There’s nothing quite like the smell of someone’s cooking wafting through the air on a lazy Sunday morning. The first time I tried Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy, I was immediately transported to a cozy kitchen filled with laughter and warmth. Picture this: perfectly rolled tortillas embraced by a savory blend of sausage and creamy eggs, all drizzled with rich, indulgent gravy. It’s a heartwarming twist that marries the comforting essence of Southern cuisine with bold Tex-Mex flair.
What I adore about this recipe is its versatility—you can easily customize it to suit any palate. Whether you’re feeling adventurous with spicy jalapeños or opting for a meatless version, the possibilities are endless. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a special family breakfast, these enchiladas are not just a meal; they’re an experience. So grab your apron and let’s bring some southern charm to your table with this delightful dish!
Why are Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy irresistible?
Comforting Warmth: This dish wraps you in a cozy embrace, making it perfect for lazy mornings or special brunches.
Flavorful Fusion: The marriage of Southern and Tex-Mex flavors creates a unique taste sensation that will leave everyone craving more.
Endless Customization: From meatless options to spicy variations, you can easily tailor these enchiladas to fit any dietary preference or mood.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe saves you time without sacrificing flavor or flair.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a family breakfast or a gathering with friends, these enchiladas are sure to impress and delight everyone at the table.
Let’s dive in and savor these delightful flavors together!
Southern Breakfast Enchiladas Ingredients
For the Enchiladas
• Tortillas – Choose your favorite; swap with gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free option.
• Sausage – Adds a savory boost; replace with mushrooms or a plant-based sausage for a meatless version.
• Eggs – Provide richness; egg substitutes work well for catering to vegan preferences.
• Cheese – Delivers creaminess; consider doubling the cheese or using a vegan alternative for variations.
• Creamy Gravy – The heart of the dish; combine milk (or vegan options) and flour for perfect texture.
• Hash Browns – Introduces delightful texture; precook for optimal crispness in your Southern Breakfast Enchiladas.
Optional Add-Ins
• Bell Peppers – Add sautéed veggies for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Jalapeños – Spice things up with diced jalapeños for a flavorful kick.
• Cayenne Pepper – Customize the heat levels to your taste with a dash of cayenne.
• Zucchini – For a low-carb twist, use roasted zucchini slices instead of tortillas.
These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not just a meal but a warm memory waiting to be made. Enjoy the journey of cooking and the joy of indulging in Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy!
How to Make Southern Breakfast Enchiladas
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lightly coating it with cooking spray or butter. This ensures your enchiladas won’t stick and will come out beautifully.
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Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside the cooked sausage, allowing the flavorful drippings to remain in the skillet for the gravy.
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Create the creamy gravy by melting 3 tablespoons of butter in the skillet over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour and stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until it’s lightly golden, then slowly add 2 cups of milk, stirring until smooth and thickened.
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Whisk together 6 eggs in a bowl, then fold in the cooked sausage and 1 cup of cheese, mixing well to combine these hearty ingredients.
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Lay each tortilla flat and fill with about ¼ cup of the sausage-egg-cheese mixture. Roll them up tightly, placing them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
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Pour the creamy gravy generously over the filled tortillas and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. This luscious layer is what brings the magic to your Southern Breakfast Enchiladas.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting warmth that fills your kitchen!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for a delightful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy?
Delight in creating a full brunch experience that tantalizes every taste bud and warms the heart.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing sweetness that balances the rich flavors.
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Southern-Style Biscuits: Fluffy and buttery, these biscuits are perfect for soaking up the creamy gravy, enhancing every bite.
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Crispy Hash Browns: Perfectly golden and crunchy, they provide the ideal textural contrast to the soft enchiladas, appealing to all senses.
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Spicy Salsa: A side of vibrant salsa infuses each bite with zing, complementing the savory sausage and layered flavors.
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Mimosas: A glass of bubbly mimosas adds a celebratory touch, making your brunch feel extra special and festive.
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Savory Grits: Creamy grits serve as a hearty side, enriching the meal while contributing to the comforting Southern theme.
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Breakfast Smoothies: A cool, fruity smoothie is a quick, refreshing addition that perfectly offsets the richness of the enchiladas.
Let your imagination run wild and create the perfect feast around these Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy!
Tips for the Best Southern Breakfast Enchiladas
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Egg Beating: Ensure eggs are beaten until pale to achieve a fluffier texture in your Southern Breakfast Enchiladas.
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Pre-cook Hash Browns: For optimal texture, slightly crisp your hash browns before adding them to the dish, ensuring they enhance every bite.
