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This hearty Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy transforms classic morning favorites into a comforting casserole that bridges Mexican-inspired cuisine with traditional Southern breakfast flavors. The creamy sausage gravy blankets tender enchiladas filled with fluffy scrambled eggs, potatoes, and melty cheese for a crowd-pleasing morning meal.
I created this recipe when hosting a brunch for my in-laws who love both Mexican food and traditional Southern cooking. The empty dish and requests for the recipe confirmed it was a winning combination that's now requested at every family gathering.
Ingredients
- Flour tortillas create the perfect sturdy wrap for holding the hearty fillings
- Breakfast sausage provides the foundation for the gravy with its savory flavor and fat content
- Whole milk ensures a rich creamy gravy and tender scrambled eggs
- Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses offer the perfect combination of sharp flavor and superior melting qualities
- Green onions add a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor that brightens the rich dish
- Breakfast potatoes or hashbrowns contribute a satisfying texture contrast and make the filling more substantial
- Butter creates silky scrambled eggs with improved flavor over using oil
- Garlic powder in the gravy adds subtle depth without overpowering the sausage flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Sausage Gravy
- Cook the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat until completely browned, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. The small pieces ensure even distribution throughout the gravy. Sprinkle the flour directly over the cooked sausage and stir continuously for about a minute to cook out the raw flour taste and create a roux with the sausage fat. Gradually add the milk in a slow stream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking while stirring frequently until the gravy thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes. Season generously with black pepper and salt to taste.
- Prepare the Scrambled Eggs
- Whisk the eggs with milk and seasonings until completely combined with no visible egg whites. The milk creates tender, fluffy eggs. Melt butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat until it stops foaming but before it browns. Pour in the egg mixture and let it set slightly before gently pushing the eggs from the edges toward the center with a spatula. Cook just until the eggs are barely set but still slightly glossy, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
- Assemble the Enchiladas
- Lay each tortilla flat on your work surface and distribute the scrambled eggs evenly among them, placing the filling in a line slightly off-center. Add a portion of breakfast potatoes if using, sprinkle with green onions and the cheese blend. Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling, tucking in the edges as you roll to secure the contents. Place each rolled enchilada seam side down in your greased baking dish, arranging them snugly next to each other.
- Bake to Perfection
- Pour the warm sausage gravy evenly over the arranged enchiladas, making sure to cover them completely to prevent the tortillas from drying out. The gravy should be thick enough to coat but still pourable. Cover the dish with foil to trap moisture and heat during the initial baking period. After removing the foil for the final baking time, watch for bubbling edges and light golden spots on top to indicate it's done.
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The sausage gravy is what makes this dish truly special. My grandmother taught me that patience is the key to perfect gravy. She would always say "stirring builds character" as she showed me how to slowly incorporate the milk. Now whenever I make this recipe, I think of those mornings in her kitchen where I first learned the comfort of Southern cooking.
Make-Ahead Options
You can assemble the entire casserole the night before serving, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off, and add about 10 extra minutes to the covered baking time. The sausage gravy can be made up to two days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Gently reheat with a splash of milk before pouring over the enchiladas.
Flavor Variations
Create a spicy version by adding diced jalapeños to the filling and chipotle powder to the gravy. For a lighter option, substitute turkey or chicken sausage and use reduced-fat cheese and milk. Vegetarians can enjoy this dish by replacing the sausage with crumbled vegetarian sausage or a mixture of mushrooms and walnuts sautéed with sausage seasonings to create a similar flavor profile for the gravy.
Serving Suggestions
These breakfast enchiladas make a stunning centerpiece for a brunch spread. Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad dressed with mint and lime to cut through the richness. A light arugula salad with citrus vinaigrette also pairs wonderfully. For beverage pairings, consider spicy Bloody Marys, mimosas, or a bold coffee blend. If serving for dinner, accompany with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
The Southern Connection
This recipe represents the beautiful culinary fusion happening throughout the American South. As Southern and Mexican food traditions have intermingled, particularly in states like Texas and Georgia, home cooks have created hybrid dishes that honor both cultures. The sausage gravy transforms a traditional Mexican format into something uniquely Southern, showcasing how comfort food evolves across regions while maintaining its soul-satisfying qualities.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare the enchiladas in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas the night before and refrigerate them. When ready to bake, add the sausage gravy and bake as directed.
- → What substitutions can I use for pork sausage?
You can use turkey or chicken breakfast sausage as a leaner option. Both will work well in the sausage gravy.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, omit the sausage and use a mushroom or plant-based sausage alternative. Season the gravy to enhance its flavor profile.
- → How can I prevent lumps in the sausage gravy?
To avoid lumps, whisk continuously while gradually adding the milk to the sausage-flour mixture. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Fresh fruit, hot sauce, or a light side salad pairs wonderfully with these enchiladas for a complete meal.
- → Can I add more vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be added for extra flavor and a wholesome touch.