Breakfast Burritos

Introduction:

Breakfast burritos are a beloved morning staple, offering a hearty and convenient way to start the day with a flavorful and satisfying meal. These handheld bundles of goodness are incredibly versatile, easily customizable to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences, and perfect for busy weekdays or leisurely weekend brunches. Imagine biting into a warm, toasted tortilla filled with savory chorizo, fluffy scrambled eggs, and crispy potatoes – a symphony of textures and flavors that awakens the palate and fuels the body.

This recipe for Breakfast Burritos focuses on creating a truly flavorful and balanced burrito, starting with a base of spicy Mexican-style chorizo and adding layers of perfectly cooked potatoes, tender onions, and fluffy scrambled eggs. The air fryer finish adds a delightful crispness to the tortilla, enhancing the overall textural experience and making these burritos even more irresistible. Get ready to discover the ease and joy of making these delicious and customizable breakfast burritos in your own kitchen.

Whether you are looking for a quick and satisfying breakfast option for yourself, a crowd-pleasing brunch dish for guests, or a meal-prep friendly recipe for busy weeks ahead, these Breakfast Burritos are the answer. They are approachable for home cooks of all skill levels, endlessly adaptable to personal tastes, and consistently deliver a breakfast experience that is both enjoyable and fulfilling. Prepare to be amazed at how easily you can create these breakfast delights and make them a regular part of your morning routine.

Why you will love this recipe:

This Breakfast Burritos recipe is destined to become a favorite in your household for a multitude of compelling reasons. First and foremost, it delivers an explosion of flavors that are both savory and satisfying. The spicy chorizo provides a robust and flavorful base, perfectly complemented by the earthy potatoes, sweet onions, and mild serrano pepper (optional). The fluffy scrambled eggs and toasted tortilla bring everything together in a harmonious and delicious breakfast package.

Beyond their exceptional taste, these burritos are incredibly versatile and customizable to suit your personal preferences and dietary needs. You can easily adjust the spice level by controlling the amount of serrano pepper or choosing a milder chorizo. Vegetarians can substitute chorizo with plant-based sausage or black beans and add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. You can also customize fillings with your favorite cheese, salsa, sour cream, or cilantro to create endless variations.

Moreover, this Breakfast Burritos recipe is remarkably convenient and efficient to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy mornings or meal prepping. The fillings can be cooked in advance and assembled quickly when needed. The air fryer finish is a game-changer, offering a faster and healthier way to crisp up the tortillas compared to pan-frying or oven-baking, while adding minimal oil. These burritos are perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts or make-ahead meals.

Finally, these Breakfast Burritos are a complete and nutritious meal in one convenient package. They provide a good balance of protein from eggs and chorizo, carbohydrates from potatoes and tortillas, and some vegetables from onions and peppers. They are a hearty and fulfilling way to start your day, providing sustained energy and essential nutrients. Prepare to fall in love with the flavor, versatility, convenience, and nutritional value of these air fryer breakfast burritos.

INGREDIENTS YOU WILL NEED:

To create these delicious and hearty Breakfast Burritos, you will need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that define this satisfying breakfast dish. Let’s explore each ingredient in detail, highlighting their purpose and offering guidance for optimal selection.

First, you will need cooking spray. Cooking spray is essential for preventing sticking in both the air fryer basket and the skillet, ensuring ingredients cook properly without adhering to the cookware and making cleanup easier. Use a neutral-flavored cooking spray such as canola oil or olive oil spray.

Next, you will require 6 ounces of Mexican-style chorizo sausage. Mexican-style chorizo sausage forms the flavorful base of these burritos, providing a spicy and savory kick. Look for Mexican-style chorizo, which is typically made from pork and seasoned with chili peppers and spices. Ensure the casings are removed before cooking to allow the chorizo to crumble and brown properly. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can opt for a less spicy chorizo variety or Italian sausage as a substitute.

For aromatics and flavor depth, you will need 1/4 cup of diced onion and 1/4 cup of diced serrano pepper (optional). Diced onion adds sweetness and savory depth to the burrito filling. Yellow or white onions are suitable choices. Dicing them finely ensures they cook quickly and distribute evenly throughout the filling. Serrano pepper (optional) adds heat and spice. Serrano peppers are small, potent chili peppers. Use caution when handling serrano peppers and adjust the quantity based on your spice preference or omit entirely if you prefer a milder burrito. Remember to remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.

