If you’re a fan of bold, spicy flavors and hearty morning meals, then this Tex Mex Breakfast Casserole Recipe is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Imagine waking up to the aroma of sizzling chorizo, sautéed peppers, and melted cheese – all combined into a scrumptious, one-dish wonder that’ll have you craving for more. As an avid food enthusiast and seasoned blogger, I’ve crafted this recipe to bring the vibrant essence of Tex-Mex cuisine right to your breakfast table, ensuring a delightful start to your day.
Ingredients (Serves 8-10)
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes (approximately 3 cups)
- 12 oz. spicy pork chorizo or turkey chorizo (for a leaner option)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (adjust quantity based on desired heat level)
- 1 (4 oz.) can diced green chilies
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Timing
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
| 20 minutes | 1 hour | 1 hour 20 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Tex Mex Breakfast Casserole
Step 1- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
Step 2- In a large skillet, cook the chorizo over medium-high heat, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks, until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the cooked chorizo to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving the rendered fat in the skillet.
Step 3- In the same skillet with the chorizo fat, sauté the diced onion and jalapeño until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the diced green chilies and cook for an additional minute. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
Step 4- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Step 5- Spread the diced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with the cooked chorizo, sautéed onion-pepper mixture, and both types of shredded cheese, distributing them evenly over the potatoes.
Step 6- Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring it seeps through the layers and covers everything evenly.
Step 7- Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 45-55 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
Step 8- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with your favorite Tex-Mex toppings, such as diced avocado, salsa, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños.
Tips for Making It Perfect
1- For a crispier texture, you can partially cook the diced potatoes by sautéing them in a little oil or butter before assembling the casserole.
2- If you prefer a spicier kick, leave the seeds and membranes in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture.
3- To save time, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and assemble the casserole, then cover and refrigerate it until ready to bake in the morning.
4- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving to allow the eggs to set properly and make it easier to portion.
Avoid these mistakes
1- Don’t overmix the egg mixture, as this can lead to a dense, rubbery texture in the finished casserole.
2- Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melting and texture of the cheese.
3- Be careful not to overbake the casserole, as this can result in a dry, crumbly texture.
4- Don’t skimp on the seasoning, as Tex-Mex flavors rely heavily on bold spices and aromatics.
Some Ideas for Customizing the Recipe with Different Ingredients and Flavors
1- Swap the chorizo for crumbled tofu or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian/vegan option.
2- Add diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or spinach for extra veggies.
3- Substitute the potatoes with shredded hash browns or diced sweet potatoes for a different twist.
4 Incorporate black beans, corn kernels, or diced tomatoes for additional Tex-Mex flair.
5- Try different cheese varieties like pepper jack, queso fresco, or a Mexican cheese blend.
6- Sprinkle in some chili powder, ground coriander, or smoked paprika for added depth of flavor.
Nutritional Facts
Amount Per Serving:
- Calories: 355
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 305mg
- Sodium: 770mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 19g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 20g
Conclusion
This Tex-Mex Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a true celebration of bold flavors and hearty ingredients, making it the perfect dish to kickstart your day with a burst of energy and excitement. With its layers of spicy chorizo, tender potatoes, melted cheese, and a medley of Tex-Mex aromatics, every bite promises to transport you to a culinary fiesta. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or simply treating yourself to a delicious morning indulgence, this casserole is sure to become a beloved staple in your breakfast repertoire.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it in the morning. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
Can I use egg substitutes or plant-based milk in this recipe?
While I haven’t tried it myself, you should be able to substitute the eggs with a vegan egg replacer or silken tofu, and use plant-based milk instead of regular milk. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze individual portions of the casserole for later enjoyment. Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap slices tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I use regular pork sausage instead of chorizo?
Absolutely! If you can’t find chorizo or prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute it with regular pork breakfast sausage or even turkey sausage.
Can I bake this casserole in a different size dish?
Yes, you can use a different size baking dish, but keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted. A smaller dish will likely require a shorter baking time, while a larger dish may need a few extra minutes in the oven.