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Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole: A Bold and Flavorful Start to Your Day

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Start your morning with a crave-worthy Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole! Layers of crispy tortilla chips, fluffy eggs, melty cheese, and zesty salsa come together in this bold and satisfying dish. Every bite is packed with rich flavors and a touch of spice to jumpstart your day! 🌞🧀🔥

Ingredients

Scale

For the Sauce

  • 1 (15-ounce) can red enchilada sauce
  • 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or spicy, based on preference)
  • 1 (4-ounce) can Hatch green chiles
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 3 green onions, chopped

For the Casserole

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
  • 1 (10-ounce) bag tortilla chips
  • 6 large eggs (optional)

For Garnish

  • Avocado, sliced
  • Queso fresco or crumbled Cotija cheese
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Sour cream
  • Hot sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Sauce

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together the enchilada sauce, salsa, Hatch green chiles, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and green onions. This sauce will provide the bold flavor that defines the dish.

Step 2: Assemble the Layers

In a 9×12-inch baking dish, pour a ladle of the sauce mixture to coat the bottom. Arrange half of the tortilla chips in an even layer over the sauce. Spoon half of the remaining sauce on top, ensuring the chips are lightly coated but not completely soaked. Sprinkle half of the shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese over the top.

Repeat the layering process with the remaining chips, sauce, and cheese.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The cheese should be fully melted, and the edges of the chips should be slightly crisp.

Step 4: Cook the Eggs (Optional)

If adding eggs, there are two methods to incorporate them:

  1. Baking Directly on the Casserole – Crack the eggs on top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking. Return the dish to the oven and cook until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still slightly runny.
  2. Preparing Separately – Fry or poach the eggs while the casserole is baking and place them on top when serving.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a drizzle of hot sauce. Serve immediately.

Notes

Avoid Over-Soaking the Chips

The tortilla chips should be coated in sauce but not completely submerged. This helps maintain a slight crunch while still absorbing flavor.

How to Tell When the Casserole is Done

The cheese should be melted and slightly golden. If baking eggs on top, the whites should be set but the yolks should still be slightly soft unless you prefer a firmer texture.

How to Prevent Overcooked Eggs

If baking the eggs directly on the casserole, check them frequently after 10 minutes to ensure they do not overcook. The yolks should have a slight jiggle when gently shaken.

Prepping in Advance

This dish can be assembled the night before and stored in the refrigerator. Simply bake it in the morning for a quick and delicious breakfast.