The Ultimate Southern-Inspired Brunch Casserole
Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy are a comforting, savory twist on the traditional breakfast casserole. Picture this: fluffy scrambled eggs, seasoned breakfast sausage, and melted cheese rolled inside soft flour tortillas—then smothered in rich, creamy sausage gravy and baked until golden and bubbly. This dish combines classic Southern flavors with a Tex-Mex layout for a hearty meal that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
It’s easy to assemble, incredibly satisfying, and built to feed a crowd. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday brunch, a Sunday breakfast with the family, or a make-ahead meal for the week, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy recipe stands out because it’s:
- Rich and satisfying – With eggs, cheese, and sausage in every bite
- Customizable – Swap in different meats, cheeses, or vegetables
- Great for meal prep – Make it ahead and bake it when needed
- Southern-style comfort food – A modern twist on biscuits and gravy
- Perfect for feeding a crowd – Easily doubled for large gatherings
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you begin cooking, have your tools and prep area ready to streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish – For assembling and baking the enchiladas
- Large skillet – For cooking sausage and making the gravy
- Nonstick pan – For scrambling eggs
- Whisk – For smooth, lump-free gravy
- Mixing bowls – For holding cooked fillings and whisking eggs
- Measuring cups and spoons – For consistency in ingredients
- Aluminum foil – For covering the enchiladas while baking
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Dish: Ensures even cooking and golden edges
- Skillet: Allows sausage to brown properly and makes gravy in one pan
- Whisk: Essential for incorporating milk and flour smoothly into gravy
- Foil: Prevents cheese and gravy from over-browning while baking
Preparation Tips Before Cooking
- Use room-temperature tortillas: They roll more easily and won’t crack
- Make gravy in advance: Saves time during morning prep
- Lightly grease the baking dish: Prevents tortillas from sticking
- Cook eggs until just set: They will continue cooking in the oven
- Let enchiladas rest after baking: This makes slicing and serving easier
Ingredients List for Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy
For the Enchiladas:
- 8 large flour tortillas
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 8 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon butter or neutral oil (for scrambling eggs)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sausage Gravy:
- ½ pound breakfast sausage
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2½ cups whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Fillings
Cook the sausage:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of breakfast sausage until browned.
- Drain excess fat if needed. Set aside.
Scramble the eggs:
- In a nonstick skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Add the eggs, season with salt and pepper, and cook until just set.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Make the Sausage Gravy
- In the same skillet used for sausage, brown the additional ½ pound of sausage.
- Add butter and let it melt.
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Cook over medium heat until the gravy thickens—about 5–7 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional cayenne. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Enchiladas
- Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Lay out each tortilla and fill with a spoonful of scrambled eggs, sausage, and a sprinkle of cheese.
- Roll each tortilla tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Repeat with all tortillas.
4. Add Gravy and Bake
- Pour sausage gravy evenly over the rolled enchiladas.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Let the enchiladas rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, chives, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Serve warm for a rich, Southern-style breakfast that everyone will love.
Part 2: Serving Suggestions, Mistakes to Avoid & Side Dishes
How to Serve Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy
This dish is designed to be hearty, indulgent, and satisfying. Whether you’re serving a large crowd or preparing a weekend family brunch, Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy make a memorable centerpiece.
Presentation Tips
- Serve hot straight from the oven in the baking dish for a rustic, family-style feel
- Slice carefully with a sharp knife or spatula after a brief resting period
- Top with extras like chopped green onions, parsley, or cracked black pepper
- Optional garnishes: hot sauce, sour cream, pickled jalapeños, or crumbled bacon
Best Times to Serve
- Weekend or holiday brunches
- Breakfast-for-dinner meals
- Potlucks or brunch buffets
- Meal prep for busy mornings (see Part 3 for reheating tips)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple baked breakfast dish like this one has a few key points that can make or break the final result.
1. Pouring Cold Gravy on Top
Gravy straight from the fridge won’t heat evenly in the oven. Always warm the gravy before pouring it over the enchiladas to ensure smooth, even baking.
2. Overfilling the Tortillas
Too much filling can cause the tortillas to split open or bake unevenly. Stick to moderate portions to maintain structure and appearance.
3. Using Un-greased Bakeware
The tortillas will stick if the pan isn’t lightly oiled or sprayed. Always grease your baking dish before assembling.
4. Skipping the Foil
The top layer can dry out or burn without foil. Cover the enchiladas while baking to retain moisture and uncover near the end for browning.
5. Undercooking or Overcooking Eggs
Soft scrambled eggs work best—they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Overcooked eggs become rubbery and dry.
How to Perfect the Recipe
These pro-level tips can elevate your Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy to restaurant-quality.
1. Use Day-Old Tortillas
Older, drier tortillas roll better without tearing. You can also briefly heat them to make them more pliable.
2. Season Layers Individually
Season each element—eggs, sausage, and gravy—individually for a deeper, well-rounded flavor.
