork breakfast sausage
• 1 tsp dark chili powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic salt or plain salt
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper or cayenne (adjust amount to taste)
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Eggs:
• 4 large eggs
• 1 Tbsp sour cream
• Assembly:
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves (additional as needed)
• 4 medium green onions, thinly sliced on the bias
• 4 10-inch flour tortillas, warmed
• 1 Tbsp vegetable oil
• Sour cream and salsa for serving

Instructions

Filling:

1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cubed hash brown potatoes and the diced red bell pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or just until they begin to soften.
3. To the skillet, add the mild pork breakfast sausage, dark chili powder, garlic salt, onion powder, black pepper, and cumin. Mix well to combine. Cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the pork is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet and transfer the mixture to a plate.

Eggs:

4. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and sour cream until fully combined.
5. Add the reserved 1 teaspoon of butter to the skillet and pour in the egg mixture. Cook over medium heat, gently lifting portions with a spatula so uncooked portions flow underneath. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or just until the eggs are set.

Assemble:

6. Divide 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese, sprinkling it down the center of each of the 4 tortillas. Arrange 1/4 cup of spinach leaves over the cheese.
7. Spoon 1/4 of the hash brown-sausage mixture over the spinach, followed by 1/4 of the scrambled eggs. Top with sliced green onions and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
8. Fold the edges over the filling, overlapping slightly. Roll up the tortilla from the bottom to enclose the filling, ending seam side down.
9. Heat vegetable oil in a clean skillet. Brown the burritos over medium-high heat just until lightly golden on both sides, turning for even browning (start seam side down).

Serve immediately with salsa and sour cream, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 420 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Plating:
• Serve the burritos hot, cut in half to showcase the colorful filling.
• Condiments:
• Offer sour cream and salsa on the side for dipping.
• Garnish:
• Sprinkle with additional chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for added flavor and color.

Additional Tips

1. Make it Spicy: For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or use hot sausage instead of mild.
2. Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with black beans or cooked quinoa for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
3. Extra Cheese: Add more cheese in the filling or on top before serving for an even cheesier burrito.
4. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or zucchini.
5. Prep Ahead: The filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making breakfast even quicker.

Recipe Variations

• Southwestern Style: Incorporate corn and black beans into the filling, along with a sprinkle of taco seasoning.
• Greek Twist: Use feta cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes instead of traditional fillings for a Mediterranean flavor.
• Sweet and Savory: Add diced sweet potatoes to the filling for a sweeter flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the breakfast burritos with a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing side.
• Serve alongside crispy hash browns or a green salad for a balanced meal.
• Complement with a smoothie or a cup of coffee for a well-rounded breakfast.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Wrap individual burritos in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Refrigeration: Store any leftover burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use egg whites instead of whole eggs?

• Yes, you can substitute whole eggs with egg whites to reduce cholesterol.

1. Can I use whole wheat tortillas?

• Absolutely! Whole wheat tortillas can add extra fiber and nutrition.

1. How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?

• Avoid overfilling the tortillas and make sure to drain excess grease from the filling before assembling.

1. What can I substitute for sour cream?

• Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can be used as a substitute for sour cream.

1. Can I make these burritos ahead of time?

• Yes! You can prepare the filling and eggs the night before and assemble in the morning.

1. What kind of cheese works best?

• Cheddar cheese is traditional, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack can also be delicious alternatives.

1. Are these burritos gluten-free?

• If using gluten-free tortillas, the burritos can easily be made gluten-free.

1. Can I add salsa directly to the filling?

• Yes, adding a bit of salsa to the filling can enhance the flavor.

1. What if I don’t have fresh vegetables?

• Frozen vegetables can be used as a convenient alternative; just make sure to thaw and drain them well.

1. How do I keep leftovers fresh?
   • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat in the microwave or oven.

Conclusion

These breakfast burritos are not only a hit in our household but also incredibly versatile, allowing for a range of variations to suit different tastes. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, they’re quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. With a little preparation, you can enjoy a hearty and satisfying breakfast that fuels you for the day ahead. Give this recipe a try, and watch as it becomes a favorite in your kitchen, just like it has in mine!

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