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Freezer Breakfast Burritos
Freezer Meals

Freezer Breakfast Burritos

Prep20 min
Cook15 min
Total40 min
Serves8
Freezer Breakfast Burritos
Breakfast on the go

I still remember the first time I made freezer breakfast burritos for my family. It was a chaotic morning, and we were all running late, but as we grabbed our burritos and headed out the door, I knew I had found a game-changer. These burritos are the perfect solution for busy mornings, and they're so easy to customize with your favorite fillings.

As a former restaurant line cook turned weekday-meal strategist, I've learned the importance of planning ahead and making the most of my time in the kitchen. That's why I love making big batches of breakfast burritos on the weekends and freezing them for the week ahead. It's a simple way to ensure that my family starts the day off right, even on the most chaotic mornings.

One of the things I love about this recipe is that it's incredibly versatile. You can use whatever fillings you like, from scrambled eggs and sausage to black beans and cheese. And because you're making them in bulk, you can customize each burrito to suit your family's tastes. My kids love adding salsa and sour cream to theirs, while my husband prefers his with hot sauce and avocado.

Of course, the key to making great freezer breakfast burritos is to use high-quality ingredients and to cook them with care. That means using fresh eggs, real cheese, and flavorful sausage, and taking the time to cook each component just right. It's a bit more work upfront, but the payoff is well worth it: a delicious, satisfying breakfast that's ready in just minutes, even on the busiest of mornings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • These burritos are perfect for busy mornings, as they can be reheated in just minutes.
  • You can customize the fillings to suit your family's tastes, making them a great option for picky eaters.
  • They're a great way to use up leftover ingredients, reducing food waste and saving you money.
  • The recipe makes a big batch, so you can feed a crowd or stock your freezer for the week ahead.
  • They're incredibly versatile, and can be filled with everything from scrambled eggs and sausage to black beans and cheese.
  • They're a healthy and satisfying breakfast option, packed with protein and fiber to keep you full until lunchtime.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to making great freezer breakfast burritos is to cook each component separately and then assemble them just before freezing. This ensures that each burrito is packed with flavorful, tender ingredients that will hold up beautifully to reheating. By cooking the sausage, eggs, and cheese separately, you can control the texture and flavor of each component, which makes all the difference in the finished burritos.

Another key factor is the use of a high-quality tortilla. Look for one that's pliable and tender, with a subtle flavor that won't overpower the fillings. You can use either flour or corn tortillas, depending on your preference, but be sure to warm them before assembling the burritos to make them more pliable.

Finally, it's all about the assembly and freezing process. By assembling the burritos just before freezing, you can ensure that each one is packed tightly and evenly, which helps them reheat more evenly. And by freezing them flat, you can prevent them from becoming misshapen or developing freezer burn.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making freezer breakfast burritos, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. You'll want to use high-quality ingredients that are fresh and flavorful, as they'll make all the difference in the finished burritos. Here are the ingredients you'll need to get started:

Be sure to choose ingredients that are suitable for freezing, and that will hold up well to reheating. This means avoiding delicate herbs and leafy greens, and opting for heartier ingredients like sausage, eggs, and cheese instead.

