Chilaquiles Frittata Recipe

My family are self-proclaimed breakfast fanatics, and we’re always on the hunt for dishes that break the monotony of our usual rotation. Pancakes, waffles, eggs benedict – we love them all, but sometimes you crave something with a bit more zing. That’s when I stumbled upon the genius idea of a Chilaquiles Frittata. The name itself was intriguing, promising a delightful fusion of two breakfast titans. Let me tell you, the reality exceeded all expectations. The vibrant, tangy tomato sauce soaked into crispy tortilla chips, cradled within a fluffy, cheesy frittata – it was a breakfast revelation! Even my pickiest eater, who usually shies away from anything remotely “spicy,” devoured a generous slice, declaring it “the best breakfast ever!” The combination of textures and flavors is just incredible. You get the satisfying crunch of the chips, the soft, creamy eggs, the savory tomato sauce, and the fresh, bright garnishes. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, perfect for a weekend brunch or a special weekday morning treat. If you’re looking to spice up your breakfast routine and impress your family or guests, look no further. This Chilaquiles Frittata is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds – and the recipe!

Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor

Creating a truly exceptional Chilaquiles Frittata hinges on using quality ingredients that harmonize to deliver a symphony of textures and tastes. Each component plays a vital role in the final dish, so let’s delve into the specifics of what you’ll need and why each ingredient is essential.

• 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil: The unassuming hero of the initial stages, vegetable oil is crucial for sautéing the tomato sauce and ensuring the chips get beautifully coated. Its neutral flavor profile allows the vibrant taste of the tomato sauce to shine through without interference. You can opt for other neutral oils like canola or grapeseed oil, but vegetable oil is readily available and works perfectly. The oil also helps to prevent the sauce from sticking to the skillet, making the subsequent steps smoother.
• 2 (7oz) cans Mexican Hot Style Tomato Sauce: This is where the heart and soul of the chilaquiles flavor comes from. Mexican hot style tomato sauce isn’t just your average tomato sauce. It’s typically infused with chili peppers and spices, providing a rich, tangy, and subtly spicy base that is characteristic of chilaquiles. Using canned sauce is a fantastic shortcut that saves time without compromising on flavor. When choosing your cans, look for brands that specifically label “Mexican Hot Style” or “Chilaquiles Sauce.” If you prefer a milder flavor, you can opt for a mild Mexican tomato sauce or even regular tomato sauce and add a pinch of chili powder and cumin to taste. For those who are adventurous and have some extra time, you can even make your own homemade Mexican tomato sauce for an even deeper and more authentic flavor.
• 4 cups (4 handfuls) Tortilla Chips: The tortilla chips are the textural backbone of this frittata, mimicking the classic chilaquiles experience. It’s important to use sturdy tortilla chips that can withstand being coated in sauce and baked without becoming completely mushy. Look for thicker, restaurant-style tortilla chips. Avoid the very thin and delicate supermarket varieties, as they tend to disintegrate easily. The flavor of the chips also matters. Plain, lightly salted tortilla chips are ideal, as they allow the tomato sauce and cheese flavors to take center stage. You can experiment with different types of tortilla chips if you like – blue corn chips will add a slightly nutty flavor and a beautiful visual contrast, while yellow corn chips offer a classic corn taste. For a gluten-free option, ensure your tortilla chips are certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain traces of wheat.