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Spicing It Up: If you love some heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for a delightful kick.
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Tight Rolling: Wrap your enchiladas firmly to keep the filling secure during baking, preventing any spills and ensuring a beautiful presentation.
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Gravy Consistency: Aim for a velvety gravy by whisking constantly and adjusting milk quantity as needed for the perfect thickness.
Make Ahead Options
These Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy are perfect for busy mornings and meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance, covering them tightly with plastic wrap in the baking dish to prevent drying. If you wish to prepare them even further ahead, consider freezing the unbaked enchiladas for up to 3 months; simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Just remember to keep the gravy separate until you’re ready to cook, as it helps maintain the best texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, pour the gravy over the enchiladas and bake as directed for a comforting breakfast that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made!
Southern Breakfast Enchiladas Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Southern Breakfast Enchiladas to your heart’s desire!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas to enjoy this delicious dish without worrying about gluten. It opens up the recipe to everyone at the table!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or a blend of your favorite veggies for a hearty, meatless option. This variation bursts with flavor and freshness, making it perfect for all palates.
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Extra Cheesy: Double the cheese for a gooey, cheesy goodness that melts beautifully in every bite. Who could resist a little extra indulgence?
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper in the filling to spice things up. The heat complements the creamy gravy perfectly, elevating the flavor profile.
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Low-Carb Twist: Replace tortillas with roasted zucchini slices for a low-carb, veggie-packed alternative. This twist maintains the essence of the dish while keeping it light.
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Bacon Option: Swap out sausage for crispy bacon or turkey bacon for a smoky flavor. This variation adds a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall texture of your enchiladas.
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Creamy Avocado: Top your enchiladas with a sprinkle of fresh avocado or a drizzle of creamy avocado sauce before serving. This bright addition adds a lovely creaminess and freshness.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the egg filling for a burst of freshness. This simple add-in enhances that home-cooked feel and elevates the dish’s vibrancy.
Let your imagination run wild and enjoy the journey of customizing these mouthwatering Southern Breakfast Enchiladas!
How to Store and Freeze Southern Breakfast Enchiladas
Fridge: Store leftover Southern Breakfast Enchiladas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for best texture.
Freezer: Assemble enchiladas without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking to enjoy a freshly cooked meal.
Reheating: For optimal results, reheat baked enchiladas in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbling and heated thoroughly. Avoid microwaving to keep the tortillas from getting soggy.
Wrapping: When storing, ensure all layers are covered to prevent drying out and keep those flavors intact.
Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy Recipe FAQs
What type of tortillas should I use for Southern Breakfast Enchiladas?
You can use traditional flour tortillas for a classic taste, but I recommend gluten-free tortillas if anyone has dietary restrictions. They hold up beautifully in this recipe, allowing everyone to enjoy the warm, comforting flavors.
How should I store leftover Southern Breakfast Enchiladas?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to indulge again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes for the best texture. This way, you ensure they regain their delightful creamy goodness without becoming soggy.
Can I freeze Southern Breakfast Enchiladas?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the enchiladas but don’t bake them. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes until bubbly. This method keeps the flavors intact and delivers that freshly baked experience.
What if my gravy is too thick?
If you find your gravy has thickened too much, fear not! Simply whisk in a bit more milk over low heat until you reach the desired consistency. It’s a quick fix that ensures your gravy remains smooth and luscious. Also, you can adjust the thickness during cooking by adding more flour slowly if that’s your preference in the future.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe is incredibly adaptable. You can easily make it gluten-free by using suitable tortillas, and for a meatless option, opt for plant-based sausage or extra veggies like mushrooms and spinach. If you’re catering to vegan diets, substitute eggs with egg replacer and use dairy-free cheese and milk.
How can I customize the spice level of my enchiladas?
If you love a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the sausage-egg-cheese mixture before rolling the tortillas. Start with a little, taste, and build up to your preferred spice level; remember, you can always add more heat, but it’s tricky to take it away! Enjoy experimenting!
Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Savory Sausage Gravy Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by lightly coating it with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside the cooked sausage.
- Create the creamy gravy by melting 3 tablespoons of butter in the skillet, whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour for about 1-2 minutes, then slowly add 2 cups of milk, stirring until smooth.
- Whisk together 6 eggs in a bowl, then fold in the cooked sausage and 1 cup of cheese.
- Lay each tortilla flat and fill with about ¼ cup of the sausage-egg-cheese mixture, then roll them up tightly.
- Pour the creamy gravy generously over the filled tortillas and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve hot and enjoy!