Frozen diced potatoes, 2 cups, provide a hearty and satisfying texture to the burritos, adding substance and a comforting element. Frozen diced potatoes are convenient and readily available. Choose plain frozen diced potatoes without added seasonings for best control over the flavor profile. You can also use fresh potatoes, peeled and diced, but frozen potatoes are quicker and require less prep time.

Seasoning is crucial, so you will need salt and black pepper to taste. Salt enhances all the other flavors and is essential for a well-seasoned burrito filling. Use sea salt or kosher salt for better flavor and texture compared to iodized table salt. Freshly ground black pepper is preferred for its more aromatic and robust flavor. Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your personal preference throughout the cooking process.

Eggs, 6 beaten, form the protein-rich and fluffy core of the burrito filling. Large eggs are specified in this recipe. Beating the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper before cooking ensures they are seasoned and cook evenly. Using fresh, high-quality eggs will result in the best flavor and texture for your scrambled eggs.

For the burrito wraps, you will need 6 (8-inch) flour tortillas. Flour tortillas provide the structure for the burritos, encasing the flavorful fillings. Eight-inch flour tortillas are a good size for breakfast burritos, providing ample space for fillings without being too large or difficult to handle. Choose good quality flour tortillas that are soft and pliable. You can use whole wheat tortillas for added fiber, or corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, although flour tortillas are more traditional for burritos.

Finally, shredded cheese, salsa, sour cream, cilantro, etc., for serving (optional) offer customizable toppings and flavor enhancers to finish your burritos. Shredded cheese adds a melty, cheesy element. Monterey Jack, cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend are all excellent choices. Salsa adds a fresh, tangy, and spicy kick. Choose your favorite salsa variety, from mild to hot. Sour cream provides creaminess and coolness, balancing the spice and savory flavors. Fresh cilantro, chopped, adds a fresh, herbaceous note. These toppings are all optional and can be customized to your personal preference. Having all these high-quality ingredients prepared and ready will set you up for success in making these delicious breakfast burritos.

HOW TO MAKE “Breakfast Burritos”:

Crafting Breakfast Burritos is a relatively quick and efficient process, especially when utilizing the air fryer for the final crisping step. It involves cooking the various fillings – chorizo, potatoes, and eggs – in separate stages, assembling the burritos, and then air frying them to golden perfection. Let’s walk through each stage of preparation, ensuring you have a clear understanding of how to bring this recipe to life in your own kitchen.

The initial step is preparing the fillings. Start by cooking the chorizo in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks ensures it crumbles and browns evenly. Cooking chorizo first allows its flavorful rendered fat to be used for cooking the subsequent ingredients. Once cooked through, transfer the chorizo to a plate and keep it warm.

In the same skillet, using the rendered chorizo fat (and adding a little extra oil if needed), cook the diced onion and serrano pepper until softened. Cooking the aromatics in the chorizo fat infuses them with rich savory flavor. Next, add the frozen diced potatoes to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden and crisp. Cooking the potatoes until crisp adds a desirable textural element to the burritos.

While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the scrambled eggs in a separate skillet over medium-low heat. Whisking the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper before cooking ensures they are seasoned and cook evenly. Cook the eggs, stirring gently, until they are softly scrambled and just set. Cooking eggs gently over medium-low heat ensures they are fluffy and tender, not dry or rubbery.

Once all the fillings are cooked, you are ready to assemble the burritos. Lay a flour tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon a portion of the cooked chorizo, potato mixture, and scrambled eggs onto one end of the tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded cheese, if desired. Folding in the sides of the tortilla and rolling it up tightly from the bottom creates a secure burrito package that is easy to handle and eat.

Finally, air fry the assembled burritos. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray. Place two burritos in the air fryer basket seam-side down and spray lightly with cooking spray. Air frying seam-side down helps seal the burrito and prevent it from opening. Air fry for 5 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Repeat with the remaining burritos. Air frying crisps up the tortillas beautifully, adding a delightful textural contrast to the soft fillings. Serve the burritos hot with your favorite toppings and enjoy.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat Air Fryer and Prepare Basket: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. Preheating ensures the burritos crisp up quickly, and cooking spray prevents sticking.

