Spice Up Your Morning: Delicious Southwest Breakfast Burrito Recipes
Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? Do you crave something with a little kick and a lot of flavor? Look no further than the Southwest breakfast burrito! These hearty and delicious burritos are packed with savory ingredients and a touch of spice, making them the perfect way to start your day. In this article, we’ll explore several variations of the Southwest breakfast burrito, providing detailed recipes and step-by-step instructions to help you create a breakfast masterpiece right in your own kitchen.
What Makes a Breakfast Burrito “Southwest”?
The term “Southwest” refers to the cuisine of the Southwestern United States, a region known for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and use of ingredients like chili peppers, corn, beans, and cilantro. A Southwest breakfast burrito typically incorporates these elements, offering a unique and satisfying breakfast experience.
Common characteristics of a Southwest breakfast burrito include:
* **Eggs:** Scrambled eggs are the foundation of most breakfast burritos, providing protein and a creamy texture.
* **Meat:** Sausage, bacon, chorizo, or shredded chicken are popular meat choices, adding savory flavor and substance.
* **Potatoes:** Diced potatoes, often seasoned with spices like chili powder and cumin, contribute to the burrito’s heartiness.
* **Beans:** Black beans or pinto beans are frequently included for added protein and fiber.
* **Cheese:** Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese provides a melty, cheesy goodness.
* **Chili Peppers:** Green chiles, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce add a signature Southwest kick.
* **Vegetables:** Onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and corn contribute flavor, texture, and nutrients.
* **Tortilla:** A large flour tortilla is essential for wrapping all the ingredients together.
* **Toppings (Optional):** Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and cilantro are common toppings that enhance the flavor and presentation.
Recipe 1: Classic Southwest Sausage Breakfast Burrito
This recipe provides a solid foundation for your Southwest breakfast burrito journey. It’s easily customizable to your preferences, allowing you to adjust the spice level and ingredients to your liking.
**Yields:** 4 burritos
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 25 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 4 large flour tortillas (10-12 inches)
* 1 pound breakfast sausage (ground pork or turkey)
* 1 medium onion, diced
* 1 green bell pepper, diced
* 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chiles, drained
* 8 large eggs
* 1/4 cup milk or cream
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* Optional toppings: salsa, guacamole, sour cream, cilantro
**Equipment:**
* Large skillet
* Whisk
* Spatula
* Measuring cups and spoons
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the sausage:** In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
2. **Sauté the vegetables:** Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. **Add green chiles:** Stir in the diced green chiles and cook for another minute.
4. **Prepare the eggs:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. **Cook the eggs:** Pour the egg mixture into the skillet with the sausage and vegetables. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set but still slightly moist. Don’t overcook them, as they will continue to cook inside the burrito.
6. **Warm the tortillas:** Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet, microwave, or oven according to package directions. This will make them more pliable and easier to roll.
7. **Assemble the burritos:** Lay a warm tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon about 1/4 of the egg and sausage mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Top with 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
8. **Fold the burritos:** Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then fold the bottom up and over the filling. Roll tightly to create a burrito.
9. **Serve:** Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and cilantro. Alternatively, you can wrap the burritos in foil and freeze them for later.
Recipe 2: Spicy Chorizo and Potato Breakfast Burrito
For those who like a little more heat, this chorizo and potato breakfast burrito is sure to satisfy. The spicy chorizo pairs perfectly with the hearty potatoes and creamy eggs, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
**Yields:** 4 burritos
**Prep time:** 25 minutes
**Cook time:** 30 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 4 large flour tortillas (10-12 inches)
* 1 pound Mexican chorizo, removed from casing
* 1 pound Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
* 1/2 medium onion, diced
* 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)
* 8 large eggs
* 1/4 cup milk or cream
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
* Optional toppings: salsa verde, avocado slices, cilantro
**Equipment:**
* Large skillet
* Medium saucepan
* Whisk
* Spatula
* Measuring cups and spoons
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the chorizo:** In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
2. **Cook the potatoes:** While the chorizo is cooking, cook the potatoes. There are several ways to do this. You can boil them in a medium saucepan of salted water until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Alternatively, you can roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or sauté them in a separate skillet with a little oil until browned and tender. Choose your preferred method.
3. **Sauté the vegetables:** Add the diced onion and jalapeño (if using) to the skillet with the chorizo. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. **Add potatoes to the chorizo mixture:** If you cooked the potatoes separately, add them to the skillet with the chorizo and vegetables. Stir to combine.
5. **Prepare the eggs:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. **Cook the eggs:** Pour the egg mixture into the skillet with the chorizo, potatoes, and vegetables. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set but still slightly moist.
7. **Warm the tortillas:** Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet, microwave, or oven according to package directions.
8. **Assemble the burritos:** Lay a warm tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon about 1/4 of the chorizo, potato, and egg mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Top with 1/4 cup of shredded pepper jack cheese.