  • 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage, casings removedLook for a high-quality sausage that's made with real meat and spices, and that's free from added preservatives or fillers. You can also use chorizo or other spicy sausage if you prefer a bit of heat in your burritos.
  • 8 large eggsFresh eggs are essential for making great breakfast burritos, as they'll provide a rich, creamy texture and a burst of flavor. Be sure to choose eggs that are fresh and have no visible cracks or damage.
  • 1 cup (115g) shredded cheddar cheeseA good cheddar cheese is essential for making great breakfast burritos, as it will add a rich, tangy flavor and a smooth, creamy texture. Look for a cheese that's made with real milk and that's free from added preservatives or fillers.
  • 1/2 cup (55g) diced bell pepperBell peppers add a sweet, crunchy texture to the burritos, and can be used in place of other vegetables like onions or mushrooms. Be sure to choose peppers that are fresh and have no visible signs of spoilage.
  • 1/2 cup (55g) diced onionOnions add a pungent flavor and a bit of texture to the burritos, and can be used in place of other aromatics like garlic or shallots. Be sure to choose onions that are fresh and have no visible signs of spoilage.
  • 2 tbsp (30g) olive oilA good olive oil is essential for cooking the sausage and vegetables, as it will add a rich, fruity flavor and a smooth, velvety texture. Look for an oil that's made from high-quality olives and that's free from added preservatives or fillers.
  • 2 tsp (10g) ground cuminCumin adds a warm, earthy flavor to the burritos, and can be used in place of other spices like chili powder or paprika. Be sure to choose a cumin that's fresh and has no visible signs of spoilage.
  • 1 tsp (5g) smoked paprikaSmoked paprika adds a deep, smoky flavor to the burritos, and can be used in place of other spices like cumin or chili powder. Be sure to choose a paprika that's fresh and has no visible signs of spoilage.
  • Salt and pepper to tasteSalt and pepper are essential for bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients, and can be used to taste to add depth and complexity to the burritos.
  • 8 large tortillasA good tortilla is essential for making great breakfast burritos, as it will provide a pliable, tender texture and a subtle flavor. Look for tortillas that are made from high-quality corn or flour and that are free from added preservatives or fillers.
  • 1/4 cup (60g) salsa or hot sauce, optionalSalsa or hot sauce can be used to add a bit of heat and flavor to the burritos, and can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor. Look for a salsa or hot sauce that's made from high-quality ingredients and that's free from added preservatives or fillers.
  • 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream or Greek yogurt, optionalSour cream or Greek yogurt can be used to add a tangy, creamy texture to the burritos, and can be omitted if you prefer a lighter flavor. Look for a sour cream or yogurt that's made from high-quality milk and that's free from added preservatives or fillers.
Ingredients for Freezer Breakfast Burritos

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or wokSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatulaTortilla warmer or dry skillet

How to Make Freezer Breakfast Burritos

  1. 1
    In a large heavy skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the breakfast sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. 2
    Add the diced bell pepper and onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they're tender, about 5 minutes.
  3. 3
    Add the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
  4. 4
    In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt. Add the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture to the bowl and stir to combine.
  5. 5
    Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the skillet and pour in the egg mixture. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set, about 3-5 minutes.
  6. 6
    Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
  7. 7
    Assemble the burritos by spooning about 1/2 cup of the egg and sausage mixture onto the center of a tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of cheese and any desired toppings.
  8. 8
    Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the burrito up tightly. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
  9. 9
    Place the burritos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
  10. 10
    Transfer the frozen burritos to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  11. 11
    To reheat, wrap a burrito in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
  12. 12
    Serve the burritos hot, with your choice of toppings such as salsa, sour cream, and avocado.

Expert Tips

  • Use high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture.
  • Don't overfill the burritos, as this can make them difficult to roll and can lead to filling spilling out during reheating.
  • Experiment with different fillings and toppings to find your favorite combinations.
  • Consider using a tortilla warmer or dry skillet to warm the tortillas before assembling the burritos.
  • If you're having trouble getting the burritos to roll tightly, try using a bit of water to help the tortilla stick together.
  • To add some extra flavor to the burritos, try adding a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of sour cream to the filling before rolling them up.
  • If you're planning to freeze the burritos for an extended period, consider adding a bit of oil or butter to the filling to help keep them moist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overfilling the burritos, which can make them difficult to roll and can lead to filling spilling out during reheating.
  • Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the burritos.
  • Not warming the tortillas before assembling the burritos, which can make them difficult to roll and can lead to cracking or tearing.
  • Not freezing the burritos properly, which can lead to freezer burn or the growth of ice crystals.
  • Not reheating the burritos properly, which can lead to uneven heating or the growth of bacteria.
  • Not storing the burritos properly, which can lead to spoilage or contamination.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Add some diced ham or bacon to the filling for a smoky, savory flavor.
  • Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack, to change up the flavor.
  • Add some diced vegetables, such as bell peppers or onions, to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Use different types of tortillas, such as flour or corn, to change up the texture and flavor.
  • Add some heat to the filling by using spicy sausage or adding some diced jalapenos.
  • Use different types of protein, such as scrambled eggs or cooked sausage, to change up the flavor and texture.
  • Add some beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, to the filling for extra fiber and protein.

