Delicious & Freezer-Friendly Breakfast Burritos: Your Ultimate On-the-Go Meal Prep Solution
In the whirlwind of daily life, especially during busy school and work weeks, finding a nutritious and convenient breakfast can feel like a constant battle. That’s where the magic of homemade breakfast burritos comes in. Imagine waking up, grabbing a perfectly portioned, hearty burrito from the freezer, and enjoying a warm, satisfying meal in minutes. These aren’t just any breakfast burritos; they’re packed with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, crispy hash browns, and melty cheese, all neatly rolled into a soft tortilla, making them the ideal freezer-friendly solution for busy mornings and a true lifesaver for families on the go.
Why Choose Make-Ahead Breakfast Burritos?
Breakfast often sets the tone for the entire day, but for many of us, it’s the most rushed meal. Whether you’re trying to get kids out the door for school, commuting to work, or simply need a quick bite before tackling your morning tasks, a sit-down breakfast isn’t always feasible. This is why having easy, handheld options readily available is a game-changer. These breakfast burritos are designed with convenience in mind, allowing you to enjoy a complete and satisfying meal without sacrificing precious time.
Beyond their grab-and-go appeal, these burritos are incredibly versatile. You can tailor them to suit any dietary preference or craving, making them a fantastic option for meal prepping. Preparing a batch of these on a Sunday means you have delicious, wholesome breakfasts ready for the entire week (or even longer, thanks to their freezer-friendly nature!). This not only saves time but also helps reduce morning stress, allowing for a smoother start to your day. Plus, they’re significantly more affordable and often healthier than store-bought or fast-food alternatives.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Breakfast Burritos
Crafting these delectable breakfast burritos begins with selecting quality ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize it based on your preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the core components you’ll need to create a batch of 10 irresistible burritos:
- Ground Sausage: One pound of your favorite ground sausage forms the hearty, savory base. We recommend a spicy variety for an extra kick, but mild works perfectly if you prefer a gentler flavor profile.
- Shredded Hash Browns: One pound pack of frozen or fresh shredded hash browns adds a delightful crispy texture and a comforting potato element.
- Large Eggs: Eight large eggs provide the fluffy, protein-packed foundation of the filling.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Two cups of shredded cheddar cheese melt beautifully, binding the ingredients together with a rich, creamy taste. Feel free to use a cheddar blend or even pepper jack for more heat.
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, to taste, are essential for elevating the flavors of the eggs and hash browns.
- Soft Taco-Sized Tortillas: A pack of 10 soft taco-sized flour tortillas are the perfect vessel for wrapping all the delicious fillings. Choose your favorite brand for the best results.
- Optional Servings: Salsa and sour cream are highly recommended for dipping, adding a fresh, tangy complement to the rich burritos.
Gathering these ingredients beforehand will make the assembly process smooth and enjoyable, ensuring you have everything at hand when you begin cooking.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Delicious Breakfast Burritos
Making these breakfast burritos is a straightforward process, even for beginner cooks. The key is to prepare each component perfectly before assembling. Follow these detailed instructions to create a batch of savory, satisfying burritos that are perfect for now or later.
Preparing the Components
The journey to the perfect breakfast burrito starts with cooking each ingredient separately to ensure optimal flavor and texture. This systematic approach guarantees a well-balanced and delicious filling.
- Brown the Sausage: Begin by placing one pound of ground sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, browning it evenly until it’s fully cooked through and crumbled. This step renders the fat and develops deep, savory flavors.
- Drain and Cool the Sausage: Once cooked, carefully remove the sausage from the skillet and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels. This allows any excess grease to drain, preventing your burritos from becoming soggy. Importantly, do not drain the grease from the skillet itself, as it will be used to flavor and cook the hash browns.
- Cook the Hash Browns: Increase the heat in the same skillet to medium-high. Add the shredded potatoes, ensuring they form a single layer for even cooking. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Use a spatula to press down on the potatoes, promoting crispiness. Flip them after a few minutes and continue cooking until they are golden brown and deliciously crispy. If the skillet seems dry, add a tablespoon or two of oil to help them crisp up.
- Set Aside Hash Browns: Once the hash browns are perfectly browned and crispy, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any remaining oil. This helps maintain their crisp texture within the burrito.
- Prepare the Eggs: Crack eight large eggs into a large mixing bowl. Add 1/4 cup of water and whisk vigorously until the yolks and whites are thoroughly combined and slightly frothy. The water helps create lighter, fluffier scrambled eggs.
