If you love the comforting flavors of Southern cuisine and the bold, zesty taste of Mexican food, these Southern Sausage Enchiladas with Creamy Gravy will be your new favorite dish. This recipe takes the heartiness of a classic Southern-style sausage gravy and pairs it with soft tortillas filled with flavorful sausage, cheese, and just the right amount of spice. The result? A rich, creamy, and irresistibly savory dish that brings together the best of both worlds.
Unlike traditional enchiladas, which are often covered in a red or green sauce, this version features a smooth, velvety cream gravy infused with the deep flavors of seasoned sausage. The tortillas are gently rolled around a savory sausage filling, then smothered in gravy and baked until golden and bubbly. The dish is then topped with fresh herbs, melted cheese, and a sprinkle of crispy onions for an added crunch.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, these Southern-style enchiladas are a delightful twist on a beloved classic. Serve them with a side of buttery biscuits, roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. Whether you’re making them for a cozy family gathering or a weekend brunch, these Southern Sausage Enchiladas are sure to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love These Southern Sausage Enchiladas
Few dishes offer the same level of comfort and indulgence as a plate of creamy, gravy-smothered enchiladas. The combination of savory sausage, warm tortillas, and rich, homemade gravy creates a meal that is both satisfying and deeply flavorful. Every bite is filled with tender, seasoned meat and melty cheese, wrapped in soft tortillas and drenched in a creamy sauce that is so good, you’ll want to eat it with a spoon.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. While it’s decadent enough to be a special weekend treat, it’s also easy enough for a weeknight dinner. The ingredients are simple and accessible, yet they come together to create a dish that feels restaurant-worthy. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite spices, cheeses, or even a bit of heat for an extra kick.
Another reason to love these enchiladas is their crowd-pleasing nature. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or serving guests at a brunch gathering, these enchiladas are guaranteed to disappear quickly. The creamy sausage gravy takes the dish to another level, providing a Southern touch that makes this meal feel both familiar and excitingly new.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 enchiladas (serves 3-4)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Ingredients for Southern Sausage Enchiladas with Creamy Gravy
For the Filling:
- 1 lb beef or turkey sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 6 medium flour tortillas
For the Creamy Gravy:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- ¼ cup cooked sausage crumbles (reserved from filling)
For Topping:
- ¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or green onions
- ¼ cup crispy fried onions (optional, for crunch)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Southern Sausage Enchiladas with Creamy Gravy
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage Filling
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the beef or turkey sausage. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and continue cooking until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
Season the mixture with smoked paprika, black pepper, and dried thyme, stirring well to combine. Remove from heat and set aside. Reserve ¼ cup of the cooked sausage to use in the gravy later.
Step 2: Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lay out the flour tortillas and divide the sausage mixture evenly among them. Sprinkle a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the sausage, then gently roll each tortilla into a tight wrap. Place them seam-side down in a lightly greased baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Gravy
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously, until it forms a light roux.
Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy gravy, about 3-5 minutes.
Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir in the reserved ¼ cup of cooked sausage crumbles for extra flavor.
Step 4: Smother and Bake
Pour the creamy gravy evenly over the assembled enchiladas, making sure they are well-coated. Sprinkle an extra ¼ cup of shredded cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden finish, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and sprinkle crispy fried onions on top for added crunch.
Serve hot with a side of buttered biscuits, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad. Enjoy every bite of this creamy, cheesy, and savory Southern-Mexican fusion!
Ingredient Background
Sausage
The foundation of this dish lies in its savory sausage filling. Traditionally, Southern cuisine uses seasoned sausage with a bold, smoky flavor that enhances the dish’s richness. A blend of black pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme deepens the flavor, making every bite irresistibly delicious. While pork sausage is common, this recipe uses beef or turkey sausage for a leaner yet still flavorful alternative.
Flour Tortillas
Soft flour tortillas work best for these enchiladas, as they hold the filling well and absorb the creamy gravy beautifully. Unlike corn tortillas, which are often used in Mexican enchiladas, flour tortillas offer a more neutral, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the Southern-style sausage and creamy sauce.
Creamy Gravy
A good Southern-style white gravy is smooth, velvety, and deeply satisfying. Made with butter, flour, milk, and heavy cream, it thickens into a luscious sauce that coats every inch of the enchiladas. The addition of cooked sausage crumbles enhances the gravy, infusing it with a rich, meaty depth that takes this dish to another level.
Technique Tips for Southern Sausage Enchiladas
1. Keep the Sausage Filling Moist
One of the keys to making flavorful enchiladas is ensuring the sausage mixture doesn’t dry out. Cooking the onions and garlic with the sausage helps retain moisture while infusing extra flavor. If the mixture feels too dry, adding a small splash of milk or broth can help keep it tender and juicy.
