Southern Sausage Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy is a delightful fusion of hearty Southern cuisine and the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex. This dish brings together the comfort of a Southern breakfast, featuring ingredients like savory sausage, creamy gravy, and fluffy scrambled eggs, with the bold, spicy notes typical of Tex-Mex cuisine. The result is a satisfying and indulgent meal that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.

The origin of this dish is rooted in the culinary traditions of the American South, where sausage gravy and biscuits are a beloved staple. Over time, as Southern cuisine began to intersect with the flavors of Tex-Mex, creative cooks started experimenting with new ways to enjoy these familiar tastes. Wrapping the savory sausage mixture and eggs in soft flour tortillas and baking them under a blanket of creamy gravy and melted cheese offered a new and exciting way to enjoy these traditional flavors.

What makes Southern Sausage Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy truly unique is its ability to blend comfort food with a bit of spice, making it a favorite for those who enjoy robust, flavorful meals. The dish offers the warmth of a Southern breakfast, enhanced by the zesty kick of jalapenos and the rich, melty goodness of cheese, creating a perfect harmony between two beloved culinary traditions.

Ingredients Overview

The success of Southern Sausage Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy hinges on the quality and combination of its key ingredients. Ground breakfast sausage forms the backbone of this dish, providing rich, savory flavors that are essential to the overall taste. Choosing a high-quality sausage is crucial, as it ensures the right balance of spices and fat, which contributes to both the flavor and texture of the gravy and filling.

Fresh produce, like diced onions and minced jalapenos, adds a layer of complexity, bringing a slight sweetness and a hint of heat that cuts through the richness of the sausage. These ingredients also add texture, creating a delightful contrast with the soft scrambled eggs and creamy gravy.

Tater tots introduce a crispy, starchy element that complements the other ingredients, while the blend of Pepper Jack and cheddar cheeses provides a melty, tangy finish that ties all the flavors together, making every bite rich and satisfying.

Ingredient List

Ground Breakfast Sausage (1 pound)
- Options: While traditional pork breakfast sausage is the most common choice, you can also use turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option. Spicy sausage varieties can add extra heat, or you can opt for maple-flavored sausage for a touch of sweetness.
- Importance: The sausage is the star of the dish, providing rich, savory flavors that anchor the enchiladas. Choosing a high-quality sausage ensures the right balance of spices and fat.
Onion (1/2 cup, diced) and Jalapeno (1, minced)
- Flavor Depth: Onions add a sweet, caramelized flavor that deepens as they cook, while jalapenos introduce a spicy kick. These vegetables provide a balanced contrast to the richness of the sausage and cheese.
- Substitutions: If you prefer less heat, substitute the jalapeno with a milder pepper, like poblano, or omit it altogether.
All-Purpose Flour (1/3 cup) and Milk (2 3/4 cups)
- Gravy Consistency: The flour and milk work together to create a smooth, thick sausage gravy. The flour acts as a thickening agent, while the milk adds creaminess. For a richer gravy, you can use whole milk or a mixture of milk and cream.
- Tips: Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps and achieve a silky consistency.
Tater Tots (2 cups, cooked)
- Texture: Tater tots add a crunchy, starchy element that contrasts nicely with the creamy gravy and soft eggs. They provide a satisfying bite inside the enchiladas.
- Substitutions: If you prefer a lower-carb option, consider using roasted diced potatoes or even cauliflower tots.
Pepper Jack Cheese (1 cup, shredded) and Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded)
- Cheese Varieties: Pepper Jack adds a slight heat and creaminess, while cheddar brings a sharp, tangy flavor. Other good options include Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Gouda for different flavor profiles.
- Tips: Grate the cheese yourself for better melting, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
Fajita-size Flour Tortillas (10)
- Size and Type Considerations: Fajita-size tortillas are ideal for this recipe, as they are large enough to hold the filling without being too bulky. You can use whole wheat or low-carb tortillas as a healthier alternative.
- Tips: Warm the tortillas before filling to make them more pliable and easier to roll without cracking.

Tips for Ingredient Preparation

Sausage: Cook the sausage thoroughly, breaking it up into small crumbles to ensure even distribution in the filling.
Vegetables: Dice the onion finely for even cooking, and mince the jalapeno to distribute the heat uniformly throughout the dish.

