Chilaquiles breakfast casserole has become my go-to for busy mornings, and I’m so excited to share this version with you! I still remember the first time I tried a homemade chilaquiles breakfast bake – the salty crunch of the chips, the savory salsa, and the gooey cheese all baked together was pure magic. This easy chilaquiles breakfast casserole brings that same comforting flavor to your table with minimal fuss. It’s the perfect way to elevate your breakfast or brunch, and the aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole
You’ll absolutely adore this dish for so many reasons:
- The incredible flavor combination of tangy salsa, savory meat, and melty cheese is a breakfast dream.
- It’s a super quick prep time, making it perfect for busy weekdays.
- You can easily tailor this chilaquiles casserole recipe to your family’s preferences.
- It’s a budget-friendly way to feed a crowd or have delicious leftovers.
- This baked chilaquiles breakfast casserole is incredibly family-friendly, even picky eaters love it!
- It’s a satisfying and hearty meal to start your day.
- This chilaquiles casserole recipe is simple enough for beginners.
Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole Ingredients
Gathering the right chilaquiles breakfast casserole ingredients is the first step to a delicious meal. I’ve found that using good quality ingredients really makes a difference in this dish. Here’s what you’ll need for this easy chilaquiles breakfast casserole:
- 8 cups tortilla chips – these form the base, so choose sturdy ones!
- 1.5 cups shredded chicken or pork – leftover rotisserie chicken or pulled pork works wonderfully.
- 1.5 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend or Monterey Jack) – for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 1 cup salsa (red or green) – pick your favorite kind; a good salsa is key for flavor.
- 6 large eggs – I like to use them at room temperature for better mixing.
- 0.5 cup milk – helps make the egg mixture creamy and rich.
- 0.25 cup chopped onion – finely diced for even distribution.
- 0.25 cup chopped cilantro – fresh cilantro adds a wonderful brightness.
- Salt and pepper to taste – season as you go for the best flavor.
How to Make Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole
Let’s dive into how to make chilaquiles breakfast casserole – it’s surprisingly simple and so rewarding! The aroma alone as this bakes is enough to make your mouth water.
- Step 1: Fire up your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread your tortilla chips evenly across the bottom. This crispy layer is the heart of our chilaquiles breakfast bake.
- Step 2: Next, evenly distribute the shredded chicken or pork right over the tortilla chips. If you’re using leftover shredded meat, this is a fantastic way to repurpose it into a delicious breakfast.
- Step 3: Now, generously sprinkle the shredded cheese over the meat. I love how it melts into all the nooks and crannies, creating little pockets of cheesy goodness throughout the casserole.
- Step 4: Spoon the salsa evenly over the cheese layer. Whether you choose a vibrant red salsa or a zesty green salsa, this adds a crucial layer of flavor to our chilaquiles breakfast casserole.
- Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, chopped onion, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Make sure it’s well combined – this creates that custardy base that holds everything together.
- Step 6: Pour this delicious egg mixture evenly over all the ingredients in your baking dish. Gently ensure it seeps down into the chips.
- Step 7: Pop that dish into your preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the casserole is beautifully heated through and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are golden and the center is firm.
- Step 8: Once it’s out of the oven, let this delightful baked chilaquiles breakfast casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows it to set up perfectly.
Pro Tips for the Best Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole
Want to elevate your chilaquiles breakfast bake from good to unforgettable? I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make all the difference in creating the absolute best chilaquiles breakfast casserole.
- Don’t be afraid to toast your tortilla chips slightly before assembling the casserole; it helps them hold their shape better and adds a richer flavor.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce to the egg mixture.
- Make sure your salsa has a good flavor profile; it’s a major component of this dish, so choose one you truly love.
What’s the secret to perfect chilaquiles breakfast casserole?
The real secret to a perfect chilaquiles breakfast casserole lies in the balance of textures and flavors. Toasting the chips slightly and not over-baking the egg mixture ensures you get that delightful crunch alongside a creamy, savory interior. It’s all about the details for the best chilaquiles breakfast casserole!
Can I make chilaquiles breakfast casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble this entire chilaquiles breakfast casserole the night before. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven, and you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. For more make-ahead meal ideas, check out these last recipes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with chilaquiles breakfast casserole?
A common pitfall is soggy chips; try toasting them first or using thicker tortilla chips. Another mistake is over-baking, which can make the eggs rubbery. Watch for set eggs and a bubbly casserole, usually around 25-30 minutes, to avoid this. Learning about proper baking techniques can help prevent this.
Best Ways to Serve Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole
This versatile chilaquiles breakfast bake is fantastic on its own, but I love dressing it up with a few complementary sides. For a classic pairing, you can serve it alongside some simple scrambled or fried eggs – it really makes for a complete chilaquiles breakfast casserole experience. A dollop of cool sour cream or creamy avocado slices really cuts through the richness and spice beautifully. I also find that a side of fresh fruit, like sliced melon or berries, adds a refreshing contrast to this hearty dish. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a delicious chilaquiles casserole for breakfast or brunch! If you enjoy this, you might also like our jalapeno buffalo chicken casserole.
