Sweet Potato and Black Bean Breakfast Burritos

For a wholesome and flavorful morning meal, try a sweet potato and black bean breakfast burrito. You can make a traditional version with scrambled eggs or a vegan one with tofu. These burritos are also excellent for meal prepping and can be frozen and reheated on busy mornings.

Ingredients

For the filling:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large sweet potato, diced into ½-inch cubes (about 2 cups)
• ½ medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4–6 large burrito-sized tortillas 

If adding eggs (for a non-vegan version):

• 6 large eggs
• ½ cup shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese 

For serving (optional):

• Salsa or hot sauce
• Avocado, diced or mashed
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt 

Instructions

1. Roast the sweet potatoes and onions: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the diced sweet potato and onion with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Spread in an even layer and roast for 20–30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
2. Prepare the black beans: While the vegetables roast, warm the rinsed black beans in a small saucepan over low heat, or simply add them to the baking sheet during the last 5 minutes of roasting to heat through.
3. Cook the eggs (if using): In a skillet over medium-low heat, scramble the eggs until they are just cooked through. Stir in the cheese at the very end and remove from the heat.
4. Warm the tortillas: For easier rolling, heat the tortillas for 15–20 seconds in the microwave or in a dry skillet.
5. Assemble the burritos: Lay a tortilla on a clean surface. Place a line of the roasted sweet potato and onion mixture in the center. Top with the warm black beans, scrambled eggs and cheese (if using), and any other desired toppings like salsa, avocado, or cilantro.
6. Roll the burritos: Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then pull the bottom flap over the filling and roll it tightly toward the top.
7. Serve or store: Serve the burritos immediately, or wrap them in aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy storage. 

Freezer instructions

For a quick, make-ahead meal:

1. Wrap each fully assembled burrito tightly in aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
2. Freeze for up to 3 months.
3. To reheat from frozen: Remove the foil and microwave for 1–2 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispier tortilla, you can finish it in a pan with a little oil after microwaving. 

Sweet potato and black bean breakfast burritos healthy?

Yes, sweet potato and black bean breakfast burritos can be a very healthy meal, depending on the ingredients and preparation. They are also easy to make without eggs for a delicious vegan option. 

How they can be healthy

• High in fiber and protein: Both black beans and sweet potatoes are excellent sources of dietary fiber and plant-based protein, which helps you stay full and energized longer.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals: Sweet potatoes are packed with Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and manganese, while black beans provide iron, magnesium, and folate.
• Source of complex carbohydrates: Sweet potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, which offer sustained energy instead of a sugar crash.
• Customizable with fresh ingredients: Adding fresh salsa, avocado, spinach, or cilantro boosts the flavor and adds more vitamins and antioxidants. 

Potential pitfalls to watch out for

• Tortilla choice: Some large flour tortillas can be high in calories and refined carbohydrates. Choosing smaller, whole-wheat, or low-carb tortillas is a healthier alternative.
• High-fat add-ons: Ingredients like excessive cheese and sour cream can increase the saturated fat and calorie content. Consider using smaller amounts or healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt or avocado.
• High sodium: Canned black beans can be high in sodium. Rinsing them well or buying low-sodium varieties can help. 

If you’re looking for more breakfast recipes like Black Bean Breakfast Bowl and Baked Oatmeal with Berries and Nuts subscribe to join us.