The Low Carb Breakfast Burrito Bowl is a fresh, flavorful way to start your day without all the extra carbs. It’s packed with ingredients like scrambled eggs, sautéed veggies, savory sausage or bacon, and a sprinkle of cheese, all layered together in a bowl. The textures and colors make it just as fun to look at as it is to eat.
I love making this bowl when I want something filling but light enough to keep me energized through the morning. One of my favorite things is adding a dollop of salsa or avocado on top—that little extra touch really brings the whole bowl together. It’s easy to mix and match what you have on hand, so you can keep it interesting every time you make it.
This breakfast bowl feels like a warm hug on a plate, especially when you’re on the go or need something quick but tasty. I find it’s a great way to enjoy all the flavors of a burrito without the tortilla, making it perfect for low carb days. Plus, it’s a bowl that everyone in my family loves, and that says a lot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Quinoa: This grain-like seed adds a nice texture and protein boost. If you want even fewer carbs, try cauliflower rice instead—it’s fresh and light.
Egg: A sunny side up egg with a runny yolk adds richness. If you prefer, scrambled or poached eggs also work well.
Bacon & Chorizo: These bring smoky, savory flavors. Turkey bacon or plant-based sausage are great swaps for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Avocado: Creamy avocado cools the spices and adds healthy fats. You can use guacamole or sliced avocado consistently fresh for the best taste.
Cheese: Cheddar adds a sharp bite. You can use pepper jack for a little heat or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
How Can I Get the Perfect Sunny Side Up Egg for This Bowl?
A good sunny side up egg is key—it adds creaminess when the yolk breaks. Here’s how I do it:
- Heat a non-stick pan on medium and add a little oil or butter.
- Crack the egg gently into the pan without breaking the yolk.
- Cook slowly so the whites set but the yolk stays runny (about 2–3 minutes).
- For firmer whites on top, cover the pan with a lid for the last minute.
- Sprinkle with spices and salt right after cooking.
This method keeps your egg tender with a bright, runny center that ties the bowl together perfectly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Non-stick skillet – perfect for frying the egg without sticking or breaking the yolk.
- Medium sauté pan – helps cook bacon, sausage, and veggies evenly in one place.
- Small saucepan or pot – to cook quinoa or cauliflower rice with ease.
- Sharp knife – makes dicing tomatoes and slicing avocado quick and neat.
- Cutting board – keeps your workspace clean and safe for chopping ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon and chorizo for diced smoked turkey for a leaner protein option.
- Add sautéed bell peppers and onions for extra sweetness and color.
- Top with crumbled feta or queso fresco for a tangy twist.
- Mix in fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit more heat.
Low Carb Breakfast Burrito Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa (for a low-carb grain alternative)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup cooked chorizo or breakfast sausage crumbles
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes, cooked lightly with spices (like cumin and chili powder)
- 1/2 small avocado, sliced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime wedge
- 1/4 cup chopped kale or spinach, sautéed or steamed
- 1/2 tsp chili powder or smoked paprika (for sprinkling on egg)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp olive oil or butter for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. Cooking the quinoa and prepping the ingredients will take around 10 minutes, and cooking the bacon, sausage, sautéing the tomatoes, and frying the egg will take another 10 minutes. Assembly is quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Quinoa:
Follow package instructions to cook 1/2 cup quinoa. Once it’s cooked, set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Cook Bacon and Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Place the cooked bacon on paper towels to drain and reserve some bacon fat in the pan. Then add the chorizo or sausage crumbles to the same pan and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté Tomatoes:
Using the same skillet, lightly sauté diced tomatoes with a pinch of cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until they soften and the flavors meld.
4. Fry the Egg:
In a small pan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Fry the egg sunny side up until the edges turn crispy and the yolk is just set but still runny. Sprinkle chili powder or smoked paprika, along with salt and pepper, on top of the egg.
5. Assemble the Bowl:
Begin by placing the cooked quinoa at the bottom of your bowl. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and sautéed kale or spinach. Add the cooked tomatoes, bacon, sausage or chorizo, and gently place the fried egg on top. Finally, add the sliced avocado and sprinkle fresh cilantro over everything.
6. Serve:
Place a lime wedge on the side for squeezing over the bowl just before eating to add a fresh, tangy kick.
This Low Carb Breakfast Burrito Bowl gives you all the delicious flavors of a traditional burrito without the extra carbs of a tortilla. High in protein and healthy fats, it’s a perfect satisfying start to your day!
Can I Substitute Quinoa for Another Low-Carb Base?
Yes! Cauliflower rice is an excellent low-carb substitute that cooks quickly and pairs well with the flavors in this bowl. Just sauté or steam it before assembling.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover components in airtight containers separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, then assemble fresh avocado and egg just before eating for best texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the bacon and sausage, then add more sautéed veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or black beans for extra protein and flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Egg for This Bowl?
A sunny side up egg with a runny yolk adds richness and creaminess. Cook it slowly in a little oil or butter over medium heat, and cover the pan briefly if needed to set the whites without overcooking the yolk.