Breakfast Burrito Recipe: Best Tips and Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re looking for a delicious, easy breakfast burrito recipe, this is your ultimate guide! Breakfast burritos are a versatile, freezer-friendly meal that can be customized to fit any diet. Packed with scrambled eggs, cheese, and meats like bacon or sausage, breakfast burritos offer convenience, flavor, and a nutritious start to your day. You can even adapt this homemade breakfast burrito to be healthier, vegetarian, or even vegan, making it suitable for everyone.

Breakfast burritos are perfect for a quick weekday breakfast, a leisurely weekend brunch, or even for on-the-go meals. The best part is that you can make a big batch in advance, freeze them, and enjoy them whenever you need a quick and satisfying breakfast. For more savory breakfast options, don’t miss our Ultimate Breakfast Pizza Recipe.

Classic Breakfast Burrito Recipe

This easy breakfast burrito recipe serves four but can be adjusted based on your needs.

Ingredients:

• 4 large flour tortillas (10-12 inch)
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 strips cooked, crumbled bacon
• 4 cooked sausage links, crumbled
• 1 cup cooked hash browns or tater tots
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Salsa (optional)
• Fresh chopped cilantro (optional)
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
• 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
• 1 ripe avocado (sliced, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cooking the bacon and sausage. Drain the bacon on a paper towel to remove excess grease. Scramble the eggs in a skillet over medium heat, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook the hash browns or tater tots separately until crispy. If using bell peppers and onions, sauté them in a little olive oil until they are tender.

2. Assemble the Burrito

Lay out each tortilla. Evenly distribute the scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, hash browns, and cheese between them. Optional: Add salsa, diced vegetables, and sliced avocado for extra flavor and creaminess.check this link from FoodNetwork on How To Fold a Buriito

3. Wrap and Toast the Burrito

Fold the bottom of the tortilla over the filling, fold in the sides, and roll up the burrito. For a crispy texture, toast the burritos in a skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. This step adds a wonderful crunch that makes your breakfast burrito recipe even better.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Slice the burrito in half and serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream on the side. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. These burritos can also be paired with a light fruit salad or even some extra crispy hash browns on the side.

Freezer-Friendly Breakfast Burrito Recipe

One of the best things about breakfast burritos is that they’re incredibly freezer-friendly, making them perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare a big batch, freeze them, and reheat them in the morning for a quick and nutritious breakfast. This makes your mornings much easier, especially when you’re in a rush and need a filling meal.

How to Freeze Breakfast Burritos:

1. Assemble the Burrito: Follow the instructions above, but skip the toasting step. This will ensure the burrito doesn’t become too dry when reheated.
2. Wrap Each Burrito: Wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Using two layers ensures the burrito stays fresh and maintains its flavor.
3. Storage: Store the wrapped burritos in a large freezer bag or an airtight container for up to 3 months. Label them with the date so you can keep track of their freshness.

For more detailed tips on freezing burritos, see this comprehensive guide to freezing burritos .

How to Reheat Frozen Breakfast Burritos:

Microwave Method:

• Remove the burrito from the freezer, unwrap it, and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
• Cover with a paper towel and microwave on high for about 2-3 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even heating. Add extra time if needed, ensuring the center is heated thoroughly.

Oven Method:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the burrito (still wrapped in foil) on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes until heated through. This method results in a nice crispy tortilla.

Skillet Method:

• Thaw the burrito in the fridge overnight, then heat it in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until the outside is crispy and the filling is warmed, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Regional Variations of Breakfast Burritos

The breakfast burrito as we know it has taken on different variations depending on the region. Let’s explore some of these regional takes:

1. Tex-Mex Breakfast Burrito

The Tex-Mex breakfast burrito typically features scrambled eggs, spicy chorizo, jalapeños, and a generous amount of cheese. This type of burrito is often served with pico de gallo or salsa roja for added flavor. It is a bold, spicy, and hearty version that embraces the flavors of Texas and Mexico.

2. New Mexico Breakfast Burrito

The New Mexico breakfast burrito is famous for its use of green chile. Green chile sauce is either mixed with the scrambled eggs or used as a topping for the burrito. New Mexico has a rich tradition of incorporating green chile into many dishes, and breakfast burritos are no exception.

