Breakfast burritos are the perfect way to start your day with a hearty and flavorful meal. Packed with protein, vegetables, and all your favorite toppings, these burritos are not only filling but also customizable to suit any taste preference. Whether you’re on the go or sitting down for a leisurely breakfast, breakfast burritos are a versatile and satisfying choice.
In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about making the perfect breakfast burrito, from choosing ingredients to folding your burrito like a pro. Plus, we’ll share some exciting variations, tips, and meal prep ideas to make breakfast burritos even easier to enjoy!
What Are Breakfast Burritos?
A breakfast burrito is a delicious and portable meal typically made with a flour tortilla, scrambled eggs, protein, cheese, and a variety of fresh vegetables and toppings. It’s a dish that originated in the United States, inspired by traditional Mexican burritos but designed to be enjoyed in the morning.
The burrito’s design makes it easy to customize, making it the ideal breakfast meal for busy people. You can pack it with all the essentials needed for a filling meal: protein from eggs and meat, fiber from vegetables, and a satisfying serving of carbs from the tortilla. Whether you’re grabbing one on your way out the door or preparing it for a weekend brunch, breakfast burritos offer a wholesome, well-rounded meal that can keep you full for hours.
Key Ingredients:
- Eggs: The core ingredient in most breakfast burritos, giving them a creamy texture.
- Tortillas: Flour tortillas are most commonly used, but corn tortillas or whole wheat tortillas are good alternatives.
- Protein: Sausage, bacon, ham, or even plant-based options like tofu or beans.
- Toppings: Cheese, salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and avocado are popular choices.
Why Breakfast Burritos Are a Great Choice:
- Convenient: They are easy to make and portable, which means you can enjoy a hot breakfast wherever you are.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, they provide sustained energy throughout the morning.
- Customizable: You can tailor them to suit your tastes or dietary needs, from vegan options to protein-packed choices.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Breakfast Burritos:
To make the best breakfast burrito, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. While you can certainly get creative with different fillings, the key components for a classic and satisfying burrito are:
Eggs:
Scrambled eggs are the classic filling for breakfast burritos. They provide a rich, creamy texture and work perfectly as the base for other ingredients. You can also experiment with fried eggs for a runny yolk, or use egg whites for a lighter option. If you’re looking for added flavor, try seasoning your eggs with a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Tortillas:
A soft flour tortilla is the standard choice, offering a neutral flavor that complements the fillings. You can opt for whole-wheat tortillas for a healthier alternative, or choose gluten-free tortillas if you have dietary restrictions. The size of the tortilla is important—aim for a 10-inch tortilla to make sure your burrito is large enough to hold all your fillings but not too big to wrap neatly.
Protein:
The protein choice can make or break your breakfast burrito. Classic options include:
- Sausage: Choose bulk breakfast sausage, either pork or turkey, for a juicy, savory flavor. Cook it until it’s fully browned and crumbled to add texture.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a crunchy texture and smoky flavor. Be sure to cook it until it’s crisp to balance out the soft eggs and other fillings.
- Ham: For a milder option, ham works great in breakfast burritos. You can even use leftover ham from dinner to save time.
- Vegetarian: Tofu, black beans, or roasted vegetables are excellent meat-free alternatives. Tofu is a great substitute for scrambled eggs, while black beans add a hearty, protein-packed option for plant-based eaters.
Cheese:
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses will melt beautifully and add a rich, cheesy flavor to your burrito. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try low-fat cheese or omit it entirely. Cheese is one of the most flexible ingredients for a breakfast burrito, so feel free to experiment with different varieties.
Toppings:
Toppings are what make breakfast burritos fun and customizable. Here are some popular options:
- Avocado or guacamole for a creamy, rich texture.
- Salsa or pico de gallo for a fresh, tangy kick.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
- Hot sauce for extra heat.
How to Make a Classic Breakfast Burritos:
Making a breakfast burrito is simple and only takes about 20 minutes. Here’s how you can make a classic breakfast burrito step-by-step:
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 2 breakfast sausage links (or 1/2 pound ground sausage)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 large flour tortilla
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Sausage: Start by cooking the sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside. If you’re using bacon, cook it in the same skillet until crispy, and then drain excess fat.
