Southern Breakfast Enchiladas With Sausage Gravy

Introduction

When I first tried Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. As a lover of hearty, comforting meals, this dish combined all my favorite breakfast elements—scrambled eggs, sausage gravy, crispy tater tots, and melty cheese—wrapped up in soft flour tortillas. It’s a dish that’s perfect for those cozy weekend mornings when you want to indulge in something filling and flavorful.

The combination of spicy jalapeno, creamy gravy, and the rich flavors of breakfast sausage creates a beautiful harmony that is sure to satisfy even the hungriest family. The tater tots add a delightful crunch, making each bite a perfect balance of textures. My family couldn’t stop raving about this dish, and it has since become a staple in our breakfast rotation. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, special occasions, or just a lazy Saturday morning, these Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy will undoubtedly leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy:

• 1 lb ground breakfast sausage (cooked and crumbled)
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1 minced jalapeno (for a subtle kick)
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening the gravy)
• 2 3/4 cups milk (for a creamy sauce)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 10 large eggs (scrambled)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking the eggs)
• 2 cups cooked tater tots (for crispy texture)
• 1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese (for spice)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for rich flavor)
• 10 fajita-size flour tortillas (to wrap the delicious filling)

This combination of ingredients brings together a rich, savory base with a creamy, cheesy topping. The kick from the jalapeno adds a subtle but pleasant heat that doesn’t overwhelm the flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family breakfast or for guests, these ingredients will create a dish that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy:

1. Brown the sausage:

• In a large nonstick pan, cook the ground sausage over medium-high heat. Crumble it as it cooks to ensure it cooks evenly and breaks into small pieces.

1. Add onion and jalapeno:

• When the sausage is about halfway cooked, add the diced onion and minced jalapeno. Continue cooking until the sausage is fully cooked and the vegetables have softened.

1. Set aside a portion:

• Remove 1 cup of the sausage, onion, and jalapeno mixture with a slotted spoon and set it aside for later.

1. Make the sausage gravy:

• Return the skillet to the heat and sprinkle the flour over the remaining sausage mixture. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.

1. Whisk in the milk:

• Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens, then remove from heat.

1. Preheat the oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for the enchiladas.

1. Scramble the eggs:

• In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt. Melt butter in a nonstick pan and scramble the eggs over medium heat. Remove them from the pan when they are still slightly undercooked as they will continue cooking in the oven.

1. Prepare the filling:

• In a medium bowl, combine the reserved sausage mixture with the cooked tater tots, scrambled eggs, and half of the shredded Pepper Jack and cheddar cheese. Mix everything together.

1. Assemble the enchiladas:

• Lay out the fajita-size tortillas and spoon about 1/2 cup of the filling down the center of each one. Roll them up and place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.

1. Top with sausage gravy and cheese:

• Pour the sausage gravy over the rolled tortillas, covering them completely. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.

1. Bake the enchiladas:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the enchiladas are bubbly and golden on top.

1. Serve and enjoy:

• Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy this decadent, flavorful breakfast!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Here is an approximate breakdown of the nutrition for each serving, assuming the recipe makes 6 servings:

• Serving Size: 1/6 of the recipe
• Calories: 500 kcal
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 180mg

These values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient choices and serving sizes. This dish is rich in flavor and satisfying, providing a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

This recipe is fairly quick for how indulgent it is. The prep time includes browning the sausage, cooking the vegetables, scrambling the eggs, and assembling the enchiladas. The bake time ensures everything is heated through and the cheese is melted perfectly.

How to Serve

This Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy is best served hot and fresh. Here are some ideas for how to enjoy it:

• For a Family Breakfast: Serve these enchiladas with a side of fresh fruit or crispy hash browns for a well-rounded breakfast.
• For Special Occasions: Serve for brunch or at a holiday gathering. These enchiladas are guaranteed to be a hit with guests, especially when paired with a fresh pot of coffee or mimosas.
• With a Fresh Salad: If you want a lighter option, serve with a side of mixed greens or a tangy tomato salad to balance the richness of the dish.
• With Avocado: Add slices of fresh avocado on the side for extra creaminess and a burst of flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Customize the Spice: If you prefer a spicier dish, add more jalapeno or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sausage mixture.
2. Make It Lighter: Use turkey sausage and low-fat cheese for a lighter version of the dish while keeping the flavor intact.
3. Prep Ahead: You can assemble the enchiladas the night before and bake them the next morning, making it a convenient option for busy mornings.
4. Use Homemade Tortillas: If you have the time, use homemade tortillas for an extra touch of authenticity and flavor.
5. Top with Fresh Cilantro: Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added burst of freshness.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with crumbled tofu or tempeh, and add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
• Spicy Sausage Version: Use spicy Italian sausage for a bold, fiery flavor.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based sausage, dairy-free cheese, and non-dairy milk to make this dish completely vegan.
• Add More Veggies: You can add any vegetables of your choice to the filling. Mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers work great in this recipe.
• Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or even cream cheese for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• With Salsa: Serve with a side of fresh salsa or pico de gallo for a tangy contrast to the rich gravy.
• With Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream on top to cool down the spiciness and add extra creaminess.
• For Dessert: End the meal with a light dessert like fruit salad or cinnamon rolls.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These enchiladas freeze beautifully! Once assembled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, ensuring the enchiladas are heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the enchiladas the night before and refrigerate them. Just bake them the next day.
2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free flour tortillas and check the sausage for gluten-free certification to make it gluten-free.
3. Can I use a different meat for the sausage?
   Yes, ground turkey or chicken sausage would work well as a lighter alternative.
4. Can I add more cheese?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add more cheese for extra cheesiness.
5. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
6. Can I use frozen tater tots?
   Yes, frozen tater tots work perfectly for this recipe.
7. How long should I bake the enchiladas?
   Bake the enchiladas for 30-40 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
8. Can I make these enchiladas without eggs?
   You can skip the eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu for a vegan version.
9. What kind of cheese should I use?
   Pepper Jack and cheddar cheese work wonderfully, but you can experiment with different cheeses based on your preferences.
10. Can I freeze the leftover sausage gravy?
    Yes, you can freeze the sausage gravy for later use.

Conclusion

These Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy are a true indulgence—perfect for any breakfast or brunch gathering. With hearty sausage, creamy gravy, and cheesy goodness, they offer a delightful twist on traditional enchiladas. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a lazy weekend morning with family, this dish is sure to bring comfort and satisfaction to your table. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy every bite!

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