3. Customize the Cheeses
Try mixing cheddar, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack for varied meltability and flavor.
4. Add Fresh Herbs
Chopped chives, thyme, or scallions add brightness to contrast the rich gravy.
5. Use a Wire Rack Under the Dish
Placing the baking dish on a wire rack inside the oven promotes even bottom-to-top heating.
8 Side Dishes That Pair Perfectly
Round out your Southern brunch with complementary sides that offer contrast in flavor, texture, or temperature.
1. Buttermilk Biscuits
Flaky, buttery, and ideal for soaking up extra gravy. Serve warm with honey or jam for balance.
2. Country-Style Hash Browns
Crispy potatoes with onions and herbs pair naturally with cheesy, creamy enchiladas.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad with Mint
A light, refreshing mix of melon, berries, and citrus brightens the plate and balances richness.
4. Creamy Grits or Cheese Grits
A Southern staple, grits add comforting warmth and texture. Serve plain or with added sharp cheddar.
5. Southern-Style Collard Greens
Braised greens bring a slightly bitter, savory bite that cuts through creamy dishes perfectly.
6. Maple Glazed Bacon
Sweet and salty, crisp bacon is a classic companion that adds crunch and flavor contrast.
7. Sweet Cornbread Muffins
Moist and slightly sweet, cornbread complements the savory profile of the enchiladas.
8. Yogurt Parfaits with Berries and Granola
Ideal for brunch spreads, parfaits add freshness, tang, and crunch to your plate.
Each of these sides enhances the comforting, savory richness of Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy and helps you build a memorable brunch spread.
Part 3: Expert Tips, Storage, FAQs & Final Thoughts
Recipe Tips and Tricks
Perfecting Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy is easy with a few expert-level strategies. These tips will help you save time, enhance flavor, and ensure the best texture from prep to plate.
Plan for Make-Ahead Success
- Prepare the filling and gravy the night before
- Assemble the enchiladas, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight
- Pour warm gravy just before baking to maintain consistency
Optimize Flavor and Texture
- Use sharp cheddar for bolder cheese flavor
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or sage to the sausage gravy for depth
- A touch of hot sauce or cayenne wakes up the creaminess
Customize With Add-Ins
- Diced bell peppers or jalapeños in the egg scramble
- Sautéed mushrooms for a meaty, umami-rich addition
- Substitute chorizo or spicy Italian sausage for a flavor twist
Storage and Reheating Instructions
These enchiladas are ideal for leftovers, meal prep, or batch cooking for future breakfasts.
Storing in the Refrigerator
- Let the enchiladas cool completely
- Cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze assembled, unbaked enchiladas for best texture
- Wrap dish tightly in plastic wrap, then foil
- Label and freeze for up to 2 months
To bake from frozen:
- Thaw overnight in the fridge
- Bake as directed, adding 10–15 extra minutes
How to Reheat
For individual servings:
- Microwave with a splash of milk or gravy
- Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture
For the full dish:
- Reheat in a 325°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through
- Remove foil in the final 10 minutes for a golden top
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the enchiladas and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Warm the gravy before baking for the best results.
What’s the best sausage to use?
Classic pork breakfast sausage works best. However, you can use turkey sausage, chorizo, or even vegetarian sausage crumbles for dietary preferences.
Can I use corn tortillas?
Technically, yes. But flour tortillas hold up better with creamy gravy and are easier to roll without tearing.
How do I thicken gravy if it’s too runny?
Continue simmering and whisking. If needed, add a slurry of flour and milk (1 tsp flour + 2 tbsp milk) and stir until thickened.
Can this be made vegetarian?
Yes. Use plant-based sausage and skip the meat-based gravy. Try a mushroom or vegetable gravy instead.
Can I use store-bought sausage gravy?
Yes, but homemade sausage gravy has better flavor and consistency. If using store-bought, choose a high-quality brand and season to taste.
What cheese melts best?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack are great choices. For extra melt, add mozzarella as a secondary cheese.
Is this dish spicy?
It can be, depending on your sausage and cheese. Use mild sausage and skip the cayenne for a family-friendly version. Add hot sauce for extra heat.
Can I use egg whites only?
Yes. Replace each egg with 2 egg whites or use a liquid egg substitute. The texture will be slightly lighter.
Can I make this for a large group?
Absolutely. Double the recipe and bake in two 9×13 pans. Perfect for brunch gatherings, potlucks, or holiday mornings.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Southern Brunch Dish
Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy combine everything you love about brunch into one rich, comforting dish. Creamy sausage gravy. Cheesy eggs. Savory sausage. All rolled in tortillas and baked to golden perfection.
It’s the kind of meal that satisfies any time of day — whether you’re feeding your family on a quiet Sunday morning or impressing a table full of guests at your next brunch.
Customize it, make it ahead, or serve it with a side of fresh fruit and biscuits. However you plate it, this recipe brings together Southern comfort and easy meal prep in one crowd-pleasing dish.
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