Spicy Sausage Breakfast Enchiladas

Start your day with a burst of flavor and a hearty meal that will fuel you until lunchtime. These Spicy Sausage Breakfast Enchiladas are a delightful twist on traditional breakfast fare, combining the savory goodness of breakfast sausage, crispy tater tots, and melty Pepper Jack cheese, all wrapped in warm flour tortillas. Topped with fresh green onions and your favorite salsa, these enchiladas are sure to become a breakfast staple in your home.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

There are countless reasons why these Spicy Sausage Breakfast Enchiladas deserve a spot in your recipe collection. First and foremost, they are incredibly versatile. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weekday morning or a leisurely weekend brunch, these enchiladas can be prepared in advance and baked right before serving. The combination of spicy sausage and creamy cheese makes for a satisfying dish that pleases both adults and kids alike. Plus, who can resist the crispy tater tots nestled inside? With each bite, you’ll experience a delightful crunch followed by creamy, cheesy goodness.

Shopping List

• 1 pound hot breakfast sausage
• 2 1/2 cups frozen tater tots
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 2 1/2 cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese, divided
• 10 (8-inch) flour tortillas
• 5 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• Salsa, sour cream, and chopped fresh cilantro (for serving)

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Large skillet – for browning the sausage and mixing the filling.
• Baking dish – to hold the enchiladas while they bake.
• Mixing bowls – for combining the egg mixture and filling.
• Whisk – to beat the eggs and milk together.
• Spatula – for mixing and serving the enchiladas.

Mastering Spicy Sausage Breakfast Enchiladas: How-To

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the hot breakfast sausage. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks, stirring occasionally until it is browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Tater Tots

In the same skillet, add the frozen tater tots and cook according to package instructions until they are golden and crispy. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, tater tots, 2 cups of the shredded Pepper Jack cheese, and sliced green onions. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Whisk the Egg Mixture

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and all-purpose flour until smooth. This mixture will help bind the filling together.

Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a flour tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the filling mixture onto the center. Roll the tortilla tightly, then place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 6: Pour the Egg Mixture

Once all the enchiladas are assembled, pour the egg mixture evenly over the top of the tortillas. Make sure to cover them well so they bake evenly.

Step 7: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded Pepper Jack cheese over the top of the enchiladas. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust as they bake.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the egg is set and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 9: Serve

Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with salsa, sour cream, and freshly chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Spring to Winter: Ideas

• Swap out the sausage for diced cooked chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
• Add bell peppers or spinach to the filling for a boost of veggies.
• Use a different cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.
• Experiment with different salsas, such as mango salsa or roasted tomato salsa, for unique flavor combinations.

Slip-Ups to Skip

• Don’t overfill the tortillas; it can make rolling difficult and lead to spills during baking.
• Always ensure the sausage is fully cooked before adding it to the filling.
• Be careful not to overbake; you want the cheese to be melted, not burnt.
• Don’t forget to let the enchiladas cool slightly before serving; they hold their shape better that way.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can also prepare the filling in advance and assemble the enchiladas the night before; just cover and refrigerate until ready to bake the next morning. This makes for a quick and easy breakfast option when you’re short on time.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the enchiladas the night before. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake them in the morning. This is perfect for a hassle-free breakfast.

What can I substitute for the tater tots?

If you prefer, you can use hash browns or even diced cooked potatoes. The key is to have a crispy texture that complements the other ingredients.

Can I freeze these enchiladas?

Yes! You can freeze assembled but unbaked enchiladas. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, bake directly from the freezer, adding additional baking time as needed.

What sides pair well with these enchiladas?

These enchiladas are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a fresh fruit salad, avocado slices, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Hungry for More?

If you’re craving more delicious breakfast ideas, be sure to explore our extensive collection of recipes. From indulgent brunch options to light and healthy breakfasts, we have something for every palate.

These Spicy Sausage Breakfast Enchiladas are not just a meal; they are an experience. With each bite, you’ll appreciate the layers of flavors, textures, and colors that come together beautifully. Whether you serve them for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, they promise to be a hit. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into this scrumptious dish that will make your mornings a little brighter and a lot tastier!