9. **Fold the burritos:** Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then fold the bottom up and over the filling. Roll tightly to create a burrito.
10. **Serve:** Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as salsa verde, avocado slices, and cilantro.
Recipe 3: Vegetarian Black Bean and Corn Breakfast Burrito
This vegetarian option is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a healthy and satisfying breakfast choice. The black beans and corn provide protein and fiber, while the avocado adds healthy fats and creaminess.
**Yields:** 4 burritos
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 20 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 4 large flour tortillas (10-12 inches)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 medium onion, diced
* 1 red bell pepper, diced
* 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 8 large eggs
* 1/4 cup milk or cream
* 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/4 teaspoon cumin
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
* 1 avocado, mashed
* Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream
**Equipment:**
* Large skillet
* Whisk
* Spatula
* Measuring cups and spoons
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté the vegetables:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. **Add black beans and corn:** Stir in the black beans, corn, and cilantro. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
3. **Prepare the eggs:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. **Cook the eggs:** Pour the egg mixture into the skillet with the vegetables and beans. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set but still slightly moist.
5. **Warm the tortillas:** Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet, microwave, or oven according to package directions.
6. **Assemble the burritos:** Lay a warm tortilla on a flat surface. Spread a thin layer of mashed avocado onto the tortilla. Spoon about 1/4 of the egg and vegetable mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Top with 1/4 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
7. **Fold the burritos:** Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then fold the bottom up and over the filling. Roll tightly to create a burrito.
8. **Serve:** Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as salsa and sour cream.
Tips for Making the Best Southwest Breakfast Burritos
* **Use high-quality ingredients:** The better the ingredients, the better the burrito will taste. Choose fresh vegetables, good-quality meat, and flavorful cheese.
* **Don’t overcook the eggs:** Overcooked eggs will be dry and rubbery. Cook them until they are set but still slightly moist.
* **Warm the tortillas:** Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and easier to roll. This also prevents them from cracking or tearing.
* **Don’t overfill the burritos:** Overfilling the burritos will make them difficult to roll and eat. Start with a small amount of filling and adjust as needed.
* **Roll the burritos tightly:** Rolling the burritos tightly will help to keep the filling inside and prevent them from falling apart.
* **Customize your burritos:** Feel free to adjust the ingredients and spices to your liking. Experiment with different meats, vegetables, cheeses, and sauces to create your perfect Southwest breakfast burrito.
* **Freeze for later:** Southwest breakfast burritos can be easily frozen for a quick and convenient breakfast option. Wrap the assembled burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then microwave or bake until heated through.
* **Add a sauce:** A flavorful sauce can take your Southwest breakfast burrito to the next level. Consider adding salsa, hot sauce, sour cream, guacamole, or a homemade chipotle mayo.
* **Get creative with toppings:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings to add flavor and texture to your burritos. Some popular toppings include cilantro, chopped onions, diced tomatoes, and pickled jalapeños.
Variations and Add-ins for Southwest Breakfast Burritos
The possibilities for Southwest breakfast burritos are endless! Here are some variations and add-ins to inspire you:
* **Protein:**
* Shredded chicken
* Carnitas (pulled pork)
* Steak (carne asada)
* Ground beef
* Tofu (for a vegetarian or vegan option)
* **Vegetables:**
* Roasted sweet potatoes
* Spinach
* Mushrooms
* Zucchini
* Roasted poblano peppers
* **Cheese:**
* Queso fresco
* Asadero cheese
* Oaxaca cheese
* Cotija cheese
* **Sauces and Spreads:**
* Chipotle mayo
* Avocado crema
* Ranchero sauce
* Enchilada sauce
* **Grains:**
* Quinoa
* Rice (brown or white)
* **Spice:**
* Serrano peppers
* Ancho chili powder
* Cayenne pepper
* Smoked paprika
Serving Suggestions for Southwest Breakfast Burritos
Southwest breakfast burritos are a complete meal on their own, but here are some serving suggestions to enhance your breakfast experience:
* **Serve with a side of fruit:** A refreshing fruit salad or sliced melon provides a light and healthy contrast to the richness of the burrito.
* **Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt:** This adds a creamy tang that complements the savory flavors of the burrito.
* **Garnish with fresh cilantro:** Cilantro adds a bright and fresh flavor to the burrito.
* **Serve with a side of salsa:** Choose your favorite salsa, from mild to extra spicy, to add an extra kick.
* **Pair with a breakfast beverage:** Coffee, tea, juice, or a smoothie are all great options to accompany your Southwest breakfast burrito.
Conclusion
Southwest breakfast burritos are a delicious and versatile way to start your day. With their bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and customizable nature, they are sure to become a breakfast staple in your home. So, get in the kitchen, experiment with different ingredients, and create your own signature Southwest breakfast burrito recipe. Your taste buds will thank you!