3. Californian Breakfast Burrito

The California breakfast burrito is known for including avocado or guacamole, giving it a creamy texture. Sometimes French fries or hash browns are added for extra crunch. Californian versions often feature a combination of fresh vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, and cilantro.

4. Southwestern Breakfast Burrito

The Southwestern breakfast burrito often contains black beans, corn, and spicy salsa. This version is influenced by the flavors of the American Southwest and typically includes pepper jack cheese for a bit of heat.

The History of Breakfast Burritos

The origins of the breakfast burrito can be traced to the southwestern United States, particularly in New Mexico and Texas. Burritos themselves are a classic Mexican-American dish, but the concept of adding breakfast ingredients like eggs, sausage, and cheese emerged more recently, likely in the late 20th century.

Breakfast burritos became popular as a portable breakfast option that combined hearty ingredients to fuel the start of the day. With the growing demand for convenient, handheld foods, breakfast burritos found their way onto the menus of popular fast-food chains and local diners, leading to their widespread popularity across the country.

Today, breakfast burritos are celebrated not only in the United States but also internationally, as they are easy to make, endlessly customizable, and suitable for diverse dietary needs.

Expanded Nutritional Information of Breakfast Burritos

Breakfast burritos are a versatile meal that can offer a lot of nutritional benefits depending on how you make them.

1. Macronutrient Breakdown

• Protein: Ingredients like eggs, cheese, and meat provide significant protein, essential for muscle repair and overall satiety. For a vegan version, scrambled tofu and black beans are excellent protein alternatives.
• Carbohydrates: Using flour tortillas, hash browns, or even rice provides carbohydrates, which are an important source of energy. Opting for whole wheat tortillas increases fiber content, aiding digestion.
• Fats: Depending on your choice of protein and additional ingredients like cheese and avocado, burritos provide healthy fats. Avocados contain monounsaturated fats, which are great for heart health (read more on Harvard Health about healthy fats ).

2. Micronutrients

• Eggs provide a range of vitamins including B12, which supports red blood cell formation, and Vitamin D, important for bone health.
• Vegetables like bell peppers, onions, spinach, and mushrooms are rich in vitamins A, C, K, and minerals like iron and potassium.
• Adding black beans boosts fiber and iron intake, promoting healthy digestion and reducing the risk of anemia.

Creative Customization Ideas for Breakfast Burritos

To make breakfast burritos unique and suitable for different tastes, consider adding:

1. Different Proteins:

• Pulled Pork: Add a Southern twist by including pulled pork for a smoky, rich flavor.
• Fish: For a light, fresh taste, consider adding smoked salmon or grilled fish. This is perfect for those who enjoy omega-3-rich meals.

2. Layer of Flavors:

• Pesto Spread: Instead of salsa, use a layer of pesto to add a burst of herbal flavor.
• Hummus: Spread hummus over the tortilla before adding the filling for an extra creamy, protein-rich element.

3. Add Freshness:

• Pickled Onions: Add pickled red onions for acidity that balances the richness of eggs and cheese.
• Cabbage Slaw: Adding a cabbage slaw can bring a crunchy, refreshing layer that makes the burrito less heavy.

4. Sweet Elements:

• Cinnamon-Spiced Apples: For a sweet and savory combination, add cinnamon-spiced apples. This works well with scrambled eggs and adds a new dimension to your breakfast burrito.

More Tips for Making the Best Breakfast Burrito Recipe

1. Use a Good Non-Stick Skillet

Using a non-stick skillet for cooking the eggs ensures that they don’t stick and are cooked evenly. This not only saves time on clean-up but also keeps the eggs fluffy and perfectly cooked.

2. Use Fresh Ingredients Whenever Possible

To ensure the highest nutritional value and flavor, use fresh vegetables and herbs. Fresh ingredients make a big difference in how vibrant and tasty the burrito turns out.

3. Layering Your Ingredients Matters

The order in which you layer the ingredients affects the final texture. Place proteins first, then vegetables, and lastly cheese. This helps cheese melt properly, providing that gooey consistency that makes burritos delicious.

