Name: Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Butter; 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (can be substituted with avocado oil); 1 small Onion, diced; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 pound Breakfast Sausage; 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour; 2 cups Milk (whole milk works best); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Paprika; 8 large Flour Tortillas; 1 1/2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded; 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon Ground Sage; 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1/4 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1/4 teaspoon Thyme; 1 tablespoon Hot Sauce

As the sun begins to rise, a familiar aroma fills the kitchen—a delightful hint of sizzling sausage mingling with buttery tortillas. That’s right! We’re diving into a heartwarming recipe for Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy—your new go-to comfort food that combines the bold, savory flavors of breakfast with the satisfying warmth of enchiladas. These enchiladas are not just a treat for your taste buds; they’re a quick family pleaser that transforms ordinary mornings into something special. With just 15 minutes of prep and packed with cheesy goodness, you'll want to whip this up again and again! Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds and make breakfast fun again? Let’s get cooking!

Why Make Southern Breakfast Enchiladas?

Comforting, Unique Flavor: These enchiladas blend the classic flavors of breakfast with a savory sausage gravy that is sure to impress.

Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready for the whole family without a fuss.

Cheesy Goodness: Packed with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, each bite is a melty explosion of flavor!

Versatile Dish: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, they can please both the picky eaters and gourmet palates in your home.

Crowd-Pleaser: Hosting friends? Serve these up for a delightful twist that everyone will rave about—just like you’d find in my Lemon Brownie Bars or Lemon Raspberry Cake!

Southern Breakfast Enchiladas Ingredients

• Get ready to create a memory-making meal for your loved ones!

For the Gravy

Butter – 2 tablespoons for a rich, flavorful base.
Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon adds a nice depth and can be substituted with avocado oil.
Onion – 1 small, diced, brings a sweet and savory aroma when sautéed.
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced, for a punch of flavor that elevates the dish.
Breakfast Sausage – 1 pound, adds hearty goodness and essential protein.
All-Purpose Flour – ¼ cup helps thicken the gravy to perfect creaminess.
Milk – 2 cups creates a luscious, creamy sauce; whole milk works best!
Salt – ½ teaspoon enhances all the flavors in the dish.
Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon brings a mild, warming heat.
Cayenne Pepper – ¼ teaspoon for a subtle kick that wakes up your palate.
Paprika – ½ teaspoon adds color and a mild sweetness.

For the Enchiladas

Flour Tortillas – 8 large, the foundation for rolling up all the delicious fillings.
Cheddar Cheese – 1 ½ cups shredded, offers a classic sharp flavor.
Monterey Jack Cheese – 1 cup shredded, brings meltiness and creaminess to the party.

For the Garnish

Fresh Parsley – ¼ cup, chopped, gives a fresh pop and vibrant color on top.
Ground Sage – ½ teaspoon adds a quintessential Southern flavor.
Garlic Powder – ¼ teaspoon for extra garlic goodness in every bite.
Onion Powder – ¼ teaspoon complements the fresh onion flavor.
Thyme – ¼ teaspoon, a fragrant herb that rounds out the spices.
Hot Sauce – 1 tablespoon, your secret weapon for an extra flavor boost!

Now that you're all set with the ingredients, it's time to dive into the wonderful world of cooking Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add 1 small diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. The aromas will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy.

Step 2: Add Garlic
Stir in 2 minced cloves of garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant and lightly golden, enhancing the savory base for your delicious gravy.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage
Add 1 pound of breakfast sausage to the skillet, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a spatula. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the sausage is browned and fully cooked, stirring frequently. The sausage should be crumbly and browned, which is key for that hearty flavor in your enchiladas.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour
Once the sausage is cooked, sprinkle ¼ cup of all-purpose flour over the mixture and stir well to combine. Cook the flour for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly, allowing it to absorb the fat and flavor without browning excessively.

Step 5: Add Milk and Seasonings
Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Season the mixture with ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon ground sage, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon thyme. Bring this Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy mix to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Step 6: Simmer Until Thickened
Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. You want it to coat the back of a spoon—rich and creamy, making it irresistible for your enchiladas.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking
Remove the skillet from heat and set it aside. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the tortillas and filling. This ensures your enchiladas bake to bubbly perfection.

Step 8: Fill the Tortillas
Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and place the 8 large flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the warm sausage gravy onto the center of each tortilla. The flavorful filling will add heartiness to your enchiladas.

Step 9: Add Cheese
Sprinkle a small handful of shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese over the gravy on each tortilla, allowing the cheese to enhance the creamy goodness. This melty layer will create the delightful cheesy bite in each enchilada.

Step 10: Roll and Arrange Enchiladas
Tightly roll up each tortilla, securing the filling inside, and place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish, making sure they are lined up closely together for even baking.

Step 11: Pour Additional Gravy
Pour the remaining sausage gravy evenly over the top of the rolled tortillas, ensuring each enchilada is generously coated for maximum flavor. This step will create that comforting sauce that makes these enchiladas irresistible.

Step 12: Cheese It Up
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses generously over the top of the gravy, creating a beautiful layer that will melt into the ultimate cheesy goodness during baking.

Step 13: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the baking dish to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating that beautiful golden crust on top. The aroma wafting from the oven will have everyone eagerly awaiting.