Tater Tots: Pre-cook the tater tots until they’re crispy, allowing them to retain their texture during baking.
Tortillas: Lightly warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave to make them easier to work with when assembling the enchiladas.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cooking the Sausage

Begin by placing 1 pound of ground breakfast sausage in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. As the sausage cooks, use a spatula or wooden spoon to break it into small, crumbly pieces. Stir frequently to ensure even browning and prevent the sausage from burning. Cook the sausage until it’s about halfway done, then add 1/2 cup of diced onion and 1 minced jalapeno. Continue cooking until the sausage is fully browned, the onion is softened, and the jalapeno is fragrant. Be careful not to overcook, as this can lead to dry, tough sausage.

2. Making the Sausage Gravy

Once the sausage mixture is cooked, remove 1 cup of the sausage, onion, and jalapeno mixture with a slotted spoon and set it aside for the enchilada filling. Leave the remaining sausage mixture in the skillet and sprinkle 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour over it. Stir continuously for about 1 minute to cook the flour, which helps eliminate the raw taste and ensures a smooth gravy.

Next, gradually whisk in 2 3/4 cups of milk. This step is crucial for avoiding lumps in the gravy. Pour the milk in slowly while whisking vigorously to incorporate it fully into the sausage mixture. Continue cooking the gravy over medium heat, whisking frequently until it thickens to your desired consistency, usually about 5-7 minutes. If the gravy is too thick, add more milk a little at a time until it reaches the right texture. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken.

3. Scrambling the Eggs

In a separate nonstick skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Crack 10 large eggs into a bowl, whisk them lightly, and season with 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Pour the eggs into the skillet and allow them to cook gently, stirring occasionally. The key to perfect scrambled eggs is low and slow cooking; this method produces soft, creamy curds without drying them out. Remove the eggs from the heat when they are still slightly undercooked, as they will finish cooking in the oven during the baking process.

4. Assembling the Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a medium bowl, combine the 1 cup of reserved sausage mixture with the scrambled eggs, 2 cups of cooked tater tots, and half of the shredded cheeses (1/2 cup Pepper Jack and 1/2 cup cheddar). Mix the filling ingredients gently until well combined.

To assemble the enchiladas, take one fajita-size flour tortilla and place about 1/2 cup of the filling mixture down the center. Roll the tortilla tightly, starting from one end and tucking in the sides as you go, to create a compact roll. Place the rolled enchilada seam-side down in the prepared baking dish to prevent it from unrolling during baking. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

How to Ensure Tortillas Don’t Crack

To prevent the tortillas from cracking, warm them briefly before filling. You can do this by heating them individually in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 15-20 seconds per side, or by microwaving them between damp paper towels for about 30 seconds. This makes the tortillas more pliable and easier to roll.

5. Baking

Once all the enchiladas are assembled and placed in the baking dish, pour the prepared sausage gravy evenly over the top, making sure each enchilada is well-covered. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheeses (1/2 cup Pepper Jack and 1/2 cup cheddar) over the gravy. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the enchiladas are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips for a Golden, Bubbly Cheese Top

For a golden, bubbly cheese top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking. If you prefer an even more browned and crispy finish, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch carefully to avoid burning the cheese.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Southern Sausage Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy are a hearty and flavorful dish, so lighter, complementary sides are ideal. Consider serving them with a fresh fruit salad, which adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the enchiladas. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also balance the meal, cutting through the savory flavors. For a more traditional Southern touch, serve the enchiladas alongside collard greens or a side of creamy grits.

When it comes to beverages, this dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of options. For breakfast or brunch, freshly brewed coffee is a classic choice, offering a robust flavor that complements the meal’s richness. If you prefer something lighter, a chilled iced tea, either sweetened or unsweetened, works well. For a special occasion, consider serving mimosas— the citrusy brightness of orange juice mixed with sparkling wine provides a delightful contrast to the savory enchiladas.

Garnishes and additional toppings can elevate the dish further. A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang, while slices of ripe avocado offer a smooth, buttery texture. If you like a bit of heat, drizzle hot sauce over the top, or sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. These toppings not only enhance the flavor but also add visual appeal to the dish.

Nutritional Information

Southern Sausage Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy is a rich and satisfying dish, and understanding its nutritional content can help you enjoy it as part of a balanced diet. On average, one serving (assuming 10 servings from the recipe) contains approximately:

Calories: 400-450 calories

Protein: 20-25 grams
Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
Fat: 25-30 grams

The exact nutritional content can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used. The dish is relatively high in calories and fat due to the sausage, cheese, and gravy, making portion control important if you’re watching your intake. A standard serving size is one enchilada, but if you’re looking to reduce your calorie consumption, you might consider serving half an enchilada with additional sides like a green salad or fruit.

