The Ultimate Guide to Breakfast Burritos: Recipes, Variations, and Best Picks

Few things hit the spot in the morning like a hearty breakfast burrito. Whether you’re grabbing one on the go, making a homemade version, or hunting for the best breakfast burrito in town, this guide has you covered.

Let’s kick things off with a look at what makes a breakfast burrito so special!

What is a Breakfast Burrito? 

The Origin of the Breakfast Burrito

The breakfast burrito is a delicious evolution of the traditional Mexican burrito. While burritos date back to Mexican street food culture, the morning version is believed to have been popularized in the Southwestern United States, particularly in New Mexico and Texas.

The first known reference to a breakfast burrito appeared in 1975, thanks to a menu from a New Mexico restaurant. However, the concept quickly spread across the U.S., with fast-food chains and home cooks embracing this flavor-packed breakfast option. Today, you’ll find breakfast burritos everywhere—from mom-and-pop diners to trendy brunch spots and grocery store freezers.

Key Ingredients of a Classic Breakfast Burrito

At its core, a breakfast burrito includes:

• Fluffy scrambled eggs – The protein-packed base of any good burrito.
• Melted cheese – Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend for that gooey texture.
• A warm tortilla – Typically flour, but some prefer corn or whole wheat.
• A protein – Crispy bacon, juicy sausage, or spicy chorizo add flavor.
• Toppings & extras – Avocado, black beans, hash browns, salsa, or hot sauce elevate the experience.

How to Make the Perfect Breakfast Burrito at Home

Step-by-Step Recipe for a Classic Breakfast Burrito

Making a breakfast burrito at home is easier than you think! With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and filling morning meal in minutes. Here’s a foolproof recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 2 large flour tortillas
• 4 eggs
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cooked breakfast sausage or bacon
• ½ cup diced potatoes or hash browns
• ¼ cup diced onions and bell peppers
• 1 tablespoon butter or oil
• Salsa or hot sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the potatoes – In a skillet, heat oil and cook the potatoes until golden brown. Set aside.
2. Scramble the eggs – In the same pan, melt butter and scramble the eggs until fluffy. Remove from heat.
3. Warm the tortillas – Lightly heat the tortillas on a dry pan or microwave them for 10 seconds to make them more pliable.
4. Assemble the burrito – Layer eggs, cheese, sausage, potatoes, and veggies in the center of the tortilla. Add salsa if desired.
5. Wrap it up – Fold in the sides, then roll tightly from the bottom up.
6. Heat for a crispy finish – Lightly toast the burrito on a skillet for a crispy exterior.

Enjoy your breakfast burrito warm with your favorite side!

Tips for Fluffy Eggs and Crispy Tortillas

• Use medium heat when cooking eggs to keep them soft and fluffy.
• Add a splash of milk to the eggs for extra creaminess.
• Warm tortillas first to prevent cracking when rolling.
• Use a non-stick skillet to avoid burning the tortilla when crisping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Breakfast Burritos

• 🚫 Overfilling the burrito—makes it hard to roll and eat.
  🚫 Using cold tortillas—causes cracking and tearing.
  🚫 Skipping the toasting step—you miss out on that crispy, golden exterior!

Best Breakfast Burrito Recipes You Need to Try 

Spicy Chorizo and Egg Breakfast Burrito Recipe

Ingredients:

• ½ cup cooked chorizo
• 2 scrambled eggs
• ¼ cup shredded pepper jack cheese
• ¼ cup black beans
• 2 tablespoons salsa verde
• 1 large flour tortilla

Instructions:

1. Cook the chorizo until browned and crispy.
2. Scramble the eggs and mix with chorizo.
3. Warm the tortilla, then layer eggs, cheese, beans, and salsa.
4. Roll it up and toast in a pan for extra crispiness.

🔥 Pro tip: Add pickled jalapeños for an extra kick!

High-Protein Breakfast Burrito for Fitness Enthusiasts

For a post-workout breakfast burrito, this high-protein version fuels your body while keeping it delicious.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup scrambled egg whites
• ½ cup grilled chicken or turkey sausage
• ¼ cup sautéed spinach
• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella
• Whole wheat or spinach tortilla

Instructions:

1. Cook the egg whites until firm.
2. Slice the chicken and sauté the spinach.
3. Layer everything into the tortilla, wrap, and toast lightly.

💪 Packed with lean protein, fiber, and essential nutrients to keep you energized all day!

The Best Breakfast Burritos You Can Buy 

Not in the mood to cook? No problem! Whether you’re short on time or simply craving a quick, satisfying meal, these store-bought breakfast burritos will hit the spot. From frozen burritos to fast-food favorites, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Top Frozen Breakfast Burritos Ranked

Frozen breakfast burritos are a lifesaver for busy mornings. Since they’re pre-made, all you need to do is heat and eat! Here are some of the best-rated frozen breakfast burritos available:

1. Red’s Turkey Sausage Breakfast Burrito – Packed with protein and made with simple ingredients, this one is a healthy yet flavorful choice.
2. Amy’s Breakfast Burrito – A vegetarian-friendly burrito made with organic beans, cheese, and eggs for a wholesome start to the day.
3. El Monterey XXLarge Breakfast Burrito – Big, filling, and loaded with eggs, sausage, and cheese, making it perfect for extra-hungry mornings.
4. EVOL Breakfast Burrito – Known for its high-quality ingredients, this burrito features cage-free eggs and antibiotic-free meats.
5. Tina’s Breakfast Burrito – A budget-friendly option that still delivers on taste with a classic egg-and-sausage combo.

