Irresistible Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy
Discover the rich flavors of Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy, a hearty and delicious morning meal that combines creamy sausage gravy with perfectly wrapped enchiladas filled with eggs, cheese, and Southern spices. This dish is a comforting blend of classic Southern breakfast ingredients with a fun, twisty presentation that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weekend brunch or a flavorful weekday boost, these enchiladas deliver warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein and rich flavors that keep you full all morning long.
- Comfort Food Classic: Combines beloved Southern sausage gravy with enchiladas for a unique twist.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh eggs to create an impressive breakfast with ease.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with different cheeses, spices, and add-ins to suit any taste.
- Perfect for Feeding a Crowd: Great for family gatherings and brunch parties, making mornings extra special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe features simple but essential ingredients that come together to create a deliciously textured and flavorful breakfast. Each component plays a crucial role—from the rich sausage gravy that smothers the enchiladas, to the creamy eggs and cheese inside that provide texture and depth.
- Ground sausage: Provides the hearty, savory base for the gravy with bold Southern flavor.
- All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the sausage gravy to a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Milk: Adds richness and balances the spices in the gravy.
- Large eggs: The scrambled eggs add protein and a fluffy texture inside the enchiladas.
- Flour tortillas: Soft yet sturdy wraps that hold all the fillings without falling apart.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully inside the enchiladas for a gooey surprise.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential to season both gravy and eggs perfectly.
- Optional spices: Like smoked paprika or cayenne, to add a little kick if you prefer.
Variations for Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy
Feel free to put your own spin on this dish! Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy easily adapts to different tastes, dietary needs, and what you have on hand. Here are a few tasty ideas to make it your own.
- Vegetarian swap: Replace sausage with seasoned mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a meat-free option.
- Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the eggs or gravy for a fiery kick.
- Cheese variety: Experiment with pepper jack or gouda for different cheese flavors and melt textures.
- Herb infusion: Fresh chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top add freshness and color.
- Low-carb option: Use low-carb tortillas or wrap fillings in cooked cabbage leaves for a light twist.
How to Make Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by browning the ground sausage in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and crumbled, about 7-8 minutes. This step builds the flavorful base for your sausage gravy, so be sure to break the meat apart evenly.
Step 2: Make the Sausage Gravy
Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the cooked sausage in the pan and stir for about 1-2 minutes until the flour is fully absorbed and toasty. Slowly add milk while whisking continuously, cooking until the mixture thickens to your preferred gravy consistency. Season with salt and pepper, adjusting for taste and any extra spices.
Step 3: Prepare the Eggs
In a separate pan, scramble the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper until soft and fluffy. Avoid overcooking to keep the eggs creamy — this will give a softer texture inside the enchiladas.
Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas
Warm your flour tortillas until flexible. Lay each tortilla flat, spoon a generous portion of scrambled eggs and shredded cheddar cheese down the center, then roll it up tightly. Place the filled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish all snug together.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Pour the hot sausage gravy evenly over the assembled enchiladas, making sure each one gets a good coating. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top. Serve immediately to enjoy the savory aroma and melty cheese.
Pro Tips for Making Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy
- Use fresh sausage: For the best flavor, choose quality pork sausage with balanced seasoning.
- Don’t rush the gravy: Whisk milk gradually and cook until thick but smooth to avoid lumps.
- Warm your tortillas: Heat tortillas before assembling to prevent cracking or tearing.
- Customize cheese: Mixing cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack can add depth to the filling.
- Leftover magic: These enchiladas reheat well, making them perfect for meal prep or brunch leftovers.
How to Serve Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro add color and a bright contrast to the creamy gravy. A dollop of sour cream or sliced avocado can also enhance texture and richness.
Side Dishes
Pair the enchiladas with crispy breakfast potatoes, fresh fruit salad, or a simple side of sautéed greens for a balanced meal. Southern-style biscuits or toasted bread can also be served to mop up the gravy.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual enchiladas rolled on plates with different colored garnishes for a vibrant presentation. You can also layer them in a casserole dish for a shareable main course at brunch gatherings, making the meal feel festive and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover enchiladas covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual enchiladas in foil and place in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave on medium power until warm. Add a little extra gravy or cheese on top before reheating to keep them moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I make Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas the night before, cover them with gravy, and refrigerate until ready to bake the next morning.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
By using gluten-free flour or a substitute in the gravy and gluten-free tortillas, this recipe can be adapted for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I substitute the sausage with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken sausage, or vegetarian alternatives work well; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What type of cheese works best for this dish?
Sharp cheddar is traditional, but mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a cheese blend melt beautifully and complement the gravy well.
How spicy is this recipe by default?
This dish is mild by nature but can easily be made spicy by adding cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or jalapeños.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the cozy, satisfying taste of Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy to start your day on a high note. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless customization options, it’s a breakfast that feels special anytime you want to impress yourself or loved ones. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become your new go-to comfort breakfast you’ll crave again and again.
PrintSouthern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy
Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy is a hearty and comforting breakfast dish combining creamy, rich sausage gravy poured over soft flour tortillas filled with fluffy scrambled eggs, melted cheddar cheese, and classic Southern spices. Perfect for brunch or a satisfying start to your day, this recipe balances protein and flavor with an easy-to-make presentation that pleases any crowd.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with substitutions)
Ingredients
Sausage Gravy
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for adaptation)
- 2 ½ cups milk
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: smoked paprika or cayenne pepper, to taste
Enchiladas Filling
- 6 large eggs
- Salt, a pinch
- Black pepper, a pinch
- 8 flour tortillas (use gluten-free tortillas for adaptation)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or preferred cheese variety)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Brown the ground sausage in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and crumbled, about 7-8 minutes. Break the meat apart evenly to create a flavorful base for the gravy.
- Make the Sausage Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage and stir for 1-2 minutes until absorbed and slightly toasted. Slowly whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices to taste.
- Prepare the Eggs: In a separate pan, scramble the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper until soft and fluffy, avoiding overcooking to maintain creaminess inside the enchiladas.
- Assemble the Enchiladas: Warm the flour tortillas until flexible. Lay each flat, spoon a generous amount of scrambled eggs and shredded cheese down the center, then roll tightly. Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a baking dish, snugly packed together.
- Bake and Serve: Pour the hot sausage gravy evenly over the enchiladas. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality sausage for the best flavor.
- Whisk milk gradually into the gravy to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth texture.
- Warm tortillas before assembling to prevent cracking or tearing.
- Mix different cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack for added depth.
- Leftovers reheat well, making this recipe great for meal prep or next-day meals.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada with gravy
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 250mg
Keywords: southern breakfast, enchiladas, sausage gravy, breakfast casserole, brunch recipe, comfort food, savory breakfast