Breakfast Tacos Recipe
Breakfast tacos are a beloved breakfast staple for a reason: they’re delicious, customizable, and incredibly easy to make. Ever found yourself staring into the abyss of your refrigerator at 7 AM, pondering what to have for breakfast?
Well, you’re not alone. If you thought tacos were just a Tuesday thing, prepare to have your mind blown.
Some say this recipe was born in the heart of Texas, where cowboys needed a hearty meal to wrangle cattle and their hunger.
Others claim it was a stroke of genius from a Tex-Mex grandma who believed every meal should be a fiesta. I just love it and I hope you do too!
What are Breakfast Tacos?
Breakfast tacos are essentially tacos filled with breakfast-style ingredients. Think scrambled eggs, crispy bacon or sausage, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings.
They’re a versatile dish that allows for endless customization, making them perfect for satisfying any craving.
Unlike their dinner counterparts, breakfast tacos often feature a softer, more pliable tortilla, sometimes even a flour tortilla instead of corn.
Choosing the Right Tortillas
The tortilla is the foundation of any great taco, and breakfast tacos are no exception. While corn tortillas are traditional, flour tortillas offer a softer, more flexible base that holds up well to the ingredients. Consider the following:
- Small size: 6-inch tortillas are perfect for easy handling and portion control.
- Freshness: Use tortillas that are as fresh as possible for the best flavor and texture. Warming them slightly before filling enhances their flavor.
- Type: Experiment with different types of tortillas to find your preference. Some people prefer the slightly grainy texture of corn tortillas, while others favor the soft, pliable nature of flour tortillas. You could even try whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option.
The Filling
Here’s where things get interesting. The possibilities are as endless as a politician’s promises. Let’s break down some fan favorites:
- The Classic: Scrambled eggs, bacon, cheese. It’s like the little black dress of breakfast tacos: simple, elegant, and always a good choice.
- The Adventurer: Chorizo, potatoes, onions, cilantro. For those who like their mornings with a side of adventure and a dash of spice.
- The Health Nut: Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, avocado.
- The Kitchen Sink: Everything but the kitchen sink. Leftover steak? Throw it in. Random veggies from last night’s dinner? Why not?
How to Make the Perfect Breakfast Taco Filling
The filling is the star of the show! Here’s a breakdown of how to create a delicious and satisfying filling for your breakfast tacos:
Scrambled Eggs:
Scramble your eggs with a little milk or cream for extra fluffiness. Season with salt, pepper, and maybe a dash of your favorite spices like cumin or chili powder. Don’t overcook them; you want them tender and moist.
Protein Power:
Bacon, sausage, chorizo, or even leftover steak or chicken can all add delicious protein to your breakfast tacos. Cook your protein until crispy or well-done, depending on your preference. You can even add some black beans for extra flavor and protein.
Cheese Please:
Shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses are all excellent choices. The cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy, savory flavor.
Fresh Toppings:
Don’t forget the toppings! Fresh ingredients such as salsa, pico de gallo, avocado, sour cream, or Greek yogurt can elevate your breakfast tacos to the next level. Consider adding some chopped cilantro or onions for extra zest.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients for Breakfast Tacos:
For the Filling:
- 6 small flour or corn tortillas (warm them up for the perfect texture)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk (optional, for fluffier eggs)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil (for cooking the eggs)
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, bacon, or chorizo (crumbled or diced)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- ½ cup diced bell peppers (optional, for extra crunch)
For the Toppings:
- 1 avocado, sliced or mashed
- Salsa or pico de gallo
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Hot sauce (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Lime wedges for squeezing
Instructions:
Step 1: Warm Your Tortillas
Start by warming up your tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or wrap them in foil and place them in a warm oven.
Warm tortillas are soft, pliable, and make assembling the tacos easier.
Step 2: Cook the Protein
If using breakfast sausage, bacon, or chorizo, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp. Drain any excess grease and set the cooked protein aside on a plate.
This step can be skipped if you’re using pre-cooked sausage or another protein.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (if using), salt, and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of butter or oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
Pour in the egg mixture and cook gently, stirring frequently, until the eggs are soft and just set. Avoid overcooking—they should be fluffy and slightly creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
Now comes the fun part! Lay your warm tortillas on a flat surface and start layering:
- Add a scoop of scrambled eggs.