To make the dish healthier, consider these tips for reducing calories and fat:

Use Turkey Sausage: Substituting turkey sausage for pork can significantly lower the fat content without sacrificing too much flavor.

Opt for Low-Fat Cheese: Choose reduced-fat versions of cheddar and Pepper Jack cheese, or use a smaller amount of full-fat cheese to maintain flavor while cutting fat.
Swap Tater Tots for Vegetables: Replace tater tots with roasted vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower to reduce carbs and calories.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

1. Vegetarian Option: To make a vegetarian version of Southern Sausage Enchiladas, substitute the ground breakfast sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative. Many brands offer flavorful options that mimic the taste and texture of traditional sausage. Cook the plant-based sausage as you would the regular sausage, and follow the recipe as usual. Ensure that the gravy is also vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of sausage drippings or a plant-based butter. The result is a hearty and satisfying dish that retains the savory richness of the original recipe while catering to a meat-free diet.

2. Spicy Version: For those who love heat, there are several ways to spice up this dish. Increase the amount of jalapenos in the recipe, or add hotter peppers like serrano or habanero for an extra kick. You can also mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce directly into the sausage mixture or gravy. For an additional layer of spice, sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the enchiladas before baking. This version is perfect for spice lovers looking for a bolder flavor profile.

3. Low-Carb/Keto Version: To make this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly, substitute the tater tots with roasted cauliflower florets or zucchini slices. These vegetables provide a similar texture and bulk without the high carb content of potatoes. Additionally, consider using low-carb tortillas made from almond flour or cheese wraps. This version retains the dish’s essential flavors while making it suitable for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.

4. Cheese Variations: Experimenting with different types of cheese can bring new flavors to this dish. Monterey Jack offers a mild, creamy alternative to Pepper Jack, while Swiss cheese adds a nutty, slightly sweet flavor. For a richer taste, try Gouda, which melts beautifully and adds a smoky undertone. Mixing and matching cheeses allows you to customize the enchiladas to your taste preferences, creating a unique version each time you make the dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Dry Enchiladas: Dry enchiladas can result from insufficient gravy or over-baking. To prevent this, ensure you pour enough sausage gravy over the enchiladas, fully covering them before baking. If you notice the enchiladas drying out during baking, you can add more gravy midway through or reduce the baking time by 5-10 minutes. Covering the dish with foil for the majority of the baking time also helps retain moisture.

2. Soggy Tortillas: Soggy tortillas can occur if the filling is too wet or if the enchiladas are overfilled. To avoid this, ensure the tater tots are cooked until crispy and the scrambled eggs are slightly undercooked, as they will release moisture during baking. Additionally, don’t overfill the tortillas, and consider lightly toasting them before assembly to create a barrier that resists sogginess.

3. Gravy Lumps: Lumpy gravy is usually caused by adding flour too quickly or not whisking thoroughly. To avoid lumps, sprinkle the flour gradually over the sausage mixture and stir continuously while it cooks. When adding milk, do so slowly and whisk constantly to incorporate it smoothly. If lumps do form, strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve or blend it with an immersion blender until smooth.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add the sausage gravy and cheese, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

2. How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through, or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

3. What are some good substitutes for Pepper Jack cheese? Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Gouda are excellent substitutes. For a milder flavor, use mozzarella or provolone.

4. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas? Yes, but corn tortillas are smaller and more prone to breaking. Warm them before rolling to prevent cracking.

5. How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free tortillas and substitute the all-purpose flour in the gravy with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

6. What is the best type of sausage to use? Pork breakfast sausage is traditional, but turkey, chicken, or plant-based sausages work well too, depending on your dietary preferences.

7. Can I freeze these enchiladas? Yes, assemble the enchiladas without the gravy, wrap them tightly, and freeze. Add the gravy when ready to bake. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

8. Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free? Yes, use dairy-free cheese and replace the milk in the gravy with a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk.

Conclusion

Southern Sausage Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy is a dish that brings together the comforting flavors of a traditional Southern breakfast with the vibrant, zesty notes of Tex-Mex cuisine. Its rich, savory taste, combined with the satisfying textures of sausage, eggs, cheese, and tater tots, makes it a standout option for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This recipe is worth trying for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful meals that can easily be customized to suit personal preferences.

Whether you’re a fan of extra spice, looking for a vegetarian option, or need a low-carb alternative, this dish offers plenty of opportunities for personalization. By adjusting the ingredients and seasonings, you can make this recipe uniquely your own. So, whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just enjoying a cozy meal at home, these enchiladas are sure to satisfy and impress with their comforting, indulgent flavors.