• 1/2 cup Monterey Jack Cheese, Shredded: Monterey Jack cheese is the quintessential melting cheese for Mexican-inspired dishes, and it’s the perfect choice for this frittata. Its mild, buttery flavor complements the tangy tomato sauce without overpowering it. More importantly, it melts beautifully, creating a luscious, gooey layer on top of the frittata that is incredibly satisfying. Shredding the cheese yourself from a block ensures the best meltability and freshness compared to pre-shredded cheese, which often contains cellulose to prevent clumping and can hinder melting. If you can’t find Monterey Jack, you can substitute it with other mild, melting cheeses like Oaxaca, mild cheddar, or even mozzarella. For a spicier kick, consider using Pepper Jack cheese.
• 10 Large Eggs: Eggs are the structural foundation of the frittata, binding all the ingredients together and providing richness and protein. Large eggs are specified in the recipe to ensure the correct ratio of eggs to other ingredients. Using fresh, high-quality eggs will always result in a better-tasting frittata. The eggs should be whisked thoroughly to incorporate air, which contributes to the frittata’s light and fluffy texture. If you need to adjust the yield of the recipe, remember that the egg quantity is a key factor in the overall structure and cooking time.
• 2 tablespoons Milk (or Cream): A touch of dairy, whether milk or cream, adds moisture and tenderness to the frittata. Milk provides a lighter texture, while cream will result in a richer and more decadent frittata. You can use whole milk, 2% milk, or even non-dairy milk alternatives like almond milk or oat milk, although these may slightly alter the flavor and texture. For a truly indulgent frittata, heavy cream or half-and-half is a fantastic choice. The dairy helps to emulsify the egg mixture and prevents the frittata from becoming dry or rubbery.
• 1 teaspoon Salt: Salt is a crucial flavor enhancer that balances the sweetness of the tomato sauce and brings out the savory notes of the cheese and eggs. Use kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor. Adjust the amount of salt to your preference, especially considering the saltiness of the tortilla chips and cheese.
• 1 teaspoon Black Pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the frittata. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its more vibrant aroma and flavor compared to pre-ground pepper. Like salt, adjust the amount of pepper to your taste.
• Sliced Radishes, for Garnish: Radishes provide a refreshing crunch and a peppery bite that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the frittata. Their vibrant color also adds a visually appealing element to the dish. Thinly sliced radishes are ideal for garnish.
• Fresh Cilantro, for Garnish: Fresh cilantro is an essential herb in Mexican cuisine, and its bright, citrusy flavor complements the tomato sauce and cheese perfectly. Roughly chopped cilantro is sprinkled over the frittata just before serving, adding a burst of freshness and aroma.
• 1/4 cup Crumbled Queso Fresco, for Garnish (optional): Queso fresco, meaning “fresh cheese,” is a mild, crumbly Mexican cheese that adds a salty and slightly tangy note to the frittata. It provides a different textural and flavor dimension compared to the melted Monterey Jack. While optional, queso fresco is highly recommended for adding an extra layer of authentic Mexican flavor and visual appeal. If you can’t find queso fresco, you can substitute it with feta cheese or cotija cheese, although these will have slightly different flavor profiles.

