Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole! It’s like a hearty hug in a dish, combining all those delicious nacho flavors we love, but for breakfast! Imagine crispy corn tortillas layered with savory breakfast sausage, black beans, and fresh tomatoes, all topped with gooey melted cheddar cheese. It’s a flavor explosion that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it the perfect choice for a cozy brunch with friends or a family feast. Trust me, once you serve this casserole, it’ll become a breakfast tradition in your home. Are you ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole:
- 8 corn tortillas, cut into triangles – These will form the crispy base of your casserole, soaking up all those delicious flavors!
- 1 pound breakfast sausage – I love using a savory sausage, but feel free to go spicy or mild depending on your taste!
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed – They add a nice protein boost and a lovely creaminess to the dish.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes – Fresh or canned work great, just make sure to drain them if they’re canned to avoid extra moisture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – You can’t go wrong with cheddar! It melts beautifully and adds that ooey-gooey texture we all crave.
- 1/2 cup diced onion – I recommend a yellow or white onion for sweetness, but red onions can add a nice zing!
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños – Adjust to your spice tolerance! I love the kick they bring, but you can skip them if you prefer milder flavors.
- 6 large eggs – These will bind everything together and create that fluffy, custardy layer.
- 1 cup milk – Whole milk gives the best creaminess, but any milk you have on hand will work!
- 1 teaspoon chili powder – This adds warmth and depth; trust me, it’s a must!
- 1 teaspoon cumin – For that lovely earthy flavor that pairs so well with the other ingredients.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Always essential to bring out all those delicious flavors!
How to Prepare Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole
Alright, let’s get this party started! Making this Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole is a breeze, and I promise you’re going to love every step. Just follow along, and soon you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready to go!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures your casserole bakes evenly and gets that golden top we all crave.
Step 2: Cook the Breakfast Sausage
Next, grab a skillet and cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat. Break it apart with a spatula and cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. This adds so much savory goodness to your casserole!
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until it’s all well combined. You want it to be nice and smooth—this will hold everything together beautifully as it bakes!
Step 4: Layer the Tortillas and Fillings
Now, let’s assemble! Start by layering the tortilla triangles in a greased baking dish. Make sure they cover the bottom nicely. Then, add the cooked sausage, black beans, diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and half of the cheddar cheese on top. Oh, the aroma is already heavenly!
Step 5: Pour the Egg Mixture and Top with Cheese
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over everything, making sure it seeps down into all those delicious layers. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. It’s going to melt into a gooey, cheesy dream!
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Finally, pop your casserole in the oven and bake it for 30–35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top is a beautiful golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve. Get ready for the compliments to roll in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Packed: This casserole is like a fiesta in your mouth! The combination of sausage, cheese, and spices creates an irresistible flavor that’ll have everyone reaching for more.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can whip up this hearty dish without breaking a sweat. It’s perfect for those busy mornings or lazy weekends!
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a brunch with friends or a family breakfast, this casserole feeds a crowd and is sure to impress. Everyone will love digging into this cheesy delight.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste! Add extra veggies, swap the meats, or adjust the spices to make it your own.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning. It’s a great way to save time and still serve an amazing breakfast!
Tips for Success with Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole
Want to ensure your Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole turns out absolutely perfect? I’ve got some pro tips that’ll help you nail it every time!
- Spice Levels: If you like a little heat, consider adding more jalapeños or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture. Conversely, if spice isn’t your thing, feel free to skip the jalapeños entirely or use bell peppers for a milder flavor.
- Ingredient Swaps: Don’t hesitate to mix it up! You can swap the breakfast sausage for turkey sausage or even crumbled bacon for a different flavor profile. Veggie lovers can replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Cheese Choices: While I love cheddar, you can try pepper jack for a kick, or even a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts well!
- Make it Ahead: Assembling the casserole the night before is a game-changer! Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. In the morning, pop it straight into the oven and enjoy a hassle-free breakfast.
- Garnishes: Don’t forget the toppings! Fresh avocado, sour cream, or a sprinkle of cilantro add a delicious finishing touch that elevates this dish even more.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole that’s a crowd-pleaser and a breakfast hero. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!
Nutritional Information for Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole
When it comes to enjoying this Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole, knowing the nutritional breakdown can be super helpful, especially if you’re keeping an eye on your diet. Here’s a typical estimate per serving (1 slice):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and any modifications you make. So, if you decide to swap out ingredients or add extra toppings, just be aware that the nutritional content may change a bit. Enjoy your delicious casserole guilt-free, knowing you’re savoring every flavorful bite!
FAQ About Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast!
What can I substitute for breakfast sausage?
Feel free to swap the breakfast sausage for turkey sausage, crumbled bacon, or even a plant-based sausage if you want a lighter or vegetarian option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Just reheat portions in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through!
Can I freeze the Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly and store it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
What toppings do you recommend?
I love adding fresh avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of cilantro on top! You can also serve it with salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick. Get creative with your toppings!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So you’ve made this delicious Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole, and now you have some leftovers—lucky you! Properly storing your casserole will keep those flavors fresh for your next meal. Here’s how to do it:
First, let the casserole cool completely at room temperature. Once it’s cool, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This will help prevent it from drying out and keep it tasting just as amazing as the first day. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the casserole! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It’ll stay good for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it out in the fridge overnight.
Now, for reheating, I recommend using the oven for the best texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil to keep it from drying out. Bake for about 20–25 minutes or until it’s heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1–2 minutes, but keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get rubbery.
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bite of your Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole. Enjoy!
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Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole: 5 Flavorful Secrets Revealed
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty breakfast casserole loaded with nacho flavors.
Ingredients
- 8 corn tortillas, cut into triangles
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage until browned.
- In a large bowl, mix eggs, milk, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Layer the tortilla triangles in a greased baking dish.
- Add cooked sausage, black beans, tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and half of the cheese over the tortillas.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the eggs are set.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add other toppings like avocado or sour cream.
- This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Adjust spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole