Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s near and dear to my heart: “Cake-a-Casserole”. What is your family’s chilaquiles Think of it like the coziest, most flavorful hug you can get in a breakfast dish. What’s the crunch of tortilla chips, the tangy kick of salsa, and the creamy texture? What is the richness of cheese? What’s the best comfort food you’ve ever had? What’s the best brunch dish you’ve ever had? My grandmother used to make this every Sunday after church and the smell alone brings me right back. Is there a woman in the What is a better chilaquiles recipe than tamales?
What is chilaquiles?
What are chilaquiles? What would you make of leftover tortilla chips? What is a Mexican dish where you fry tortilla chips and smother them in salsa? Is it possible to choose between green or red? ), and top them with cheese, and whatever else you desire. Think of it as the Mexican version of nachos, but, in my opinion, way more flavorful and satisfying. “Chilaquiles” comes from the Nahuatl word “chlaquilitl,” which roughly translates to “chili herbs.” “It’s a humble dish, born out of necessity to use up leftover ingredients, but man, it’s become an enticing dish. ” Is staple in my family, and I’m betting it will in yours too!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Honestly, where do I even start? There are just SO many reasons to love this chilaquiles recipe! First off, the flavor is just incredible. You get that perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory that just wakes up your taste buds. And trust me, the combination of the crispy chips, the smooth salsa, and the melty cheese is just heavenly. Then there’s the simplicity. This dish looks and tastes fancy, but it’s ridiculously easy to make. Seriously, you can have a delicious plate of chilaquiles on the table in under 30 minutes, which makes it a lifesaver on busy mornings. I always have the ingredients on hand, so it’s become my go-to when I need something quick and satisfying.
Another thing I love is how cost-effective it is. We’re talking about tortilla chips, salsa, cheese, and a few other basic ingredients – nothing fancy or expensive required. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd on a budget. Finally, this chilaquiles recipe is incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings, like shredded chicken, scrambled eggs, avocado, or sour cream. My kids love it with a fried egg on top, while I usually go for extra avocado. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity! And, it’s way more exciting than just plain old scrambled eggs for breakfast.
What I love most about this is, honestly, the memories. Every time I make it, I think about my grandmother and those Sunday mornings. It’s more than just food; it’s a connection to my heritage and my family.
How do you make chilaquiles?
Quick Overview
How do I make chilaquiles? How do you fry tortilla chips? I usually go for roasted tomato salsa. Then, you smother them in your favorite salsa – I like to eat it myself. What is store-bought? Next, you generously top everything with cheese and bake (or broil! ) until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Finally, you add your favorite toppings and dig in! It only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Weekend brunches.
Ingredients
For the Chilaquiles: What
* 1 bag (about 10 ounces) of your favorite tortilla chips. I prefer thicker restaurant-style chips for maximum crunch.
* 2 cups of your favorite salsa (red or green). Homemade is always best, but a good quality store-bought salsa works too. I always make sure it has a nice kick!
* 2 cups shredded cheese. Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend work great. What you have on hand?
* 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for frying the chips)
Toppings (use your imagination!):
* Fried or scrambled eggs
* Shredded cooked chicken or pork
* Avocado slices or guacamole
* Sour cream or Mexican crema
* Chopped cilantro
* Diced onion
* Pickled jalapeños (if you like it spicy!)
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. How do I remove chips from the bottom of a dish? You can use cooking spray or just a little olive oil. Make sure the whole dish is lightly coated.
Step 2: Lightly Fry Tortilla Chips (Optional)
What is the best way to make crispy chilaquiles? In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add salt and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes. Working in batches, fry tortilla chips for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until lightly browned. Is it a good idea to fry something golden Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet, or the chips will steam instead of frying. How do you remove fried chips from a food processor and drain on paper towels? If you are skipping this step, you can just use the chips straight from the bag. What is the best way to fry chilaquiles?
Step 3: Layer Chips and Salsa
Arrange half of the tortilla chips in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. What is salsa? Pour half of the salsa evenly over the chips. Make sure every chip gets a good coating of salsa! If you have shredded cheese, sprinkle with half of it. Repeat with remaining chips, salsa, and cheese. What is the best layering technique to ensure that every bite is packed with flavor?
Step 4: Bake
How long does it take for cheese to melt in the preheated oven? If you want the cheese to be extra browned and bubbly, you can broil it for the last minute or two. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning! How do you get cheese melted without drying out the chips?
Step 5: Add Toppings & Serve!
Remove the chilaquiles from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, add your favorite toppings and serve immediately! I like to add a fried egg, some avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. But really, the possibilities are endless! Get creative and add whatever toppings you love.
What should I serve it with?
Chilaquiles are a meal in themselves, but they can be even better with the right accompaniments!
For Breakfast:What is the best way to enjoy hot coffee? What is the best combination of chilaquiles and coffee? I also like to add a side of fresh fruit, like sliced oranges or berries, to balance out the savory.For Brunch:Serve with a pitcher of Bloody Marys or mimosas for brunch. A side of refried beans and some Mexican rice would also be a great addition. Can you create a topping bar for your chilaquiles?As Dessert: Okay, maybe chilaquiles aren’t traditionally a dessert dish, but hear me out! After a spicy and savory meal, a light and refreshing dessert is the perfect ending. Try some fresh Fruit Salad with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
For Cozy Snacks: Honestly, I love it anytime. A simple side of guacamole and some extra tortilla chips are perfect for dipping. And don’t forget the hot sauce!
My family usually has chilaquiles as a brunch item on Sunday morning. It has been a weekly event since childhood and I hope that it continues for generations to come.
What are some tips for perfecting chilaquiles recipe?
What are some of the best chilaquiles to make?Salsa Choice: The salsa is the heart and soul of this dish, so choose wisely! I highly recommend making your own salsa from scratch for the best flavor. Roasted tomato salsa is my personal favorite, but you can also use salsa verde (green salsa) or any other salsa you love. If you’re using store-bought salsa, look for a good quality brand with fresh ingredients.
What is the best selection The type of tortilla chips you use can make a big difference. I prefer thicker restaurant-style chips because they hold up better to the salsa and don’t get soggy as quickly. Avoid thin, flimsy chips, as they will likely disintegrate in the oven. If you want to take things to the next level, you can even make your own tortilla chips by frying corn tortillas in oil until crispy.
What is cheese, please Don’t skimp on the cheese! Use a generous amount of shredded cheese for maximum melty goodness. Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend are all great choices. You can also use a combination of different cheeses for a more complex flavor. I like to use a little bit of queso fresco on top for a salty, crumbly finish.
Frying for Extra Crunch: What are some ofIs it necessary to fry tortilla chips before baking them? Frying them briefly in hot oil makes them extra crispy and prevents them from getting soggy in the oven. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but I highly recommend it if you want the best. Can you make aTopping ExtravaganDon’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings! What are some of my favorite toppings? What is the best way to eat cilantro, and diced onion What are some good ways to add bacon to a meal? What are the best toppings for salsa and cheese? I did once try using sweet potato chips, but they got way too soggy and the flavor didn’t quite work. What do you do with salsa? What are some good alternatives to tortilla chips?
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
If you happen to have any leftover chilaquiles (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
Refrigerating: Store leftover chilaquiles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the chips will soften as they sit in the salsa, so they won’t be as crispy as they were when freshly made.
Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chilaquiles in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the chips will be even softer. To revive the chips a bit, you can broil them for a minute or two before serving, but watch them closely to prevent burning!
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing chilaquiles, as the chips will become very soggy when thawed. However, you can freeze the salsa separately for later use. Just store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Best if Fresh: Honestly, chilaquiles are best eaten fresh. The chips are crispy, the cheese is melty, and the flavors are at their peak. If you’re planning on making chilaquiles for a crowd, I recommend making them right before serving for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my family’s famous chilaquiles recipe! It’s a dish that’s close to my heart, and I hope it becomes a staple in your home too. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and incredibly delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover tortilla chips! If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other Mexican-inspired dishes, like my easy chicken enchiladas or my homemade guacamole. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how your chilaquiles turn out. Let me know in the comments below if you try it, and don’t forget to rate the recipe! Share your own variations too – I’m always looking for new ideas!
Chilaquiles recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup corn tortillas
- 1 cup salsa roja
- 0.5 cup shredded cheese
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1 cup cooked chicken shredded
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cut the corn tortillas into triangles and fry until crispy.
- In a skillet, heat the salsa roja.
- Add the tortilla chips to the salsa and toss to coat.
- Top with cheese, onion, and chicken.
- Serve immediately.