Breakfast Burrito Meal Prep Ideas for Families

Breakfast burritos are ideal for meal prepping, especially if you have a busy family. Preparing burritos in bulk allows everyone to enjoy a hearty, nutritious breakfast without spending time cooking every morning. Here’s how you can optimize the meal-prepping process:

1. Set Up a Burrito Assembly Line

Involve your family in the process by setting up a burrito assembly line. Prepare all the ingredients—scrambled eggs, bacon, cheese, sautéed veggies, and tortillas—and have each family member customize their burrito. This makes the experience fun and ensures that everyone gets exactly what they like.

2. Make Varieties for Dietary Needs

When meal prepping for a family, make sure to create different variations of burritos to meet everyone’s needs. For example:

• Vegetarian Burritos: Include eggs, cheese, black beans, and vegetables.
• Meat Lovers’ Burritos: Add extra sausage, bacon, or chorizo for those who love meat.
• Low-Carb Burritos: Use low-carb tortillas and include more veggies and lean proteins.

3. Use Color-Coded Wrappers

After wrapping and freezing the burritos, use color-coded plastic wraps to differentiate between varieties. For instance, use blue for vegetarian burritos and red for meat-based burritos.

Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments

Breakfast burritos are great on their own, but the right side dishes can elevate the entire meal. Here are some accompaniments to serve:

1. Roasted Salsa Verde
Serve your breakfast burrito with roasted salsa verde. The tangy and slightly smoky flavor of the tomatillos is a wonderful match for the richness of the burrito.

2. Chipotle Sour Cream
Adding chipotle sour cream can bring an extra depth of flavor. The smokiness of chipotle pairs beautifully with the burrito’s cheesy and savory components.

3. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, and bell peppers add a healthy side that complements the flavors in a burrito. The smoky grilled taste enhances the hearty burrito.

4. Fresh Fruit Smoothie
Pairing breakfast burritos with a fruit smoothie (e.g., banana, strawberry, and spinach) helps balance the heaviness of the burrito with a light, refreshing beverage packed with vitamins.

FAQs About Breakfast Burritos

1. Are breakfast burritos healthy?

Breakfast burritos can be a nutritious meal depending on the ingredients. Using whole wheat tortillas, plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats makes them a well-rounded breakfast. Be mindful of high-fat meats and excessive cheese if you’re watching calories.

2. How do I prevent my breakfast burrito from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, avoid overfilling the burrito with wet ingredients like salsa or juicy vegetables. Instead, add salsa right before eating or serve it on the side. Also, toasting the burrito before serving or freezing can help maintain a crisp outer layer.

3. How long can breakfast burritos stay in the fridge?

If you’re not freezing them, breakfast burritos can stay in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure they’re stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap to maintain freshness.

4. What type of cheese works best for breakfast burritos?

Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for breakfast burritos due to its sharp flavor and excellent melting quality. Other great options include pepper jack for a bit of heat, monterey jack, and mozzarella if you prefer a milder taste.

5. Can I add rice to my breakfast burrito?

Yes! Adding cooked rice to your burrito can make it more filling. You can use regular white rice, brown rice for more fiber, or even seasoned Mexican rice to add more flavor.

6. Are breakfast burritos good for weight loss?

Breakfast burritos can be part of a weight loss plan if you control portion sizes and ingredients. Opt for egg whites, whole wheat tortillas, low-fat cheese, and plenty of vegetables. Avoid processed meats high in fat.

7. How do I store leftover ingredients from making burritos?

Store scrambled eggs and other ingredients separately in airtight containers. Most ingredients will keep for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Conclusion: Breakfast Burritos Are the Perfect Make-Ahead Meal

Breakfast burritos are an excellent choice for a quick, portable, and nutritious breakfast. Whether you’re preparing them fresh or freezing them for later, these burritos provide a balanced meal packed with protein, carbs, and fats. The versatility of the breakfast burrito recipe allows you to create endless variations, from vegetarian and vegan options to high-protein and low-carb versions.

Whether you prefer a classic Tex-Mex style breakfast burrito with spicy chorizo or a lighter vegetarian version packed with sautéed veggies, there’s no limit to what you can create. Enjoy the flavors of regional variations, get the family involved in meal prepping, and make mornings a little easier.

If you’re looking for another delicious breakfast option, don’t forget to check out our Ultimate Breakfast Pizza Recipe. Both dishes are easy to make, full of flavor, and will keep you satisfied throughout the day!