⭐ Pro tip: When buying frozen breakfast burritos, check the nutrition label for high-protein options with minimal artificial additives. This way, you can enjoy a quick meal without unnecessary preservatives.

Best Fast-Food Breakfast Burritos for a Quick Meal

Sometimes, a homemade breakfast just isn’t an option. Luckily, fast-food chains offer some tasty breakfast burritos when you’re on the go. Here are a few top picks:

• McDonald’s Sausage Burrito – A budget-friendly option with eggs, sausage, cheese, and mild green chilies for a little kick.
• Chick-fil-A Hash Brown Scramble Burrito – This one is extra hearty, combining eggs, crispy hash browns, cheese, and grilled chicken.
• Taco Bell Breakfast Crunchwrap – While not a traditional burrito, it’s a fan-favorite thanks to its crispy tortilla and flavorful fillings.
• Whataburger Breakfast Burrito – A straightforward yet delicious mix of eggs, cheese, and bacon wrapped in a soft tortilla.
• Wendy’s Breakfast Burrito – A newer menu item featuring bacon, eggs, and cheese, all in a warm tortilla.

Healthiest Store-Bought Breakfast Burrito Options

• If you’re trying to eat healthier, you don’t have to give up breakfast burritos entirely. Instead, choose these health-conscious options:
• ✅ 365 Organic Breakfast Burrito (Whole Foods) – Made with organic eggs, cheese, and black beans, this one keeps things simple and nutritious.
  ✅ Sweet Earth Protein Lover’s Burrito – A plant-based option that’s high in protein and packed with whole ingredients.
  ✅ Saffron Road Egg & Cheese Burrito – Made with cage-free eggs and no artificial preservatives, making it a cleaner option.

With so many choices available, finding the perfect breakfast burrito to fit your lifestyle is easier than ever! But did you know that different regions have their own unique take on this classic meal? Let’s explore some of the most exciting variations next!

Regional Variations of the Breakfast Burrito

Every region puts its own spin on the breakfast burrito, adding unique flavors and ingredients. While the basic concept remains the same, different locations have their own traditions that make each burrito style special. Let’s take a look at how breakfast burritos change from place to place.

Tex-Mex vs. California-Style Breakfast Burritos

The Tex-Mex breakfast burrito and the California-style burrito may look similar, but they offer distinct flavors and textures.

• Tex-Mex Style 🌮 – If you love bold, spicy flavors, this is the burrito for you! It’s packed with chorizo, refried beans, jalapeños, and queso. Plus, in some places, it’s smothered in salsa or chili sauce for an extra punch of flavor.
• California Style 🥑 – This version is all about fresh ingredients. The defining feature? Avocado or guacamole! In addition, California-style burritos often contain crispy hash browns instead of traditional beans, giving them a unique texture.

Both styles are delicious, but if you prefer a spicy, hearty burrito, Tex-Mex is the way to go. On the other hand, if you love fresh flavors and creamy textures, you’ll likely prefer the California version.

New York’s Take on the Breakfast Burrito

• New Yorkers have their own way of doing things, and breakfast burritos are no exception. Known as bodega-style burritos, these are simple yet satisfying. They typically include:
• ✔ Fluffy scrambled eggs
  ✔ American cheese
  ✔ Bacon or sausage
  ✔ Hot sauce or ketchup for an extra kick

Unlike Tex-Mex or California burritos, New York’s version is more about convenience than complexity. Because they’re available at nearly every corner store or deli, they’re a staple for busy mornings in the city.

🌍 Global Twist: While breakfast burritos are most popular in the U.S., variations exist worldwide. For example, in Spain, you might find burritos filled with chorizo and potatoes, while in Japan, some versions include teriyaki chicken and eggs.

Regardless of where you are, there’s a breakfast burrito to match every taste preference. Which one sounds the most tempting to you? 🌯

For more nutritious breakfast options, explore our list of Chinese Egg Rolls

Breakfast Burrito vs. Breakfast Tacos: Key Differences 

Both breakfast burritos and breakfast tacos are delicious ways to start the day. However, they have some key differences. While both are wrapped in tortillas and filled with morning favorites like eggs, cheese, and meats, their size, structure, and flavors set them apart.

Which One is More Filling?

A breakfast burrito is usually the heavier meal of the two. Wrapped in a large flour tortilla, it’s packed with ingredients like eggs, potatoes, cheese, sausage, bacon, and sometimes beans or avocado. Since everything is enclosed in a tortilla, it’s also much easier to eat on the go.

On the other hand, breakfast tacos are smaller and lighter. They are typically served on corn or small flour tortillas and contain one or two simple fillings, such as scrambled eggs with chorizo or cheese with avocado. Because of their size, you may need to eat two or three tacos to feel as full as you would with a burrito.