- Scramble the Eggs: In the same skillet, add a little oil or butter, then crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them until the yolks are fully beaten. Pour the eggs into the skillet and cook, stirring gently, until they are scrambled and fully set. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can get creative—add a pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- Assemble the Burrito: Warm the tortilla in a dry skillet or microwave for about 10 seconds to make it more pliable. Lay it flat on a clean surface.
- Fill the Burrito: Start by layering the scrambled eggs in the center of the tortilla. Add the cooked sausage, followed by the cheese, salsa, and avocado slices.
- Wrap the Burrito: To wrap your burrito, fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then fold the bottom edge up. Roll tightly from the bottom to the top, ensuring all the fillings are secure inside.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your burrito immediately, or wrap it in foil for an on-the-go breakfast. You can also toast the burrito in a skillet for a crispy exterior, if desired.
Variations on the Classic Breakfast Burrito:
One of the best things about breakfast burritos is how customizable they are. You can easily switch up the ingredients based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few exciting variations to try:
- Vegetarian Breakfast Burrito: Replace the sausage with black beans, grilled veggies like bell peppers and onions, and a generous scoop of guacamole. You can even add some sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor. This option is packed with fiber and is entirely plant-based.
- Southwest Breakfast Burrito: This version is perfect for those who like a bit of spice. Add roasted potatoes, black beans, and a zesty salsa or hot sauce. Top with avocado and a sprinkle of cilantro. This version brings the heat and bold flavors of the southwest straight to your plate.
- Healthy Breakfast Burrito: Use a whole wheat tortilla, lean turkey sausage, and a lot of fresh veggies like spinach, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Skip the cheese or opt for a lighter cheese to reduce the calories. This variation is packed with nutrients and can easily fit into a low-calorie diet.
- Bacon Breakfast Burrito: Swap the sausage for crispy bacon, and add some sautéed mushrooms and onions for a savory touch. A drizzle of hot sauce will add a nice heat, and avocado provides a creamy finish. Bacon lovers will appreciate the crunch and smokiness that bacon adds to the burrito.
- Sweet Breakfast Burrito: If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try adding scrambled eggs, berries (like strawberries or blueberries), and a drizzle of honey. This version is a great option for a treat-like breakfast, offering a balance of sweet and savory.
Breakfast Burrito Meal Prep: Make Ahead for Busy Mornings:
Meal prepping breakfast burritos has many advantages, especially for those who don’t have much time in the morning. Here’s why you should consider meal prepping this filling breakfast:
- Time-Saving: Instead of spending time each morning scrambling eggs, cooking meat, and assembling burritos, you can prepare everything in one go. This means you can grab your breakfast and head out the door in seconds.
- Healthy Option: Meal prepping allows you to control exactly what goes into your burritos, ensuring they’re filled with healthy ingredients like protein, vegetables, and whole grains. You can avoid the temptation of fast food or sugary cereals.
- Cost-Effective: Preparing your breakfast burritos in bulk is not only more affordable than buying breakfast at a cafe, but it also helps you reduce food waste. You can use leftovers and make multiple servings at once.
- Customization: Whether you want to stick to a vegetarian breakfast burrito, or you prefer one packed with protein, meal prepping gives you the freedom to make a variety of options. You can experiment with different fillings each week based on your preferences and dietary goals.
Steps to Prepare Breakfast Burritos in Advance
Here’s how you can make and store your breakfast burritos ahead of time, so they are ready when you need them:
1. Cook the Fillings:
The first step in meal prepping breakfast burritos is preparing all the fillings. Start by cooking your protein, whether it’s scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, or a vegetarian alternative like black beans or tofu. Here’s how you can prep the fillings:
- Eggs: Scramble eggs in a large skillet. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
- Protein: Cook your preferred protein—sausage, bacon, or even shredded chicken—until browned and crispy. If you’re making a vegetarian burrito, consider sautéing tofu or grilling vegetables.