2. Cook Chorizo: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 6 ounces Mexican-style chorizo sausage (casings removed) to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Breaking up the chorizo ensures even cooking and browning.

3. Transfer Chorizo and Cook Aromatics and Potatoes: Transfer the cooked chorizo to a plate and keep warm. In the same skillet, add 1/4 cup diced onion and 1/4 cup diced serrano pepper (if using) to the skillet with the chorizo renderings. Cook over medium-high heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Cooking aromatics in chorizo fat enhances flavor.

4. Cook Potatoes: Add 2 cups frozen diced potatoes to the skillet with the onions and peppers. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are golden and crisp, about 15 minutes. Crispy potatoes add texture and heartiness to the burritos.

5. Scramble Eggs: In a small bowl, whisk 6 eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. In another skillet (or wipe out the potato skillet), melt a small amount of butter or use cooking spray over medium-low heat. Pour in the whisked eggs and cook, stirring gently with a spatula, until softly scrambled, about 10 minutes. Gentle stirring ensures fluffy scrambled eggs.

6. Assemble Burritos: Lay one 8-inch flour tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon a portion of the cooked chorizo, potato mixture, and scrambled eggs onto one end of the tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded cheese if desired. Don’t overfill the tortillas to allow for easy rolling.

7. Roll Burritos: Fold in the sides of the tortilla over the fillings. Roll up tightly from the bottom edge to enclose the fillings and form a burrito. Rolling tightly helps create a secure burrito that holds its shape during air frying.

8. Air Fry Burritos: Place two assembled burritos in the preheated air fryer basket seam-side down. Spray the tops of the burritos lightly with cooking spray. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Air frying crisps the tortillas to perfection. Repeat with remaining burritos.

9. Serve Hot: Remove the air-fried burritos from the basket and serve hot immediately. Offer optional toppings such as shredded cheese, salsa, sour cream, and chopped cilantro for serving. Serve hot for optimal flavor and texture.

HELPFUL HINTS:

To elevate your Breakfast Burritos from good to truly outstanding, consider these helpful hints and techniques. These tips cover various aspects of the recipe, from ingredient preparation to cooking methods and serving suggestions, ensuring a consistently delicious and satisfying burrito experience every time you make them.

Firstly, pre-cooking the chorizo thoroughly and draining excess fat is crucial for preventing greasy burritos and achieving optimal flavor. Cook the chorizo until it is fully browned and cooked through, then drain off any excess rendered fat from the skillet before adding the onions and peppers. Draining excess fat ensures a less greasy and more flavorful filling.

Secondly, crisping the potatoes separately before assembling the burritos adds a delightful textural contrast and prevents soggy burritos. Cook the frozen diced potatoes until they are golden brown and crisp in the skillet. Crispy potatoes add a wonderful bite and prevent the filling from becoming mushy inside the burrito.

Thirdly, don’t overfill the burritos to ensure they are easy to roll and air fry properly. Overfilling makes it difficult to roll the tortillas tightly and can cause them to burst open during air frying. Use a moderate amount of filling for each burrito to allow for secure rolling and even cooking.

For extra crispy tortillas, spray them lightly with cooking spray before air frying and ensure they are placed seam-side down in the air fryer basket. Spraying the tortillas with cooking spray promotes browning and crisping in the air fryer. Placing them seam-side down helps to seal the rolled burrito and prevent it from unfolding.

Lastly, warm the tortillas slightly before filling and rolling to make them more pliable and prevent tearing. Microwave the tortillas briefly for 10-15 seconds, or warm them in a dry skillet for a few seconds per side. Warming the tortillas makes them more flexible and less likely to crack or tear when rolling the burritos.

DETAILS:

Prep Time: 15 minutes This includes the time needed to dice the onion and pepper, prepare the eggs, and assemble the burritos. Efficient knife work and having ingredients readily available will help keep prep time minimal.

Cook Time: 10 minutes This refers to the air frying time for the burritos. The air fryer crisps the tortillas quickly, resulting in a short cooking time once assembled.

Total Time: 25 minutes This is the cumulative time from start to finish, encompassing both preparation and cooking stages. In just 25 minutes, you can have hot, crispy, and delicious breakfast burritos ready to serve.