- Sprinkle on the cooked sausage, bacon, or chorizo.
- Add shredded cheese, letting it melt slightly from the heat of the eggs.
- Toss on any extras like diced bell peppers or sautéed veggies.
Step 5: Top It Off
Finish your tacos with your favorite toppings. Slices of avocado or a dollop of guacamole add creaminess, while salsa or pico de gallo brings fresh acidity.
Sprinkle on chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor, and don’t forget a squeeze of lime for that zesty touch. For those who love heat, a drizzle of hot sauce is the perfect way to kick it up a notch.
Variations on Breakfast Tacos
The beauty of breakfast tacos is their versatility. Experiment with different fillings and toppings to find your perfect combination. Here are a few ideas:
- Veggie Breakfast Tacos: Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and spinach make a delicious vegetarian filling.
- Spicy Breakfast Tacos: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Breakfast Burritos (similar to Tacos): Use larger tortillas and fill them generously for a heartier breakfast.
- Sweet Breakfast Tacos: Try a sweeter variation by adding fruit such as berries or bananas.
Tips for Success
- Make It Your Own: Breakfast tacos are endlessly customizable. Swap out the sausage for black beans or mushrooms for a vegetarian option, or use shredded chicken or steak for a heartier version.
- Prep Ahead: To save time, cook the protein and chop any veggies the night before.
- Warm Tortillas Are Key: Always warm your tortillas before assembling to prevent them from cracking and to enhance the flavor and texture.
How to Store Breakfast Tacos Leftovers
Refrigerating:
If you have leftover fillings (eggs, protein, or veggies), let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep tortillas and toppings separate for maximum freshness.
Freezing:
You can freeze pre-assembled tacos for a quick breakfast option. Wrap each taco individually in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- In the Microwave: For fillings, heat in a microwave-safe dish in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally. If reheating pre-assembled tacos, microwave for 45-60 seconds.
- In the Oven: Wrap the tacos in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Still have questions? Here are some frequently asked questions about making breakfast tacos:
To prevent soggy tacos, make sure your fillings aren’t too wet. Drain any excess liquid from your cooked ingredients. Also, warm the tortillas just before filling them; this will make them slightly more resistant to moisture.
Breakfast tacos pair well with a variety of sides, including fresh fruit, potatoes (both home fries and roasted), and breakfast beverages such as mimosas, orange juice, or coffee.
While it’s best to assemble and eat breakfast tacos fresh, you can prepare the fillings in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Warm the tortillas and assemble the tacos just before serving.
Breakfast Tacos Recipe
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 6 small flour or corn tortillas warm them up for the perfect texture
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk optional, for fluffier eggs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil for cooking the eggs
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage bacon, or chorizo (crumbled or diced)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese
- ½ cup diced bell peppers optional, for extra crunch
For the Toppings:
- 1 avocado sliced or mashed
- Salsa or pico de gallo
- Fresh cilantro chopped
- Hot sauce optional, for a spicy kick
- Lime wedges for squeezing
Instructions
Step 1: Warm Your Tortillas
- Start by warming up your tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or wrap them in foil and place them in a warm oven. Warm tortillas are soft, pliable, and make assembling the tacos easier.
Step 2: Cook the Protein
- If using breakfast sausage, bacon, or chorizo, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp. Drain any excess grease and set the cooked protein aside on a plate. This step can be skipped if you’re using pre-cooked sausage or another protein.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (if using), salt, and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of butter or oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Pour in the egg mixture and cook gently, stirring frequently, until the eggs are soft and just set. Avoid overcooking—they should be fluffy and slightly creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
- Now comes the fun part! Lay your warm tortillas on a flat surface and start layering:
- Add a scoop of scrambled eggs.Sprinkle on the cooked sausage, bacon, or chorizo.Add shredded cheese, letting it melt slightly from the heat of the eggs.Toss on any extras like diced bell peppers or sautéed veggies.
Step 5: Top It Off
- Finish your tacos with your favorite toppings. Slices of avocado or a dollop of guacamole add creaminess, while salsa or pico de gallo brings fresh acidity. Sprinkle on chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor, and don’t forget a squeeze of lime for that zesty touch. For those who love heat, a drizzle of hot sauce is the perfect way to kick it up a notch.