Wake Up to Flavor: A Delicious Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Chilaquiles, a beloved Mexican breakfast staple, typically involves fried tortilla chips simmered in salsa and topped with cheese, crema, and a fried egg. But what if you could enjoy all those amazing flavors in a convenient, make-ahead casserole? This Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole recipe takes the classic dish and transforms it into a crowd-pleasing breakfast or brunch option that’s perfect for weekend gatherings or a satisfying weekday meal prep.
This recipe is adaptable to your preferences, allowing you to customize the salsa, protein, and toppings to your liking. Whether you prefer a spicy kick or a milder flavor profile, this casserole can be tailored to satisfy every palate.
## Why You’ll Love This Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole
* **Easy to Make:** With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this casserole comes together quickly.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
* **Customizable:** Adapt the salsa, protein, and toppings to suit your taste.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** Perfect for feeding a group of friends or family.
* **Delicious and Satisfying:** Packed with flavor and hearty ingredients, this casserole will keep you full and energized.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Tortilla Chips:** Use sturdy tortilla chips that will hold their shape when soaked in salsa. Look for restaurant-style or thick-cut chips.
* **Salsa:** Choose your favorite salsa, whether it’s a mild tomato salsa, a spicy salsa verde, or a smoky chipotle salsa. You can also make your own homemade salsa for a truly authentic flavor.
* **Eggs:** The base of the casserole, providing protein and richness.
* **Milk (or Cream):** Adds moisture and creaminess to the egg mixture.
* **Cheese:** Use a combination of cheeses for a flavorful and melty topping. Monterey Jack, cheddar, Oaxaca, or queso fresco are all great options.
* **Protein (Optional):** Add cooked shredded chicken, chorizo, ground beef, or black beans for extra protein and flavor.
* **Onion and Garlic:** These aromatics form the flavor base of the casserole.
* **Jalapeño (Optional):** For an extra kick of heat.
* **Toppings:** Get creative with your toppings! Some popular choices include avocado, crema, cilantro, pickled onions, and a fried egg.
### Detailed Ingredient List with Quantities
* 1 (12-ounce) bag restaurant-style tortilla chips
* 2 cups salsa (your favorite kind, store-bought or homemade)
* 8 large eggs
* 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 small onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
* 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a blend)
* 1 cup cooked shredded chicken, chorizo, or black beans (optional)
* **Toppings (optional):**
* Avocado, diced
* Crema or sour cream
* Fresh cilantro, chopped
* Pickled onions
* Fried eggs
## Equipment You’ll Need
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Large skillet
* Mixing bowls
* Whisk
* Measuring cups and spoons
## Step-by-Step Instructions
**1. Prepare the Salsa Base (Optional but Recommended):**
While you can use salsa straight from the jar, briefly sautéing some aromatics with a portion of the salsa elevates the flavor. This step enhances the depth and complexity of the final casserole.
* Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
* Add the minced garlic and jalapeño (if using) and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
* Pour in about 1 cup of the salsa and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.
* Remove from heat.
**2. Assemble the Casserole:**
This is where the magic happens! Layering the ingredients correctly ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
* Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
* Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
* Spread a thin layer of the salsa mixture (if you made it) or plain salsa on the bottom of the dish. This prevents the tortilla chips from sticking and adds flavor to the bottom layer.
* Arrange a layer of tortilla chips over the salsa, slightly overlapping them.
* Sprinkle half of the cooked protein (if using) over the chips.
* Drizzle half of the remaining salsa over the chips and protein.
* Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the salsa.
* Repeat layers: tortilla chips, remaining protein (if using), remaining salsa, and remaining cheese.
**3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:**
The egg mixture binds all the ingredients together and creates a custardy texture in the casserole.
* In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or cream), salt, and pepper until well combined. Make sure the yolks are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
**4. Pour Egg Mixture and Bake:**
Pouring the egg mixture evenly over the casserole is crucial for ensuring consistent baking and a uniform texture.
* Pour the egg mixture evenly over the assembled casserole, making sure to saturate all the chips. Gently press down on the chips with a spatula to help them absorb the egg mixture.
* Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
* Bake for 30 minutes. This allows the casserole to cook through without browning too quickly.
* Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the egg mixture is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
**5. Let Rest and Serve:**
Allowing the casserole to rest before slicing helps it to set and makes it easier to serve.
* Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
* Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as diced avocado, crema, fresh cilantro, pickled onions, and a fried egg.
## Tips for the Perfect Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole
* **Use Sturdy Tortilla Chips:** Avoid using thin or flimsy tortilla chips, as they will become soggy when soaked in the salsa and egg mixture. Restaurant-style or thick-cut chips are the best choice.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Dish:** If your baking dish is too small, the casserole will be too thick and may not cook evenly. Use a 9×13 inch baking dish or two smaller dishes if necessary.