2. Prevent Soggy Tortillas
Since flour tortillas tend to absorb moisture, you want to avoid overloading them with too much gravy before baking. The best approach is to pour most of the gravy over the enchiladas just before serving, rather than letting them soak in the sauce too long in the oven. This keeps the tortillas from getting too soft while still allowing them to absorb enough flavor.
3. Get the Perfect Gravy Consistency
A common mistake when making gravy is not whisking enough, which can lead to lumps. To achieve a smooth, lump-free sauce, whisk continuously when adding the milk and cream to the roux. If the gravy becomes too thick, a splash of warm milk or broth can loosen it to the perfect consistency.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
1. Sausage Enchilada Bake
Instead of rolling individual enchiladas, try layering everything into a casserole-style bake. Spread a layer of tortillas at the bottom, followed by sausage filling, cheese, and creamy gravy. Repeat the layers and bake until golden and bubbly.
2. Open-Faced Smothered Enchiladas
For a deconstructed version, place unrolled tortillas on a plate, top them with sausage filling, then generously ladle the creamy gravy on top. Garnish with fresh herbs and crispy onions for a Southern-style open-faced delight.
3. Enchilada Breakfast Skillet
Turn this dish into a hearty breakfast skillet by layering crispy hash browns at the bottom of a cast-iron skillet, then topping them with sausage, cheese, and gravy. Bake until bubbly, then serve with warm tortillas on the side.
Freezing and Storing Southern Sausage Enchiladas
1. Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover enchiladas, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent them from becoming too soft, keep the creamy gravy separate and pour it over when reheating.
2. Freezing Uncooked Enchiladas
To freeze before baking, assemble the enchiladas but do not add the gravy. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then cover with gravy before baking.
3. Reheating Instructions
For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. If reheating in the microwave, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Healthier Twist Ideas
1. Lighten Up the Gravy
For a healthier version of the creamy gravy, swap out heavy cream for low-fat milk or use Greek yogurt for a creamy, protein-rich alternative. You can also thicken the gravy with cornstarch instead of flour for a lighter, gluten-free option.
2. Use Whole Wheat or Low-Carb Tortillas
Replace traditional flour tortillas with whole wheat or low-carb tortillas for extra fiber and fewer carbs. They provide a slightly nuttier flavor while still holding up well to the sausage filling.
3. Try a Leaner Protein
Instead of traditional sausage, use ground turkey or chicken seasoned with smoked paprika and black pepper for a similar depth of flavor with less fat. Adding finely chopped mushrooms or bell peppers can also boost nutrition while keeping the filling moist.
Serving Suggestions for Events
1. Brunch Party Favorite
For a Southern brunch spread, serve these enchiladas alongside buttermilk biscuits, scrambled eggs, and roasted breakfast potatoes. A glass of fresh orange juice or iced tea makes the perfect pairing.
2. Cozy Family Dinner
Make this dish the star of a family dinner night by serving it with steamed green beans, buttery cornbread, and a crisp side salad. The creamy sauce complements the freshness of the greens perfectly.
3. Game Day Comfort Food
For a game-day feast, set up a DIY enchilada bar, where guests can top their enchiladas with different garnishes like hot sauce, avocado slices, and crispy onions. Serve with loaded mashed potatoes or mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, then bake when ready. Add the gravy just before baking for the best texture.
2. What cheese works best for this dish?
A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts beautifully while complementing the savory sausage. For extra flavor, try pepper jack for a slight kick.
3. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Flour tortillas work best for this dish, but if you prefer corn tortillas, warm them slightly before rolling to prevent cracking.
4. What’s the best way to thicken the gravy?
If the gravy is too thin, let it simmer for an extra few minutes, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water).
5. Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! Add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the sausage filling for an extra kick.
6. How do I keep enchiladas from getting soggy?
Refrigerate before baking and add most of the gravy just before serving to prevent excess moisture.
7. What’s a good side dish for these enchiladas?
Pair them with steamed vegetables, coleslaw, or a light fruit salad to balance the richness.
8. Can I use a plant-based sausage for this recipe?
Yes! A high-quality meatless sausage alternative works well and still delivers great flavor.
Conclusion
These Southern Sausage Enchiladas with Creamy Gravy are the perfect fusion of comforting Southern flavors and bold Mexican tradition. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner, a special brunch, or a holiday gathering, they deliver rich, creamy, and indulgent goodness in every bite. Try them out, and let this dish bring a little extra warmth to your table!
Welcome to Cozy dishes! I’m Louise, and this is your warm, welcoming kitchen corner filled with feel-good recipes that bring comfort to everyday moments. Whether you’re making a simple dinner or baking something sweet, you’ll find cozy, approachable dishes made with heart.
