This huevos rancheros breakfast casserole is a tasty morning treat! It’s filled with layers of eggs, tortillas, cheese, and zesty salsa that wake up your taste buds!
This dish is perfect for a crowd. I love to make it ahead of time, so all I have to do is reheat it in the morning. Breakfast for dinner, anyone? Yum! 🍳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Fresh large eggs are essential for this dish. They create the perfect texture. If you need an egg substitute, try using silken tofu blended until smooth, keeping in mind the texture will change.
Chorizo or Sausage: I love using chorizo for its bold flavor, but feel free to substitute turkey sausage or omit meat for a vegetarian version. Black beans can add a nice protein boost too!
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are a classic choice, but flour tortillas work great too. If you’re gluten-free, look for corn tortillas. You can even use tortilla chips for a fun crunch!
Cheese: A Mexican blend is tasty, but you can mix and match your favorite cheeses. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even Pepper Jack for a kicked-up flavor work wonderfully.
Salsa: I prefer a mild salsa, but you can use a spicier one if that’s your style. Homemade salsa can elevate the dish even higher!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the casserole just right is key to keeping it flavorful and not overdone. Here are some tips:
- Check the eggs towards the end of the cooking time. They should be set but still soft.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. It helps the layers bond and makes slicing easier.
- The cheese should be melted and slightly golden for great flavor.
Keep an eye on your casserole and adjust baking times as needed depending on your oven; they can vary quite a bit!
Huevos Rancheros Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup cooked and seasoned ground chorizo or breakfast sausage
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar, Monterey jack, queso quesadilla)
- 4 small corn or flour tortillas, cut into strips or torn into pieces
- 1/2 cup salsa or ranchero sauce
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper or jalapeño (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing the pan
Time Estimate:
This casserole will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake, for a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s an easy and quick breakfast option that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While waiting, grease a medium-sized baking dish or ovenproof skillet with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Tortillas:
Take the torn tortilla pieces and spread them evenly over the bottom of the prepared dish. This will form a hearty base for your casserole.
3. Add the Chorizo:
Next, scoop the cooked chorizo or sausage evenly over the tortilla layer. This will give the casserole a delicious, savory flavor.
4. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Now, take the shredded Mexican blend cheese and sprinkle it generously over the top of the chorizo. This will melt beautifully as it bakes!
5. Crack the Eggs:
Carefully crack the eggs on top of the cheese and sausage layer, making sure to space them out evenly. Lightly season the eggs with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
6. Drizzle with Salsa:
Drizzle your favorite salsa or ranchero sauce evenly over the entire casserole, ensuring that every bite gets a taste of this zippy goodness.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your liking and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to get that perfect doneness!
8. Add Fresh Toppings:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the diced onions, bell peppers, and chopped cilantro over the top for a fresh finish.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off by adding slices of avocado on the side. This adds a delightful creaminess that complements the dish perfectly!
10. Enjoy!
Slice up your huevos rancheros breakfast casserole and serve it hot. It’s a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for any breakfast or brunch occasion!
This casserole creates the classic flavors of huevos rancheros in a fun, baked form. The combination of crispy tortillas, savory eggs, and melted cheese makes it an irresistible dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While a Mexican blend is perfect, feel free to mix in your favorites like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just ensure they melt well!
What If I Don’t Have Chorizo?
No worries! You can substitute with cooked breakfast sausage, turkey sausage, or even omit it for a vegetarian version. Black beans can add a nice protein boost too!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just pop it in the oven in the morning — you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through, and you may want to add a splash of salsa to refresh the flavors!