What to Serve With Freezer Breakfast Burritos

These freezer breakfast burritos are perfect for serving on their own, or with a variety of toppings such as salsa, sour cream, and avocado. You can also serve them with a side of hash browns or toast for a filling breakfast. Consider adding some fresh fruit or a green salad to round out the meal and provide a bit of balance.

Some other ideas for serving the burritos include: serving them with a side of Mexican rice or beans, adding some diced tomatoes or shredded lettuce to the filling, or using them as a base for a breakfast burrito bowl. You could also try serving them with a variety of different sauces, such as salsa, hot sauce, or guacamole, to add some extra flavor and creaminess.

Serve with salsa and sour creamAdd some diced avocado or guacamoleServe with a side of hash browns or toastAdd some fresh fruit or a green saladUse as a base for a breakfast burrito bowlServe with a variety of different sauces, such as salsa, hot sauce, or guacamole

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Once the burritos are assembled and frozen, you can store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bag or container with the date and the contents, so you can easily keep track of how long they've been in the freezer.

To reheat the burritos, simply wrap one in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1-2 minutes, until heated through. You can also reheat them in a toaster oven or conventional oven, if you prefer. Just be sure to wrap them in foil and heat them at a low temperature, to prevent burning or drying out.

It's also a good idea to consider the storage conditions when freezing the burritos. Make sure the freezer is at a consistent temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or below, and that the burritos are stored in a single layer to prevent them from sticking together. You can also consider using a vacuum sealer to remove air from the bag or container, which can help to prevent freezer burn and keep the burritos fresh for longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I store the burritos in the freezer?

The burritos can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bag or container with the date and the contents, so you can easily keep track of how long they've been in the freezer.

Can I reheat the burritos in a toaster oven or conventional oven?

Yes, you can reheat the burritos in a toaster oven or conventional oven. Just be sure to wrap them in foil and heat them at a low temperature, to prevent burning or drying out.

Can I add other ingredients to the filling, such as diced ham or bacon?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to the filling to change up the flavor and texture. Just be sure to cook the ingredients before adding them to the filling, and to adjust the amount of filling accordingly.

Can I use different types of tortillas, such as flour or corn?

Yes, you can use different types of tortillas to change up the texture and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the amount of filling accordingly, and to warm the tortillas before assembling the burritos.

Can I make the burritos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator?

Yes, you can make the burritos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to assemble them just before serving, and to reheat them according to the instructions.

Can I freeze the burritos without cooking the filling first?

No, it's not recommended to freeze the burritos without cooking the filling first. This can lead to food safety issues and affect the texture and flavor of the burritos.

Can I use a vacuum sealer to remove air from the bag or container?

Yes, you can use a vacuum sealer to remove air from the bag or container, which can help to prevent freezer burn and keep the burritos fresh for longer.

How do I prevent the burritos from sticking together in the freezer?

To prevent the burritos from sticking together in the freezer, you can store them in a single layer or use parchment paper to separate them. You can also consider using a freezer-safe bag or container that is designed to prevent sticking.

The Full Recipe
Recipe Card
Freezer Breakfast Burritos

Freezer Breakfast Burritos

Make ahead freezer breakfast burritos, easy meal prep that stores and reheats well, perfect for busy mornings with scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese

Prep20 min
Cook15 min
Total40 min
Serves8
Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage, casings removed
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 cup (115g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup (55g) diced bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup (55g) diced onion
  • 2 tbsp (30g) olive oil
  • 2 tsp (10g) ground cumin
  • 1 tsp (5g) smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 large tortillas
  • 1/4 cup (60g) salsa or hot sauce, optional
  • 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream or Greek yogurt, optional

Instructions

  1. In a large heavy skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the breakfast sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add the diced bell pepper and onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they're tender, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt. Add the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture to the bowl and stir to combine.
  5. Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the skillet and pour in the egg mixture. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set, about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
  7. Assemble the burritos by spooning about 1/2 cup of the egg and sausage mixture onto the center of a tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of cheese and any desired toppings.
  8. Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the burrito up tightly. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
  9. Place the burritos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
  10. Transfer the frozen burritos to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  11. To reheat, wrap a burrito in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
  12. Serve the burritos hot, with your choice of toppings such as salsa, sour cream, and avocado.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)

350Calories
20gProtein
30gCarbs
15gFat