Shrimp Spinach Breakfast Burritos

A bright and satisfying way to start your day these Shrimp and Spinach Breakfast Burritos offer a delicious twist on the classic morning wrap They are packed with juicy shrimp sweet sautéed peppers tender spinach fluffy eggs and gooey cheddar cheese all snuggled in a warm flour tortilla My family loves them for weekend brunches and they make any morning feel a bit special

The first time I made these was for a Saturday brunch when we wanted something filling but light Not a crumb was left on the plates and now they are my go to for overnight guests

Ingredients

• Medium shrimp peeled and deveined: gives lovely sweetness and protein If possible choose wild caught or certified sustainable shrimp for best flavor and ethics
• Fresh spinach roughly chopped: brings color and nutrition Be sure the leaves look vibrant and crisp not wilted
• Red bell pepper diced: adds juicy crunch and a little natural sweetness Use firm bright peppers for freshness
• Small onion finely chopped: builds aromatic depth Look for onions that feel heavy for their size without any soft spots
• Large eggs: create a creamy well set filling Choose the freshest options for fluffiest results
• Whole milk: makes the eggs extra tender and luxurious Use whole milk for richer results or substitute with your favorite plant milk if desired
• Shredded cheddar cheese: melts beautifully and gives sharpness Opt for freshly shredded cheese for the best melt
• Flour tortillas: soft and flexible wraps everything up Neatly warm slightly before filling to prevent tearing
• Smoked paprika: brings subtle smokiness and color Spanish varieties are especially flavorful
• Ground black pepper freshly cracked: adds zesty contrast to the richness
• Salt: seasons each layer and heightens the other flavors Use fine salt for even distribution
• Olive oil: a foundation for sautéing and flavor Use extra virgin for the best taste
• Salsa sour cream cilantro avocado slices: offer freshness and creamy contrast Choose ripe avocados and the freshest herbs for garnish

Instructions

Prepare Egg Mixture:

In a medium bowl whisk eggs with milk salt and pepper until smooth This ensures tender scrambled eggs that cook evenly

Sauté Aromatics and Peppers:

In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat warm half the olive oil Add chopped onion and bell pepper Sauté gently for about three minutes stirring regularly until the vegetables are soft and aromatic without browning

Cook Shrimp:

Add shrimp and smoked paprika to the skillet Stir and cook for two or three minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through Remove the shrimp and vegetables from the pan and set aside This keeps the shrimp juicy

Wilt Spinach:

Add the spinach to the still warm skillet Sauté quickly for a minute or two until just wilted Combine with the shrimp mixture and wipe out the skillet to prevent sticking

Scramble Eggs:

Reduce the heat to low Add the remaining olive oil Pour in the egg mixture Gently fold and stir the eggs with a spatula until they are softly set and still creamy This step is key for luxurious texture

Combine and Finish Filling:

Return the shrimp peppers and spinach to the skillet Stir together gently for even distribution then remove from heat You want the filling to be warm but not overcooked

Warm Tortillas:

Heat tortillas one at a time in a dry skillet or briefly microwave until soft and flexible This step helps prevent cracks when rolling

Assemble Burritos:

Evenly divide the shrimp egg and veggie mixture among the tortillas Top each with a generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese

Roll Up Burritos:

Fold the sides of the tortillas in then roll up tightly from the bottom to make sure everything stays inside Place seam side down

Toast Burritos Optional:

If you like a crisp finish toast each burrito seam side down in the skillet for one or two minutes until golden This adds crunch and helps seal the burrito

Serve:

Cut in half if desired and serve immediately with salsa sour cream avocado and extra herbs on the side

Save

My favorite part has to be the shrimp They absorb all the smoky flavors from the paprika and herbs Each family weekend someone always asks for a double batch because the flavors are just that craveworthy

Storage Tips

To store leftovers wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap Keep refrigerated for up to two days Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave for best texture Avoid freezing if using spinach as it can make the burritos watery though you can freeze just the egg and shrimp filling for up to one month Thaw overnight in the fridge before rolling and reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap out fresh spinach for kale or baby arugula for a heartier or more peppery bite Lactose free cheese or your preferred milk alternative works well for those avoiding dairy If you do not have smoked paprika regular paprika or chili powder adds gentle warmth For a spicy kick include jalapeños with the peppers or stir a little hot sauce into the egg mixture

Serving Suggestions

Pair these burritos with a crisp fruit salad or a glass of cold orange juice for contrast They are also delicious served with roasted potatoes or tortilla chips Bring out bright toppings like salsa verde a squeeze of lime or fresh pico de gallo for even more flavor

Cultural Context

This burrito draws on both American breakfast traditions and Mexican style handheld wraps Shrimp is a nod to coastal cuisine in both countries making it a fun fusion brunch option for all kinds of eaters

Seasonal Adaptations

In winter swap spinach for sautéed mushrooms or roasted sweet potato for extra warmth In summer load up with fresh herbs like cilantro and basil for a garden feel Early spring is a great time for tender baby greens or asparagus

Success Stories

These breakfast burritos have saved the day on countless busy mornings My college roommate became a fan after her first bite and now she requests them every time she visits They are perfect for brunch parties since you can prep the filling ahead roll up the burritos right before guests arrive and toast them as needed

Freezer Meal Conversion

It is easy to turn this into a freezer breakfast meal Just prepare the filling and cool completely Omit the cheese if freezing as it can sometimes become grainy Layer the filling into tortillas wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to one month To serve thaw overnight or microwave straight from frozen then toast so the tortilla crisps up and the cheese melts

Save

Enjoy these flavorful burritos with your favorite toppings for a special brunch or busy weekday treat Every bite is packed with energy and satisfying crunch

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I substitute spinach with another leafy green?

Yes, you can use kale or baby arugula instead of spinach for a similar texture and flavor.

→ How do I make these gluten-free?

Swap the flour tortillas for certified gluten-free corn tortillas to suit dietary needs.

→ What is the best way to keep burritos warm?

Wrap them in foil and keep in a low oven or a warming drawer until ready to serve.

→ Can I add more spice?

Absolutely! Include jalapeño or drizzle hot sauce into the scrambled eggs for extra heat.

→ Are these burritos suitable for meal prep?

Yes, prepare in advance, wrap tightly, and refrigerate. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

→ Which cheese can I use besides cheddar?

Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese work great, offering creaminess or zest.