- Scramble the Eggs: Turn the skillet down to medium-low heat. Pour in the whisked eggs and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Cook the eggs slowly, stirring gently with a spatula, until they are thoroughly cooked through but still moist and fluffy. Avoid overcooking, as this can make them rubbery.
- Cool the Eggs: Transfer the scrambled eggs to a bowl or plate and set them aside to cool slightly. Remove the skillet from the heat.
Assembling and Rolling Your Burritos
With all your fillings ready, it’s time for the fun part: assembly! Creating an efficient assembly line will make this step quick and easy, ensuring each burrito is perfectly packed.
- Set Up Your Assembly Line: Arrange all your cooked ingredients—sausage, hash browns, scrambled eggs, and shredded cheddar cheese—alongside your soft taco-sized tortillas. This organized setup streamlines the burrito-making process.
- Fill Each Tortilla: Take one soft taco-sized tortilla. Start by adding a generous layer of the cooked sausage down the center. Follow with a layer of the shredded potatoes, then the scrambled eggs, and finally, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make rolling difficult.
- Roll the Burritos: To roll, first fold in the shorter ends of the tortilla over the filling. Then, starting from one of the longer sides, carefully roll the burrito tightly, tucking in the filling as you go. Place the finished burrito seam-side down on a baking tray or plate to prevent it from unrolling.
- Repeat for Remaining Burritos: Continue this filling and rolling process with the remaining nine tortillas until all your delicious breakfast burritos are complete.
Freezing and Reheating for Future Enjoyment
The true genius of these breakfast burritos lies in their freezer-friendly nature, allowing you to prepare a large batch and enjoy them whenever hunger strikes.
- Wrap Individually: Once all burritos are rolled, wrap each one individually and tightly in plastic wrap. This protects them from freezer burn and makes it easy to grab just one at a time.
- Store in Freezer Bag: Place the individually wrapped burritos into a large freezer-safe bag. Press out as much air as possible before sealing. Label the bag clearly with the contents (“Breakfast Burritos”) and the date they were frozen. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3-6 months.
- Reheat and Serve: When you’re ready to enjoy a burrito, remove one from the freezer bag and unwrap it from the plastic wrap. Place it on a microwave-safe plate. Reheat in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until it’s thoroughly warmed through. Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave’s wattage. Serve immediately with optional salsa and sour cream for an extra burst of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breakfast Burritos
A classic breakfast burrito typically consists of a flour tortilla generously filled with popular breakfast items. Common fillings include scrambled eggs, savory sausage (or bacon, chorizo, ham), crispy hash browns or diced potatoes, and a good amount of shredded cheese. Many recipes, like this one, combine all these elements for a hearty and satisfying meal. You can also add vegetables like peppers, onions, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Freezing breakfast burritos is simple and effective for meal prep. After assembling and rolling your burritos, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, ensuring it’s sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn. Then, place all the wrapped burritos into a larger freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. Label the bag with the date of freezing. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 to 6 months. This method keeps them fresh and ready for a quick reheat.
Breakfast burritos are substantial on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a few simple sides. For a balanced meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad or a glass of your favorite juice. To enhance the flavor of the burrito itself, offer bowls of fresh salsa, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, or even some guacamole for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dash of hot sauce can also elevate the experience.
Breakfast burritos can be as healthy as you make them! They offer a good balance of protein (from eggs and sausage) and carbohydrates (from tortillas and hash browns). To boost their health factor, you can use whole wheat or low-carb tortillas, incorporate lean turkey sausage, or load them with extra vegetables like bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms. Swapping out cheddar for a lower-fat cheese option or using egg whites can also reduce calorie and fat content. The versatility of fillings allows for easy customization to fit various dietary needs and preferences.
Absolutely! The beauty of breakfast burritos lies in their incredible adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different proteins like bacon, chorizo, or even black beans for a vegetarian twist. You can add a variety of sautéed vegetables such as diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for extra flavor and crunch. Different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend can also be used. Don’t be afraid to get creative and tailor the fillings to your taste and what you have on hand.
Endless Customization: Making Your Burrito Truly Yours
While our classic recipe is undeniably delicious, one of the greatest aspects of breakfast burritos is their adaptability. They serve as a fantastic canvas for culinary creativity, allowing you to tailor them to your precise tastes, dietary requirements, or simply whatever ingredients you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different proteins, vegetables, and cheeses to craft your perfect morning meal.