Nutrition Facts for Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole
When you’re enjoying this delicious chilaquiles breakfast bake, it’s helpful to know what you’re getting. Each serving of this easy chilaquiles breakfast casserole provides a good balance of nutrients to fuel your day.
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your chilaquiles breakfast casserole. For more information on nutritional tracking, you can refer to resources like the MyFitnessPal website.
How to Store and Reheat Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole
After you’ve enjoyed this fantastic chilaquiles casserole for breakfast, you’ll be happy to know it stores and reheats beautifully. Let the casserole cool completely before storing. For fridge storage, place any leftovers in an airtight container. It should stay fresh and delicious for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze portions of this chilaquiles breakfast bake for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to reheat, you have a couple of great options. You can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 60-90 seconds, or for a crispier result, reheat in a toaster oven or a regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This makes having a delicious chilaquiles breakfast casserole super convenient any time! Consider trying our cheesy mashed potato balls in air fryer for another easy meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole
What is a chilaquiles breakfast casserole?
Simply put, a chilaquiles breakfast casserole is a baked dish inspired by the traditional Mexican breakfast staple, chilaquiles. It takes the core elements – tortilla chips, salsa, cheese, and often meat or eggs – and layers them into a casserole form. This makes it incredibly easy to serve a crowd and enjoy all those delicious flavors in a comforting, baked format. It’s a fantastic way to experience chilaquiles for breakfast without the fuss of frying. You can find more information on the history of chilaquiles from sources like Mexican Food Journal.
Can I use red or green salsa for this chilaquiles breakfast casserole?
Absolutely! The beauty of this chilaquiles casserole recipe is its flexibility. Both red and green salsas work wonderfully. A red salsa will give you a classic, robust tomato flavor, while a green salsa (salsa verde) offers a tangier, often spicier, tomatillo-based taste. Choose whichever you prefer or even use a mix if you’re feeling adventurous! It’s one of the many chilaquiles breakfast casserole variations you can explore.
What kind of tortilla chips are best for a chilaquiles breakfast casserole?
For the best baked chilaquiles breakfast casserole, I recommend using thicker, sturdier tortilla chips, like those meant for dipping rather than the very thin, crispy ones. This helps them hold up better to the moisture from the salsa and egg mixture without becoming completely soggy. You can even give them a quick toast in the oven before assembling to ensure they retain a bit of crunch. This is a key tip for achieving the best chilaquiles breakfast casserole texture.
Can I add vegetables to my chilaquiles breakfast casserole?
Yes, definitely! This chilaquiles breakfast bake is incredibly adaptable. You can easily add sautéed onions, bell peppers, corn, or even some spinach to the layers. Just make sure to sauté any raw vegetables like onions or peppers beforehand to soften them up and enhance their flavor. This is a great way to create your own unique chilaquiles breakfast casserole variations and sneak in some extra nutrients. For more ideas on incorporating vegetables, consider looking at apple zucchini bread recipes.
Variations of Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole You Can Try
One of the best things about this dish is how many wonderful chilaquiles breakfast casserole variations you can create! Whether you’re aiming for a lighter meal, a spicier kick, or just want to use what you have on hand, these ideas will inspire you. Here are a few of my favorite chilaquiles breakfast bake twists:
- Vegetarian Delight: Skip the meat entirely and load up on your favorite veggies! Sautéed bell peppers, corn, zucchini, or even black beans make fantastic additions. This is a great way to enjoy a hearty vegetarian chilaquiles breakfast casserole.
- Spicy Fiesta: If you love a bit of heat, amp it up! Use a spicier salsa verde, add some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the egg mixture, or top with a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce before serving.
- Low-Carb Option: For those watching their carbs, try using low-carb tortilla chips or even cauliflower florets as the base instead of traditional chips. This is one of the simplest chilaquiles breakfast casserole variations for a lighter meal.
- Slow Cooker Simplicity: You can adapt this recipe for your slow cooker! Layer the ingredients as usual, pour over the egg mixture, and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until set. It’s a wonderfully hands-off method for a delicious chilaquiles casserole for breakfast.
Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole: Delicious & Easy
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy chilaquiles breakfast casserole perfect for any morning meal. This chilaquiles breakfast bake combines crispy tortilla chips with savory ingredients for a satisfying dish.
Ingredients
- 8 cups tortilla chips
- 1.5 cups shredded chicken or pork
- 1.5 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend or Monterey Jack)
- 1 cup salsa (red or green)
- 6 large eggs
- 0.5 cup milk
- 0.25 cup chopped onion
- 0.25 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread the tortilla chips evenly in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer the shredded chicken or pork over the chips.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the meat.
- Pour the salsa evenly over the cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, chopped onion, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the casserole ingredients.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the casserole is heated through.
- Let the chilaquiles breakfast casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier chilaquiles breakfast casserole, use a spicier salsa.
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or jalapeños to your chilaquiles casserole.
- Serve this chilaquiles breakfast bake with sour cream or avocado.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
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