Amazing Mexican Breakfast Casserole

This Amazing Mexican Breakfast Casserole is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a weekend brunch, holiday gathering, or simply to enjoy on a cozy morning. Packed with vibrant flavors, this casserole is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. It’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegetarian by substituting meat options. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful breakfast treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious & Flavorful: This casserole combines savory sausage with spices, beans, and cheese for an irresistible taste.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip this up in no time, making breakfast stress-free.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it a day in advance and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
Customizable Toppings: Personalize each serving with fresh toppings like avocado or cilantro to suit everyone’s taste.
Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for gatherings, this recipe provides 12 generous servings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your preparation and cooking time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large sauté pan
9 x 13-inch baking dish
Whisk
Slotted spoon
Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

Large sauté pan: Ideal for browning your sausage and sautéing vegetables efficiently.
9 x 13-inch baking dish: Perfect size to layer all ingredients evenly for optimal baking.
Whisk: Ensures eggs and milk are mixed thoroughly without lumps.

Ingredients

This amazing Mexican breakfast casserole recipe is loaded up with the most flavorful ingredients.

Ingredients:
– 1.25 pounds ground sausage or Mexican chicken sausage
– 1 small white onion, peeled and diced
– 1 poblano or green bell pepper, cored and diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (15-ounce) jar red or green salsa (approx. 2 cups)
– 1 (15-ounce) can black or pinto beans, rinsed and drained
– 2/3 cup whole-kernel corn, frozen or canned
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 12 large eggs
– 1/3 cup milk
– 8 corn tortillas, halved
– 3 cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese
– optional toppings: diced avocado, diced red onion, chopped fresh cilantro, diced green onion, sliced fresh jalapeños, and/or crumbled cotija cheese

How to Make Amazing Mexican Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 400°F. Lightly mist a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray; set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Cook the sausage in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat until browned. Crumble the sausage as it cooks. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a clean plate, reserving some grease in the pan.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion and pepper to the same pan. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Then add minced garlic and sauté for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the salsa, beans, corn, cumin, salt, and cooked sausage until everything is well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Whisk Eggs

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until evenly combined; set aside.

Step 6: Layer Ingredients

Layer half of the tortillas evenly in the bottom of your baking dish. Top with half of the sausage mixture, followed by half of the egg mixture and half of the cheese. Repeat these layers with remaining tortillas, sausage mixture, egg mixture, and cheese.

Step 7: Bake

Cover your dish with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes or until cooked through (the center should be firm). A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Transfer the baking dish to a wire cooling rack; let cool for about 10 minutes before adding desired toppings. Slice and serve warm!

How to Serve Amazing Mexican Breakfast Casserole

This amazing Mexican breakfast casserole is perfect for any gathering or family brunch. It can be served warm, hot, or even at room temperature, making it versatile for different occasions.

Classic Toppings

Avocado: Diced avocado adds creaminess and richness to each bite.
Chopped Fresh Cilantro: This herb brings a fresh and vibrant flavor that complements the dish.
Diced Red Onion: Adds a sharp bite and colorful contrast to the casserole.
Sliced Fresh Jalapeños: For those who enjoy some heat, jalapeños provide a spicy kick.
Crumbled Cotija Cheese: This cheese adds a salty and tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Accompaniments

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brightens up your plate and adds sweetness.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or yogurt balances the spices with its coolness.
Corn Salsa: A refreshing corn salsa can add texture and flavor variety to your meal.

How to Perfect Amazing Mexican Breakfast Casserole

To ensure your amazing Mexican breakfast casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering the casserole while baking helps retain moisture, preventing it from drying out.
Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving helps it set, making it easier to slice.
Customize Layers: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of jalapeños or salsa based on your preference for heat.

Best Side Dishes for Amazing Mexican Breakfast Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your amazing Mexican breakfast casserole can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
Refried Beans: These beans add heartiness and are a traditional side in Mexican cuisine.
Mexican Rice: Flavored rice pairs well with the spices in the casserole, making for a fulfilling meal.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is always a hit; serve it alongside for extra flavor.
Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa make for an enjoyable snack before or after the main dish.
Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes can provide a crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft casserole.
Fruit Smoothies: A refreshing smoothie can be a delightful beverage option that balances out the savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an amazing Mexican breakfast casserole can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

Skipping the Cooking Time: Not cooking the sausage properly can lead to an unappetizing dish. Always ensure the sausage is browned before adding other ingredients.
Ignoring Layering Techniques: Overloading a single layer can cause uneven cooking. Follow the layering instructions precisely for optimal results.
Using Outdated Ingredients: Old spices and ingredients can dull flavors. Always check expiration dates to ensure freshness in your casserole.
Not Allowing Cooling Time: Cutting into the casserole too soon can lead to a messy serving. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes for better slices.
Neglecting Toppings: Skipping toppings reduces flavor complexity. Customize with fresh ingredients like avocado or cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Amazing Mexican Breakfast Casserole

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
It freezes well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Amazing Mexican Breakfast Casserole

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Warm individual slices in a skillet over medium-low heat, covering until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Amazing Mexican Breakfast Casserole gluten-free?

This recipe uses corn tortillas instead of traditional wheat tortillas, making it suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Can I make the Amazing Mexican Breakfast Casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the sausage with plant-based alternatives like lentils or additional beans.

How do I customize my Amazing Mexican Breakfast Casserole?

Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or zucchini, or use different types of cheese based on your preference.

How long does it take to prepare the Amazing Mexican Breakfast Casserole?

The total time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

What toppings work best on the Amazing Mexican Breakfast Casserole?

Popular options include diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and jalapeños. Feel free to get creative!

Final Thoughts

This amazing Mexican breakfast casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. It’s perfect for breakfast gatherings or meal prep. Try it out today!