For protein, consider replacing or complementing the ground sausage with crispy crumbled bacon, spicy chorizo for an authentic Mexican kick, or even shredded ham. If you’re looking for vegetarian options, black beans or refried beans can add a hearty, fiber-rich component. Vegetable additions are boundless: sautéed bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, fresh spinach, or even roasted sweet potatoes can add both flavor and nutritional value. For a healthier spin, swap out traditional cheddar cheese for a lighter Monterey Jack or pepper jack if you enjoy a little heat. You can also experiment with different types of tortillas, such as whole wheat, spinach, or sun-dried tomato tortillas, to further customize the flavor and nutritional profile of your burritos.
These customizable elements mean that your breakfast burritos never have to be boring. You can create a new flavor combination for each week’s meal prep, ensuring variety and excitement in your morning routine. This flexibility makes them an ideal choice for families with diverse preferences or individuals looking to manage their diet without sacrificing taste or convenience.
Other Delicious Breakfast Recipes to Try
If you’ve fallen in love with these convenient breakfast burritos and are looking for more morning meal inspiration, here are some other fantastic recipes that are sure to satisfy:
- Baked Eggs
- Air Fryer Twisted Bacon
- Biscuits and Gravy Cups
- Huevos Rancheros
- Breakfast Bundt Cake
- Baked Ham and Egg Cups
- Breakfast Pizza
- Microwave Scrambled Eggs Cups
- Microwave Omelet in a Mug
- Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burritos
The Complete Breakfast Burrito Recipe Card
Breakfast Burritos
These Breakfast Burritos are the ultimate grab-and-go meal prep solution, perfect for busy mornings. Featuring savory sausage, fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy hash browns, and melted cheese all rolled into a soft tortilla, they are as delicious as they are convenient. Make a big batch and freeze them for quick, satisfying breakfasts any day of the week!
Ingredients
- 1 pound spicy ground sausage
- 1 pound pack shredded hash browns
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, to taste
- 1 (10) pack soft taco-sized tortillas
- Salsa and sour cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown and crumble the ground sausage until thoroughly cooked.
- Once cooked, remove the sausage and set it aside to drain and cool on a paper towel-lined plate. Do not drain the grease from the skillet.
- Increase the heat to medium-high on the same skillet and add the shredded potatoes.
- Season the potatoes generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
- Ensure the potatoes cook in a single layer, pressing them down with a spatula to achieve a crispy texture. Flip after a few minutes and continue cooking until golden brown and crispy. You may need to add 1-2 tablespoons of oil if the skillet becomes too dry.
- Once browned and crispy, set aside the cooked potatoes on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Crack 8 large eggs into a large mixing bowl.
- Add 1/4 cup of water and whisk vigorously until well combined and frothy.
- Turn the skillet down to medium-low heat.
- Pour in the whisked eggs and season with salt and pepper.
- Stir and cook the eggs slowly until they are thoroughly cooked and fluffy.
- Set aside the scrambled eggs into a bowl or on a plate. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Set up an assembly line with all the cooked ingredients: sausage, hash browns, scrambled eggs, shredded cheese, and tortillas.
- Take a soft taco-sized tortilla. Layer a portion of sausage, followed by hash browns, scrambled eggs, and finally, a sprinkle of cheddar cheese down the center.
- Fold in the ends of the burrito, then carefully roll it up tightly, placing it seam-side down to secure.
- Continue this process with the additional nine tortillas until all burritos are assembled.
- Once completed, wrap each burrito individually with plastic wrap.
- Place the wrapped burritos into a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Mark the outside of the bag with the contents and the date.
- When ready to reheat, remove a burrito from the freezer bag, unwrap it from the plastic wrap, and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
- Reheat for approximately 1-2 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through.
Notes
Serve with salsa and sour cream (optional) for an extra burst of flavor. Most spicy breakfast sausage isn’t excessively spicy; it simply adds a wonderful depth of flavor. However, if you are sensitive to spice, opt for mild sausage. Alternatively, you can always increase the heat by using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. These burritos can be frozen for up to 6 months. This recipe is easily doubled if you need to feed a larger crowd or want to prepare extra for longer storage.
Nutrition
Calories: 571kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 40g | Sodium: 906mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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Originally published: August 2016
Updated photos and republished: January 2021