Servings: 6 burritos This recipe yields 6 standard-sized breakfast burritos, suitable for a family breakfast or brunch. The yield may vary slightly depending on how full you fill each burrito.

Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Main Course Breakfast Burritos are categorized as a breakfast or brunch dish and can also serve as a light main course due to their hearty filling and nutritional value.

Method: Air Frying, Skillet Cooking The primary cooking methods are air frying for crisping the tortillas and skillet cooking for preparing the fillings. This combination allows for efficient and flavorful cooking.

Cooking: Air Fryer, Stovetop This recipe utilizes both an air fryer for the burritos themselves and a stovetop for cooking the fillings. Both appliances are used to their strengths for optimal results.

Diet: Adaptable, Customizable Breakfast Burritos are highly adaptable and customizable. They can be modified to be vegetarian, lower-carb (using low-carb tortillas), or tailored to various dietary preferences by altering the fillings and toppings.

NOTES:

When preparing Breakfast Burritos, there are several important notes to keep in mind to ensure the best possible outcome and manage storage if needed. These notes cover make-ahead tips, storage instructions, ingredient substitutions, and serving suggestions, providing a comprehensive guide to this versatile breakfast recipe.

Make-Ahead Notes: The fillings for breakfast burritos (chorizo, potatoes, eggs) can be cooked ahead of time and stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Assemble the burritos just before air frying and serving for the best texture. Pre-cooking fillings is a great time-saving strategy for busy mornings.

Storage Instructions: Breakfast burritos are best enjoyed immediately after air frying for optimal crispness. If you have leftovers, store the air-fried burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Refrigerated burritos are best consumed within 1-2 days, as the tortillas can become slightly soft over time. For longer storage, assembled burritos can be frozen. Wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 1-2 months. Thaw frozen burritos in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Instructions: To reheat refrigerated or thawed breakfast burritos, the air fryer is the best method to restore some crispness to the tortillas. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave them on medium power for 1-2 minutes, although microwaving will result in softer tortillas.

Ingredient Substitutions: For vegetarian breakfast burritos, substitute chorizo with plant-based sausage crumbles, black beans, or seasoned lentils. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or corn to the potato mixture. For a milder spice level, use mild chorizo or omit serrano pepper. For cheese variations, use cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a vegan cheese alternative. You can also use different types of tortillas, such as whole wheat or low-carb tortillas, based on your preference.

Serving Suggestions: Breakfast burritos are delicious on their own, but are even better with toppings. Serve with your favorite salsa, hot sauce, sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, or diced tomatoes. A side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad complements the burritos well for a balanced meal. Offer a variety of toppings to allow everyone to customize their burritos.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Q: Can I use different types of sausage in these burritos? A: Yes, you can use different types of sausage based on your preference. Italian sausage (sweet or hot), breakfast sausage, or even chicken or turkey sausage would all be delicious substitutes for chorizo. Consider the flavor profile of the sausage when choosing your other fillings and seasonings.

Q: Can I make these burritos vegetarian or vegan? A: Yes, these burritos are easily adaptable to vegetarian and vegan diets. For vegetarian burritos, simply omit the chorizo or substitute with a vegetarian chorizo alternative. For vegan burritos, substitute chorizo with plant-based sausage crumbles, black beans, or lentils. Ensure you use a vegan cheese alternative and omit sour cream or use a plant-based sour cream alternative for serving.

Q: How do I prevent my scrambled eggs from being dry? A: To prevent dry scrambled eggs, cook them over medium-low heat and stir gently and infrequently. Avoid overcooking the eggs – they should be slightly undercooked and still slightly moist when you remove them from the heat, as they will continue to cook from the residual heat. Adding a tablespoon of milk or cream per two eggs before whisking can also help keep them moist.

Q: Can I bake these burritos in the oven instead of air frying? A: Yes, you can bake these burritos in a conventional oven. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place assembled burritos seam-side down on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. Oven baking will take longer than air frying but will still crisp up the tortillas nicely.

Q: Can I add beans to these breakfast burritos? A: Yes, beans are a great addition to breakfast burritos, adding extra protein and fiber. Black beans, pinto beans, or refried beans would all be delicious. Add cooked and seasoned beans to the filling mixture along with the potatoes and chorizo.

