Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious breakfast or brunch recipe that’s also packed with protein and flavor? Look no further! This Tortilla Egg Bake is the perfect solution for busy mornings or a relaxed weekend gathering. It's a simple recipe that yields a fantastically flavorful and satisfying dish, perfect for meal prepping or a spontaneous get-together. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – delicious, healthy, and surprisingly simple!
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped jalapenos (optional, for a spicy kick!)
- 6 small flour tortillas (or 4 large)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Finely chop the onion and bell pepper. If using, chop the olives and jalapeños as well. This is a great time to get your kids involved in the cooking process! Smaller hands can do a surprisingly good job chopping softer vegetables.
Step 2: Whisk the Eggs
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until light and frothy. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies (Optional)
For an extra layer of flavor, you can lightly sauté the onions and peppers in a pan with a little olive oil before adding them to the egg mixture. This step takes about 5 minutes and makes a noticeable difference.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the sautéed (or raw) vegetables, cheese, olives (if using), and jalapeños (if using) to the egg mixture. Stir gently to combine.
Step 5: Assemble the Bake
Lightly grease a baking dish (approximately 8x8 inches). Layer three tortillas on the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping if necessary. Pour half of the egg mixture over the tortillas. Top with the remaining tortillas, and pour the rest of the egg mixture over the top.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end, as ovens can vary.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the egg bake cool slightly before cutting into squares and serving. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast, a satisfying brunch, or even a light dinner.
Cooking Tips for the Best Tortilla Egg Bake:
- Don't overbake! Overbaking will result in a dry egg bake. Start checking for doneness around 20 minutes.
- Experiment with fillings! Feel free to add other vegetables, meats (cooked sausage or bacon would be delicious), or different cheeses to customize your egg bake.
- Make it ahead! This egg bake can be assembled the night before and baked in the morning, making it a perfect make-ahead breakfast for busy weekdays.
Variations:
- Spicy Tortilla Egg Bake: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the egg mixture for an extra kick.
- Veggie Lover's Tortilla Egg Bake: Add spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or any other vegetables you enjoy.
- Cheesy Tortilla Egg Bake: Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Mexican blend for a more intense cheesy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Tortilla Egg Bake is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a versatile dish that can easily be adapted to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a perfect choice for quick dinner ideas or any meal throughout the day. Enjoy!