Are busy mornings leaving you scrambling for breakfast? Try my easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Burrito Casserole! Packed with eggs, cheese, and your choice of chorizo or veggies, this dish is both satisfying and simple to prepare. You can make it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and transform your breakfast routine!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients for Breakfast Burrito Casserole
To make a tasty breakfast burrito casserole, you need a few key ingredients:
– 8 large flour tortillas
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cooked chorizo (or a vegetarian alternative)
– 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
These ingredients blend well together. They create a filling and savory dish that the whole family will love.
Alternatives for Key Ingredients (Chorizo and Vegetarian Options)
If you want to switch things up, try these alternatives:
– Chorizo: Use any cooked sausage, like turkey sausage or chicken sausage. For a vegetarian option, use crumbled tofu or tempeh with spices.
– Tortillas: Instead of flour, you can choose corn tortillas for a gluten-free version.
– Cheese: Try pepper jack cheese for extra heat, or use a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
These swaps can help you tailor the dish to your taste and dietary needs.
Suggested Toppings and Garnishes
Toppings can add flavor and fun to your casserole. Here are some great options:
– Fresh cilantro, chopped
– Salsa or pico de gallo
– Avocado or guacamole
– Sour cream or Greek yogurt
– Sliced jalapeños for heat
Feel free to mix and match these toppings. They will bring your breakfast burrito casserole to life!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Vegetables and Sautéing
Start by dicing one small onion and one red bell pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté them for about five minutes. You want them soft and fragrant. Next, mince two cloves of garlic. Add the garlic to the skillet. Cook for one more minute. This brings out the garlic’s flavor.
Preparing the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk six large eggs and one cup of milk together. Then add one teaspoon of ground cumin and one teaspoon of chili powder. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Mix it well until smooth. Pour this egg mixture into the skillet with the veggies. Cook gently while stirring for about five to seven minutes. The eggs should just set. Now, stir in one cup of cooked chorizo and one cup of rinsed black beans. Mix everything until well combined.
Assembling the Casserole
Take eight large flour tortillas and lay them flat. Scoop about one-third of the egg mixture onto each tortilla. Sprinkle a little cheddar cheese on top of the filling. Fold the sides of the tortillas over the filling. Place them seam-side down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Once all the tortillas are in the dish, pour any leftover egg mixture on top. Finish by sprinkling the rest of the cheddar cheese evenly across the casserole. Cover the dish with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden brown. After baking, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfectly Cook the Eggs
To cook the eggs just right, keep the heat low. You want them to cook slowly. This way, they stay soft and fluffy. Stir gently while cooking. This helps mix in the chorizo and beans evenly. Watch them closely, as they can overcook fast. They only need about 5-7 minutes on the stove. Remove them from heat when they are still slightly runny. They will continue to cook in the oven.
Storage Tips for Make-Ahead Casserole
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for later. If you plan to make it ahead, cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, try freezing it. Just make sure to wrap it tightly. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. Label the container with the date to track freshness.
Cooking Options: Oven vs. Microwave
You can cook your casserole in two ways: the oven or microwave. The oven gives a crisp top and warm inside. Bake it at 350°F for about 35-40 minutes. If you are short on time, use the microwave. Heat it in 2-minute intervals until warm. The microwave may not brown the cheese, but it still tastes great. Choose the method that fits your schedule!
Variations
Vegetarian Breakfast Burrito Casserole
You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Simply swap chorizo for a plant-based option. I like using black beans or diced mushrooms. These add great flavor and texture. Use the same spices to keep it tasty. Your friends will love it, and they won’t miss the meat.
Adding Extra Veggies or Spices
Feel free to add more veggies to suit your taste. Spinach or zucchini work well. You can also mix in jalapeños for some heat. If you want more flavor, add smoked paprika or cayenne pepper. This dish is all about your preferences, so have fun with it!
Low-Carb or Gluten-Free Alternatives
For a low-carb version, use cauliflower tortillas instead of flour. They hold up nicely and add a new taste. If you need it gluten-free, check the labels on your tortillas. Many brands offer gluten-free options that work great. You can enjoy this dish without worry.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers Properly
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool to room temperature. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. This keeps the casserole fresh and prevents it from drying out. Store it in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing Instructions for Make-Ahead Meals
Freezing is a great way to save your breakfast burrito casserole. To freeze, first, let it cool completely. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This method prevents freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips for Best Results
To reheat the casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. If you are reheating individual portions, place them on a baking sheet. You can also microwave portions on high for 2-3 minutes. Check to ensure they are heated through. Enjoy your tasty meal just as if it were fresh!
FAQs
Can I make the casserole the night before?
Yes, you can make the casserole the night before. Prepare it fully and cover it well. Store it in the fridge overnight. This saves time in the morning. Just bake it in the oven when you are ready to eat.
How long does the casserole last in the fridge?
The casserole lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to keep it covered. This keeps it fresh and tasty. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
What can I serve with breakfast burrito casserole?
You can serve many things with this casserole. Here are some ideas:
– Fresh salsa
– Avocado slices
– Sour cream
– Chopped green onions
– A side salad
These options add flavor and make the meal more fun!
We covered a lot about making a delicious breakfast burrito casserole. You learned about the key ingredients, from chorizo to vegetarian choices. I shared easy steps to prep and cook this dish. Tips on storing and reheating ensure your casserole stays tasty. You can even explore fun variations.
In the end, this casserole is versatile and simple. It’s perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings. Enjoy making it, and share it with family and friends!
