Make-ahead breakfast burritos are your answer to busy mornings. These freezer-friendly burritos give you a hearty meal that’s easy to reheat and take on the go, with options to customize with vegetarian ingredients or extra add-ins to suit your tastes.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 8 burritos
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Convenient: Prepare once, enjoy multiple breakfasts with minimal weekday effort.
- Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients for dietary preferences or leftovers.
- Portable: Ideal for eating on the run or a quick desk breakfast.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses economical ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. cheddar ($1.69): Provides a creamy, melty texture. Sharp cheddar enhances flavor; substitute with Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
- 1 yellow onion ($0.32): Adds sweetness and depth. Essential for savory notes.
- 1 bell pepper ($1.00): Brings color and a slight sweetness. Red, yellow, or green peppers all work well.
- 2 Tbsp butter (divided, $0.26): Used for sautéing and scrambling to add richness.
- 2 pinches salt and pepper ($0.05): Basic seasonings to enhance all flavors.
- 1 lb. cooked ham ($3.75): Gives protein and savory flavor. Substitute with cooked bacon or omit for a vegetarian option.
- 12 large eggs ($2.79): The main protein source. Lightly scramble for fluffy texture.
- 8 large flour tortillas (burrito size, $1.39): Wraps everything up. Ensure they’re fresh to prevent cracking.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by shredding the cheddar if it’s not pre-shredded. This ensures smoother melting. Dice the onion and bell pepper, then set them aside. Proceed to dice the cooked ham. This prep work streamlines the cooking process.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add ½ Tbsp butter to a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion and bell pepper until the onion turns translucent, approximately five minutes. This softens their texture and enhances their natural sweetness. Season lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper, then transfer them to a bowl.
Step 3: Cook the Ham
Add another ½ Tbsp butter to the skillet. Sauté the diced ham for about five minutes until it’s browned. Browning improves flavor by caramelizing the sugars on the ham’s surface. Move the ham to a separate bowl and clean the skillet.
Step 4: Scramble the Eggs
Crack your eggs into a bowl and whisk lightly to incorporate air. This makes them fluffy. Heat the remaining 1 Tbsp butter in the skillet. Once it melts, pour in the eggs. Stir gently, pushing the eggs toward the center as they set. Stop when they’re mostly set but still moist. This prevents them from drying out. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Assemble the Burritos
Lay out the tortillas. In each, place a scoop of scrambled eggs, followed by sautéed vegetables, cheese, and cooked ham. The order ensures even distribution of ingredients.
Step 6: Roll and Store
Fold the tortilla’s bottom up over the filling, tuck in the sides, and keep rolling until sealed. Wrap each burrito in parchment paper. This prevents freezer burn and helps with reheating. Label your burritos and store them in freezer bags.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make these burritos vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the ham with cooked black beans or additional sautéed veggies like mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian-friendly version.
How do I reheat these burritos?
Reheat burritos directly from the freezer. Unwrap from the parchment, place on a microwave-safe plate, and heat for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through. For a crispier exterior, finish in a hot skillet after microwaving.
What variations can I try?
Experiment with different cheeses, add cooked sausage instead of ham, or toss in some salsa for extra flavor. Adjust seasonings and fillings to keep breakfast exciting.