Q: How do I keep breakfast burritos warm if I’m serving a crowd? A: To keep breakfast burritos warm for serving a crowd, you can hold them in a warm oven. Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Place the air-fried burritos on a baking sheet in a single layer and keep them warm in the oven for up to 30 minutes. Avoid holding them for too long, as the tortillas can become soggy.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of your Breakfast Burritos, especially if you have leftovers or are preparing them in advance. Following these storage guidelines will help ensure your burritos remain delicious and enjoyable, even when reheated.

For short-term storage of leftover cooked breakfast burritos, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Cooling completely before refrigerating prevents condensation inside the storage container, which can make the tortillas soggy.

Wrap each cooled burrito individually in plastic wrap. Wrapping them individually helps to maintain their shape and prevents them from sticking together in the refrigerator or freezer. After wrapping in plastic wrap, place the individually wrapped burritos in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container for added protection and to prevent freezer burn if freezing.

Store wrapped burritos in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Refrigeration is suitable for short-term storage, but the tortillas may become slightly softer over time. For longer-term storage, freeze the wrapped burritos. Frozen breakfast burritos can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 months without significant loss of quality.

Always label and date your stored burritos so you know when they were made and when they should be consumed. For reheating, thaw frozen burritos in the refrigerator overnight, or microwave on a low power setting to defrost before air frying or oven reheating. Proper storage and reheating practices are key to enjoying your Breakfast Burritos at their best, even after they have been stored.

Related recipes.

If you liked this recipe, you’ll surely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Breakfast Quesadillas with Black Beans and Corn: A Tex-Mex inspired breakfast option featuring scrambled eggs, black beans, corn, and cheese, pressed between tortillas until golden and melty. These quesadillas offer a similar flavor profile and ease of preparation to breakfast burritos, but with a different textural experience – crispy tortillas and melted cheese throughout. They are a great alternative for those who prefer a flatter, crispier handheld breakfast.

• Sheet Pan Breakfast Hash with Sausage and Vegetables: A hearty and customizable breakfast dish featuring roasted potatoes, sausage, and a variety of vegetables, all cooked together on a sheet pan. This recipe offers a deconstructed burrito filling concept, providing all the savory flavors of a breakfast burrito in an easy-to-serve and customizable format. It’s perfect for serving a crowd or for meal prepping individual breakfast bowls.

• Breakfast Tacos with Bacon and Avocado Crema: A Texan breakfast classic featuring crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and creamy avocado crema served in warm corn or flour tortillas. Breakfast tacos offer a similar customizable and handheld breakfast experience to burritos, but with a different regional flavor profile, emphasizing crispy bacon and fresh avocado. They are a lighter, fresher alternative to heavier burritos while still being satisfying and flavorful.

These related recipes offer exciting variations on the theme of hearty and flavorful breakfast dishes, allowing you to explore different cuisines, cooking methods, and ingredient combinations while enjoying similarly satisfying and ホームmade morning meals. Each recipe provides a unique culinary experience, ensuring there’s always a delicious and convenient breakfast option to suit your taste and preferences.

CONCLUSION

Breakfast Burritos are more than just a quick morning meal; they are a celebration of customizable flavors, hearty fillings, and the joy of a satisfying and convenient breakfast. They perfectly embody the spirit of versatile home cooking – emphasizing fresh ingredients, adaptable recipes, and maximum flavor with minimal fuss. This recipe for Breakfast Burritos masterfully balances spice, savory richness, and wholesome ingredients, creating a breakfast that is both indulgent and nourishing.

From the spicy chorizo and crispy potatoes to the fluffy scrambled eggs and perfectly toasted tortilla, every component of these burritos is thoughtfully chosen to deliver a balanced and delightful culinary experience. They are burritos that are not only easy and rewarding to prepare, especially with the air fryer crisping method, but also incredibly customizable, perfect for adapting to individual tastes and dietary needs.

Whether you’re seeking a quick and delicious weekday breakfast, a crowd-pleasing brunch option, or a make-ahead meal for busy weeks, these Breakfast Burritos are an excellent choice. They are a recipe that encourages home cooking, promotes culinary creativity, and most importantly, brings smiles to faces with their simple and delicious charm. Embrace the ease and flavor of these wonderful burritos and make them a regular part of your breakfast repertoire. Enjoy the delightful aroma and exceptional taste of these fantastic air fryer breakfast burritos!