- Other Ingredients: Prepare any additional fillings like roasted potatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or fresh salsa. If you plan to add cheese, shred it now, so it’s ready to go when you’re assembling your burritos.
2. Assemble the Burritos:
Once your fillings are cooked, it’s time to assemble the burritos. Here’s how to do it:
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them pliable. This helps prevent cracking when wrapping the burritos.
- Layer the Fillings: Lay the warm tortilla flat and start by adding a small amount of scrambled eggs in the center. Then, add your protein, cheese, vegetables, and any other fillings. Be careful not to overfill the burrito, as this will make it hard to wrap.
- Wrap the Burrito: Fold in the sides of the tortilla first, then roll up from the bottom, securing the filling inside. If you’re new to wrapping burritos, be sure to fold the tortilla tightly but not too tight to avoid splitting.
3. Wrap and Store the Burritos:
Once your burritos are assembled, you can either store them in the fridge for a few days or freeze them for later. Here’s how:
- Refrigerating: If you plan to eat the burritos within the next 3-4 days, wrap each one tightly in foil or parchment paper and place them in an airtight container. Store the container in the refrigerator.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze your breakfast burritos. Wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to squeeze out any air to prevent freezer burn. These burritos will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. Reheating Your Breakfast Burritos:
When you’re ready to enjoy a breakfast burrito from your meal prep stash, there are a few easy ways to reheat them:
- Microwave: The fastest way to reheat a breakfast burrito is in the microwave. Unwrap the burrito from foil or plastic, place it on a microwave-safe plate, and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. If you want a crispy exterior, consider microwaving the burrito for 30 seconds, then transfer it to a hot skillet and cook it for another 1-2 minutes on each side.
- Oven: For a crispier texture, reheat your breakfast burrito in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap the burrito in foil (if it’s not already), and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through.
- Skillet: If you want a crispy burrito, heat it in a skillet over medium heat. Place the burrito in the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortilla is golden brown and the filling is heated.
5. Storing Leftovers:
If you have any leftover burritos, you can continue to store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for later use. Freezing leftover burritos is a great option if you want to make a big batch of breakfast burritos and have meals ready for weeks.e them in the refrigerator. Wrap them in foil or parchment paper and keep them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
FAQs: Breakfast Burritos Recipe
1. Can I make breakfast burritos ahead of time?
Yes! Breakfast burritos are perfect for meal prep. You can make them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply assemble the burritos, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in the microwave or oven. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 1-2 months and reheat as needed.
2. What can I put in a breakfast burrito?
The beauty of a breakfast burrito is its versatility. Some popular fillings include:
- Scrambled eggs or egg whites
- Bacon, sausage, or vegetarian options like beans or tofu
- Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite kind)
- Fresh veggies like peppers, onions, and spinach
- Avocado, salsa, or sour cream for extra flavor You can customize your breakfast burrito to suit your dietary preferences and taste.
3. How do I make breakfast burritos healthier?
Making your breakfast burritos healthier is easy with a few simple swaps:
- Use whole wheat or low-carb tortillas for added fiber.
- Opt for lean proteins like turkey sausage, chicken, or black beans instead of regular sausage or bacon.
- Add more veggies, such as spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes, to increase nutrients.
- Go light on cheese or choose a low-fat variety.
- Use avocado as a source of healthy fats instead of heavy sauces or sour cream.
These small changes can make your breakfast burrito not only delicious but also a nutritious start to your day.
In conclusion, breakfast burritos are a convenient, nutritious, and delicious way to start your day. With endless variations to suit your tastes and dietary preferences, you can customize your burrito to make it as filling, healthy, or indulgent as you like. Whether you prefer a classic breakfast burrito with eggs and sausage or a vegetarian version filled with fresh veggies, the possibilities are endless.
By following the simple steps outlined in this guide and experimenting with different fillings and toppings, you’ll be able to make the perfect breakfast burrito every time. Plus, with the option to prep ahead, you can enjoy this satisfying meal all week long—no morning rush required!
So grab your tortillas, your favorite fillings, and start creating your own breakfast burrito masterpiece today!