* **Adjust the Baking Time:** Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Check the casserole frequently during the last 15 minutes of baking to ensure that the egg mixture is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
* **Add Some Heat:** If you like a spicy kick, add some chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the salsa or egg mixture.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the meat and add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or corn.
* **Prevent Soggy Chips:** Briefly toasting the tortilla chips in the oven before assembling the casserole can help prevent them from becoming too soggy.
* **Use Quality Ingredients:** The better the quality of your ingredients, the better the flavor of your casserole will be. Use fresh eggs, high-quality cheese, and your favorite salsa.
## Variations and Adaptations
* **Chicken Chilaquiles Casserole:** Use cooked shredded chicken as the protein.
* **Chorizo Chilaquiles Casserole:** Use cooked and crumbled chorizo as the protein. Its spicy and savory flavor pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
* **Black Bean Chilaquiles Casserole:** For a vegetarian option, use cooked black beans as the protein. Add some corn and bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
* **Salsa Verde Chilaquiles Casserole:** Use salsa verde instead of tomato salsa for a tangy and herbaceous flavor.
* **Spicy Chilaquiles Casserole:** Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the salsa or egg mixture for an extra kick of heat.
* **Breakfast Sausage Chilaquiles Casserole:** Use cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage for a classic breakfast flavor.
* **Leftover Pulled Pork Chilaquiles Casserole:** This is a great way to use leftover pulled pork. The smoky and savory flavor of the pork will add a delicious twist to the casserole.
## Serving Suggestions
* **Brunch:** Serve the Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole as part of a brunch spread alongside other breakfast favorites like pancakes, waffles, and fruit salad.
* **Breakfast for Dinner:** Enjoy the casserole for a satisfying and flavorful breakfast for dinner.
* **Potlucks and Gatherings:** This casserole is perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you need to feed a crowd.
* **Weeknight Meal Prep:** Make the casserole ahead of time and bake it on a busy weeknight for a quick and easy meal.
* **Individual Portions:** Bake the casserole in individual ramekins for a convenient and elegant presentation.
## Make-Ahead Instructions
This Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole is a great make-ahead option. You can assemble the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning. Here’s how:
1. Assemble the casserole according to the recipe instructions, but do not bake it.
2. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
3. In the morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the plastic wrap and cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the egg mixture is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
## Storage Instructions
* **Leftovers:** Store leftover Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also reheat the entire casserole in the oven, covered with foil, at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving (depending on ingredients and toppings)
* Protein: 20-30 grams per serving
* Fat: 25-35 grams per serving
* Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams per serving
*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*
## Printable Recipe Card
**Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole Recipe**
A delicious and easy-to-make breakfast casserole featuring tortilla chips, salsa, eggs, cheese, and your favorite toppings.
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 45-50 minutes
**Total Time:** 1 hour 5 minutes
**Servings:** 8-10 servings
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (12-ounce) bag restaurant-style tortilla chips
* 2 cups salsa (your favorite kind, store-bought or homemade)
* 8 large eggs
* 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 small onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
* 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a blend)
* 1 cup cooked shredded chicken, chorizo, or black beans (optional)
* **Toppings (optional):**
* Avocado, diced
* Crema or sour cream
* Fresh cilantro, chopped
* Pickled onions
* Fried eggs
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and jalapeño (if using) and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant. Pour in about 1 cup of the salsa and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.
3. Spread a thin layer of the salsa mixture (if you made it) or plain salsa on the bottom of the dish.
4. Arrange a layer of tortilla chips over the salsa, slightly overlapping them.
5. Sprinkle half of the cooked protein (if using) over the chips.
6. Drizzle half of the remaining salsa over the chips and protein.
7. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the salsa.
8. Repeat layers: tortilla chips, remaining protein (if using), remaining salsa, and remaining cheese.
9. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or cream), salt, and pepper until well combined.
10. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the assembled casserole, making sure to saturate all the chips. Gently press down on the chips with a spatula to help them absorb the egg mixture.
11. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
12. Bake for 30 minutes.
13. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the egg mixture is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
14. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
15. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as diced avocado, crema, fresh cilantro, pickled onions, and a fried egg.
Enjoy this delicious and satisfying Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole!
## Final Thoughts
This Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create a memorable breakfast experience. It’s about gathering loved ones around a table filled with flavorful, comforting food. It’s about adapting a classic dish to fit your own tastes and preferences. So, go ahead, experiment with different salsas, proteins, and toppings. Make it your own! Whether you’re hosting a brunch, feeding a hungry family, or simply looking for a delicious and satisfying breakfast, this casserole is sure to be a hit.