Instructions: Crafting Your Chilaquiles Frittata Step-by-Step

The beauty of this Chilaquiles Frittata lies not only in its delicious flavor but also in its relatively straightforward preparation. Follow these detailed instructions to create a breakfast masterpiece that’s sure to impress.

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).: Starting with a properly preheated oven is crucial for even cooking and achieving the desired puffed and golden brown texture of the frittata. Make sure your oven reaches the correct temperature before you place the skillet inside. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes depending on your oven. Preheating ensures that the frittata cooks consistently from all sides, preventing it from being undercooked in the center or overcooked on the edges.
2. In an oven-safe skillet (cast iron), heat the vegetable oil and tomato sauce over medium heat. Choosing the right skillet is important. A cast iron skillet is ideal because it retains heat beautifully and distributes it evenly, which is essential for cooking the tomato sauce and baking the frittata. If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, any oven-safe skillet that is around 10-12 inches in diameter will work. Avoid using skillets with plastic handles that are not oven-safe. Heat the vegetable oil in the skillet over medium heat until it shimmers slightly. Then, pour in the Mexican hot style tomato sauce.
3. Cook for a few minutes until bubbly and slightly reduced. Once the tomato sauce is in the skillet, let it cook over medium heat for a few minutes. You’ll notice it starts to bubble and slightly thicken. This simmering process helps to deepen the flavor of the tomato sauce and reduce some of the excess liquid, which is important for preventing the frittata from becoming soggy. Stir the sauce occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
4. Add the chips a bit at a time, tossing with tongs to fully coat in sauce. Continue to toss and cook until the sauce has absorbed. This is the key step in creating the chilaquiles element of the frittata. Add the tortilla chips to the skillet a handful at a time. Use tongs to gently toss the chips with the tomato sauce, ensuring that each chip is thoroughly coated. Continue to toss and cook the chips in the sauce for a few minutes. You’ll notice that the chips start to soften slightly as they absorb the sauce, but they should still retain some texture. The goal is to coat the chips evenly and let them soak up the flavorful tomato sauce, mimicking the classic chilaquiles preparation. Remove the skillet from the heat after this step.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt and pepper. While the chips are absorbing the sauce, prepare the egg mixture. In a large bowl, crack the 10 large eggs. Add the milk (or cream), salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk to thoroughly combine all the ingredients. Whisk vigorously for about a minute until the eggs are light and frothy and the mixture is homogenous. This step incorporates air into the eggs, which contributes to the frittata’s fluffy texture.
6. Add the egg mixture to the skillet over the chilaquiles. Carefully pour the whisked egg mixture evenly over the saucy tortilla chips in the skillet. Ensure that the eggs are distributed throughout the skillet and cover all the chips. Use a spatula or spoon to gently distribute the chips if needed to ensure even egg coverage.
7. Top with the Monterey Jack cheese and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the egg mixture. Place the skillet in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the frittata is puffed up, golden brown on top, and set in the center. To check for doneness, gently jiggle the skillet. The frittata should be mostly set with just a slight wiggle in the very center. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the frittata and adjust the baking time as needed.
8. Remove from the oven and top with desired garnishes. Once the frittata is baked to perfection, carefully remove the skillet from the oven using oven mitts. Let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing. While it’s cooling, prepare your garnishes: slice the radishes thinly, roughly chop the fresh cilantro, and crumble the queso fresco if using. Sprinkle the sliced radishes, fresh cilantro, and crumbled queso fresco (if using) generously over the top of the frittata.
9. Cut and serve right away. Enjoy! Cut the Chilaquiles Frittata into wedges and serve immediately. It’s best enjoyed warm, when the chips are still slightly crispy and the cheese is gooey. Serve each slice with extra garnishes if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate)

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving (approximate): 350-400 calories (This is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities, especially cheese and oil.)

This nutritional estimate is based on the ingredients listed and standard serving sizes. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, you can use online nutritional calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Keep in mind that this is just an approximation and should be used as a general guideline.

Preparation Time: Quick and Convenient

• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

This Chilaquiles Frittata is a winner for those mornings when you crave a delicious and satisfying breakfast without spending hours in the kitchen. The active cooking time is relatively short, making it perfect for weekend brunches or even a slightly more elaborate weekday breakfast. The total time includes the oven preheating, ingredient preparation, cooking, and baking time.

How to Serve: Elevate Your Frittata Experience

Serving your Chilaquiles Frittata is just as important as the cooking process itself. Here are some ideas to make your presentation and dining experience exceptional:

• Classic Brunch Style:
  • Serve warm, directly from the skillet for a rustic and family-style presentation.
  • Cut into wedges and arrange on individual plates.
  • Offer a side of sour cream or Mexican crema for extra richness and tang.
  • A dollop of guacamole can add a creamy, fresh element.
• Make it a Fiesta:
  • Pair with a side of black beans or refried beans for a heartier meal.
  • Serve with a fresh salsa, like pico de gallo or salsa verde, for added flavor and freshness.
  • Offer a selection of hot sauces for those who like extra spice.
  • A refreshing side salad with a light lime vinaigrette can balance the richness of the frittata.
• Breakfast Taco Bar Vibe:
  • Serve smaller wedges of the frittata alongside warm corn or flour tortillas.
  • Let everyone build their own breakfast tacos with the frittata, garnishes, and salsa.
  • Offer a variety of toppings like pickled onions, jalapeños, and different types of cheese.
• Drinks to Pair:
  • Coffee: A classic pairing for breakfast, coffee complements the savory flavors of the frittata.
  • Fresh Juice: Orange juice, grapefruit juice, or a tropical fruit juice provide a refreshing contrast.
  • Mimosas or Bloody Marys: For a weekend brunch, these cocktails are always a festive choice.
  • Agua Frescas: For a non-alcoholic and authentically Mexican option, try agua frescas like hibiscus (jamaica) or horchata.
• Presentation Tips:
  • Garnish generously! The radishes, cilantro, and queso fresco not only add flavor but also make the dish visually appealing.
  • Use a nice serving platter or keep it in the cast iron skillet for a rustic charm.
  • Serve with colorful napkins and placemats to enhance the festive Mexican theme.