Flavor Profile Differences Between the Two

While both options are packed with flavor, the eating experience is different:

• Breakfast burritos tend to have blended flavors, as all the ingredients mix together inside the tortilla.
• Breakfast tacos allow you to taste each ingredient separately, offering a fresher, more distinct bite.
• Additionally, tacos are usually served with more toppings, such as fresh cilantro, diced onions, or crumbled queso fresco, which enhance the flavor even more.

Which is Easier to Make at Home?

If you’re in a rush, breakfast tacos are the quickest option since they require less filling and no rolling. However, if you want a more portable and satisfying meal, a breakfast burrito is definitely worth the extra effort.

But if you want a hearty, all-in-one breakfast, nothing beats a burrito!

Are Breakfast Burritos Healthy? Nutrition Breakdown 

A breakfast burrito can be both delicious and nutritious, but it all depends on the ingredients. Some burritos are packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, while others can be loaded with extra calories, sodium, and fat. Therefore, knowing what goes inside can help you make a better choice.

Calories, Protein, and Carb Content in a Breakfast Burrito

• A standard fast-food breakfast burrito can contain anywhere from 300 to 700 calories, depending on the ingredients. Here’s a general breakdown:
• ✅ Eggs – High in protein and packed with essential vitamins like B12.
  ✅ Cheese – Adds calcium and protein, but it can be high in saturated fat.
  ✅ Meat (bacon, sausage, chorizo) – A good source of protein, but also high in sodium and fat.
  ✅ Tortilla – A flour tortilla alone can add 150-200 calories, while a whole wheat option is higher in fiber and more nutritious.

How to Make a Healthier Breakfast Burrito

• If you love breakfast burritos but want a healthier version, here are some easy swaps to consider:
• ✔ Use whole wheat or low-carb tortillas instead of white flour tortillas to cut down on refined carbs.
  ✔ Opt for reduced-fat cheese to lower your intake of saturated fat.
  ✔ Choose lean proteins like turkey sausage, chicken, or black beans instead of chorizo.

Best Low-Calorie and Low-Carb Breakfast Burrito Options

If you’re watching your calories or carbs, consider these healthier alternatives:

• Egg white breakfast burrito – Cuts calories while keeping protein levels high.
• Vegetarian burrito with black beans – Lower in fat and packed with fiber, making it more filling.
• Lettuce wrap burrito – Skip the tortilla for a low-carb alternative while still enjoying all the flavors.

With just a few smart ingredient choices, your breakfast burrito can be both nutritious and satisfying. Now, you can enjoy all the flavors you love while keeping your meal balanced!

Breakfast Burrito Pairings: What to Eat with It 

A breakfast burrito is already a complete meal, but the right pairings can make it even better. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing drink, a crunchy side, or an extra sauce to enhance the flavor, there are plenty of great options to consider.

Best Drinks to Pair with a Breakfast Burrito

A delicious breakfast burrito deserves a drink that complements its flavors. Depending on whether you prefer something light, bold, or creamy, here are some great choices:

• Fresh Orange Juice – The bright citrus flavor cuts through the richness of eggs, cheese, and meat.
• Iced Coffee or Cold Brew – A strong coffee balances out the hearty, savory flavors of the burrito.
• Green Smoothie – If you’re looking to add extra nutrition, a smoothie with spinach, banana, and almond milk pairs surprisingly well.

Side Dishes That Complement Breakfast Burritos

While a breakfast burrito is filling on its own, adding a side dish makes the meal feel even more satisfying. Here are some great options:

• Crispy Hash Browns – They add a delicious crunch that contrasts well with the soft tortilla.
• Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of berries, melon, and citrus lightens up a heavy burrito.

Sauces and Condiments for Extra Flavor

• Finally, a great sauce can take your breakfast burrito to the next level. Some must-try options include:
  ✔ Salsa Verde – Tangy and slightly spicy, perfect for a fresh bite.
  ✔ Chipotle Mayo – A smoky, creamy sauce that pairs well with eggs and bacon.
  ✔ Pico de Gallo – A classic fresh tomato salsa for extra zest.

With the right drink, side, and sauce, your breakfast burrito will feel like a restaurant-quality meal.

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FAQs About Breakfast Burritos 

People often have questions about breakfast burritos, whether it’s about ingredients, storage, or the best way to reheat them. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions and their answers.

What’s the Best Cheese for a Breakfast Burrito?

The right cheese makes a big difference in flavor and texture. Some of the best options include:

• Cheddar Cheese – Sharp and melty, great for classic burritos.
• Monterey Jack – Mild and creamy, pairs well with spicy fillings.
• Pepper Jack – Adds a little heat for extra kick.

If you prefer a dairy-free option, vegan cheese shreds or nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Can You Meal Prep Breakfast Burritos?

Absolutely! Breakfast burritos are one of the best meal prep options because they store well and reheat easily. Here’s how:

• Make a batch ahead of time and wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
• Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat in the microwave for a quick option, or toast in a pan for a crispy texture.

For best results, avoid adding ingredients that release too much moisture, like fresh tomatoes or too much sour cream.

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