Step 14: Cool and Garnish
Once baked, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes. This will help the sauce set slightly, making serving easier.

Step 15: Serve and Enjoy
Sprinkle ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley over the top for a vibrant finishing touch, and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of hot sauce for an extra kick. Serve your Southern Breakfast Enchiladas warm, and relish the smiles around the table!

How to Store and Freeze Southern Breakfast Enchiladas

Fridge: Store leftover Southern Breakfast Enchiladas in an airtight container; they will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining their delicious flavor.

Freezer: Wrap each enchilada tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh for when cravings hit.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes or until heated thoroughly.

Airtight Storage: When storing in the fridge, ensure they are fully cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup, keeping your enchiladas just as tasty as the first day!

Southern Breakfast Enchiladas Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Southern Breakfast Enchiladas; there's a world of delicious options waiting for you!

Dairy-Free: Use unsweetened almond or oat milk and swap regular cheese for vegan cheese for a creamy, plant-based twist.
Spicy Kick: Add finely diced jalapeños or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the sausage for an elevated heat level and flavor.
Meatless Option: Substitute the sausage with black beans or lentils for a protein-packed vegetarian version that still delivers on flavor.
Flavor Boost: Stir in a tablespoon of chipotle sauce for a smoky depth that will awaken your taste buds.
Herbaceous Delight: Fresh cilantro can replace parsley as a garnish for an herbaceous and vibrant finish that brightens up each bite!
Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to make this dish gluten-free while retaining its comforting charm.
Breakfast Twist: Include scrambled eggs as part of the filling for an even heartier enchilada that combines breakfast favorites in every bite!
Savory Sweetness: Add a touch of maple syrup to the sausage mix for a delightful sweetness that perfectly balances the savory gravy.

Let these variations inspire you! Dive into these enchanting flavors, and remember, cooking is all about making it your own—just like you might enjoy in my Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies or a slice of classic Lemon Raspberry Cake!

Make Ahead Options

These Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy are perfect for busy cooks who want to simplify mealtime! You can prepare the sausage gravy up to 3 days in advance by cooking it fully, letting it cool, and then refrigerating it in an airtight container. The tortillas can also be filled and rolled 24 hours before baking; just cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep them fresh. When ready to serve, simply preheat your oven, pour the gravy over the unbaked enchiladas, sprinkle with cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly. This way, you'll enjoy delicious, home-cooked comfort without the hassle on busy mornings!

Tips for the Best Southern Breakfast Enchiladas

• Perfect Sausage Browning: Ensure your breakfast sausage is fully browned for maximum flavor. Undercooked sausage can lead to a greasy or soggy filling.

• Avoid Lumps: When adding milk to the sausage mixture, pour it in gradually while stirring constantly. This helps create a smooth sausage gravy ideal for your enchiladas.

• Tortilla Technique: Warm your flour tortillas slightly before filling. This makes them more pliable and less likely to tear when rolling up your Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy.

• Custom Cheese Blend: Feel free to experiment with cheese! Mixing in pepper jack or gouda can add a unique twist, while still keeping that comforting cheesy goodness.

• Serving Suggestions: Enhance your dish with toppings like sliced jalapeños, avocado, or even a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess and flavor.

What to Serve with Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy

Create a memorable meal experience by complementing these flavorful enchiladas with delightful sides and beverages.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the enchiladas.
Crispy Home Fries: Golden, crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch, balancing the creamy sausage gravy beautifully.
Spicy Pickled Vegetables: These tangy, zesty bites elevate your meal, adding brightness and a welcome crunch against the rich textures of the enchiladas.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado is a perfect partner, softening the spice of the hot sauce and adding a luscious texture that enhances each bite.
Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with a tangy dressing and crunchy croutons complements the richness of the enchiladas, cleaning your palate beautifully.
Iced Sweet Tea: A Southern staple, this refreshing beverage pairs perfectly with the enchiladas, blending sweetness with spicy flavors to enhance your meal experience.
Cornbread Muffins: Soft, buttery muffins echo Southern comfort and provide a delightful contrast to the savory enchiladas, making every bite feel like a warm hug.

Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best breakfast sausage?
Absolutely! When choosing breakfast sausage, look for one that’s fresh and has a good balance of meat and seasoning. Check for any dark spots on the packaging, indicating spoilage. If possible, opt for a sausage with no added preservatives to ensure you're getting the best quality.

How should I store leftover enchiladas?
Very good question! Store your leftover Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup. For best results, reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.

Can I freeze enchiladas for future meals?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, wrap each enchilada tightly in plastic wrap, then cover them in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. This prevents freezer burn for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my gravy is too thick?
If your gravy has thickened more than you’d like, don’t worry! Gradually stir in a little more milk over medium heat until you reach your desired consistency, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. This will help create a silky sauce that perfectly coats your enchiladas.

Can I make this dish healthier?
Absolutely! You can substitute low-fat sausage and milk to reduce calories. For a different flavor, try using a whole grain tortilla or even zucchini for a veggie-packed twist. Always feel free to mix and match with your favorite healthier ingredients!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Great question! If anyone you are serving has dairy allergies, consider using plant-based cheese alternatives and almond or oat milk. Additionally, always check spice blends and sausages for gluten if you want this dish to be gluten-free. Chefs know best how to customize for everyone’s needs!