Additional Tips for Chilaquiles Frittata Perfection

Want to take your Chilaquiles Frittata to the next level? Here are five essential tips to ensure success every time:

1. Don’t Overcook the Chips: While you want the tortilla chips to absorb the tomato sauce, avoid cooking them for too long in the sauce. Overcooked chips will become too mushy and lose their texture in the frittata. Toss them just until they are coated and slightly softened, but still have some structure.
2. Whisk Eggs Thoroughly: Properly whisking the eggs is key to a fluffy frittata. Whisk for at least a minute until the eggs are light and airy. This incorporates air, which expands during baking and creates a light and tender texture.
3. Use Oven-Safe Skillet: Ensure your skillet is oven-safe before starting the recipe. Cast iron skillets are ideal, but any oven-safe skillet without plastic components will work. Using the same skillet for both stovetop and oven cooking minimizes cleanup and ensures even cooking.
4. Customize Your Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier frittata, use a hotter Mexican tomato sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce while it’s simmering. For a milder version, use a mild Mexican tomato sauce or regular tomato sauce with a touch of cumin and chili powder.
5. Garnish Generously and Freshly: Don’t skimp on the garnishes! Fresh radishes, cilantro, and queso fresco add crucial flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Add the garnishes just before serving to ensure they are fresh and vibrant.

FAQ Section: Your Chilaquiles Frittata Questions Answered

Let’s address some common questions you might have about making this delightful Chilaquiles Frittata, focusing on ingredients and substitutions.

Q1: Can I use different types of tortilla chips?

A: Absolutely! While sturdy, restaurant-style yellow corn tortilla chips are recommended, you can definitely experiment. Blue corn chips will add a nutty flavor and beautiful color contrast. Tri-color chips can also be visually appealing. Just ensure the chips are thick enough to hold their shape when coated in sauce and baked. Avoid very thin, delicate chips as they might become too mushy.

Q2: Can I use a different cheese instead of Monterey Jack?

A: Yes, Monterey Jack is recommended for its mild flavor and excellent melting properties, but you have options! Oaxaca cheese is a fantastic alternative, offering a similar mild flavor and incredible melt. Mild cheddar or even mozzarella can also work well. For a spicier kick, consider using Pepper Jack cheese. If you want a sharper flavor, a mild white cheddar could also be used.

Q3: Can I make this frittata vegetarian/vegan?

A: To make this vegetarian, simply follow the recipe as is! It’s naturally vegetarian. For a vegan version, the main challenge is replacing the eggs. You could try using a vegan egg substitute like a chickpea flour batter or a commercial egg replacer specifically designed for frittatas or quiches. For the cheese, use your favorite vegan shredded cheese alternative. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor might differ from the original recipe, but it’s definitely possible to create a delicious vegan Chilaquiles Frittata.

Q4: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned Mexican tomato sauce?

A: Yes, you can definitely make your own tomato sauce using fresh tomatoes! For a similar flavor profile to Mexican hot style tomato sauce, you’ll want to roast or sauté fresh tomatoes with onions, garlic, jalapeños or serrano peppers, and spices like cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Simmer the sauce until it thickens and the flavors meld together. Using fresh tomatoes will result in a brighter, fresher-tasting sauce, but it will require more preparation time.

Q5: Can I add meat to this Chilaquiles Frittata?

A: Absolutely! Adding cooked meat can make this frittata even heartier. Shredded cooked chicken, chorizo, or crumbled cooked breakfast sausage would all be delicious additions. You can add the cooked meat to the skillet along with the tortilla chips, tossing them together with the tomato sauce. Alternatively, you can sprinkle the cooked meat over the egg mixture before baking, along with the Monterey Jack cheese. Consider using pre-cooked or leftover cooked meat to streamline the preparation process.

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