Chilaquile Casserole

Chilaquile Casserole Recipe - Authentic Mexican Dish

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Chilaquiles is a traditional Mexican dish made with tortillas, chilies, cheese, and eggs. This Chilaquile Casserole recipe puts a twist on the classic dish by baking it in a casserole dish for a delicious and easy-to-make meal.

History

Chilaquiles have been a popular dish in Mexico for centuries, with variations found in different regions of the country. The dish is often made with leftover tortillas and salsa, making it a great way to use up ingredients and prevent food waste.

Ingredients

12 uncooked corn tortillas
1 medium Anaheim or poblano chili, minced (or 2 x 4 oz (113 g) cans diced green chilies)
2 to 3 cups grated jack cheese
4 eggs
2 cups buttermilk
salt and pepper

Optional items

1 to 2 cups cooked pinto beans
0.5 lb (227 g) firm tofu, thinly sliced
1 cup chopped onion, sautéed
1 to 2 garlic cloves, sautéed, minced
1 small zucchini, sliced and sautéed
dash of cumin, dried bell pepper, or oregano

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Butter or oil a 2 qt (1.89 liter) casserole or a 9-by-13 inches pan.
Tear 6 tortillas into bite-size pieces and spread them evenly in the casserole.
Spread half of the chilies and half of the cheese over the tortillas. (At this point, you can also add any optional items on top of the cheese).
Tear the remaining tortillas and spread them on top.
Follow with the remaining chilies and cheese.
Beat the eggs and buttermilk together with salt and pepper to taste, and pour slowly over the casserole.
Bake uncovered for 35 minutes.
Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or ground beef for a meatier version.
Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Top with crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese for a different flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the optional items like pinto beans and tofu.

- For a spicier dish, add more chilies or a dash of hot sauce.

- Make sure to tear the tortillas into bite-size pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite toppings like avocado, sour cream, or salsa.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Chilaquile Casserole with a side of fresh salsa, guacamole, and a green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the Chilaquile Casserole in the oven allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese to melt and bubble, creating a delicious and comforting dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients. You can substitute the jack cheese with cheddar or mozzarella, and the chilies with jalapenos or bell peppers.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare this Chilaquile Casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it in the oven when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Chilaquile Casserole with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a cold glass of horchata or agua fresca for a refreshing and authentic Mexican meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of this Chilaquile Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Chilaquile Casserole contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Chilaquile Casserole contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this Chilaquile Casserole contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of this Chilaquile Casserole contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of calcium, vitamin C, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and buttermilk) and gluten (tortillas).

Summary

This Chilaquile Casserole is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Chilaquile Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is easy to make and perfect for a family meal or gathering. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy the flavors of Mexico in every bite.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Chilaquile Casserole. It was a cool autumn day, and I had just finished helping my neighbor, Mrs. Rodriguez, with her garden. As a thank you, she invited me into her cozy kitchen for a cup of tea and a chat.

As we sat at her kitchen table sipping on our hot beverages, Mrs. Rodriguez began rummaging through her old recipe box, looking for something special to share with me. She finally pulled out a faded, stained index card with the words "Chilaquile Casserole" scrawled across the top.

"This is a family recipe that has been passed down for generations," she said with a smile. "I think you'll really enjoy it."

I watched intently as she read through the ingredients and instructions, my mouth watering at the thought of the delicious dish that was about to come to life. Mrs. Rodriguez explained that Chilaquile Casserole was a traditional Mexican dish made with layers of corn tortillas, salsa, cheese, and eggs. It was a comforting and hearty meal that was perfect for feeding a crowd.

As she began to gather the ingredients from her pantry and fridge, I couldn't help but ask her about the history behind the recipe. Mrs. Rodriguez's eyes lit up as she told me about her grandmother, who had learned how to make Chilaquile Casserole from her own mother many years ago. It was a dish that had been served at family gatherings, celebrations, and even on everyday occasions.

As she prepared the casserole, Mrs. Rodriguez shared with me tips and tricks that had been passed down through the generations. She showed me how to layer the tortillas just right so that they would soak up the flavorful salsa, how to sprinkle the cheese evenly to ensure each bite was perfectly cheesy, and how to crack the eggs in a way that would create a creamy and delicious topping.

Once the casserole was assembled and popped into the oven, Mrs. Rodriguez and I sat back at the kitchen table, chatting and sipping on our tea as the tantalizing aroma of the dish filled the room. When the timer finally went off, we eagerly pulled the bubbling casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before digging in.

The first bite of the Chilaquile Casserole was pure heaven. The crispy tortillas, tangy salsa, gooey cheese, and creamy eggs all melded together in a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds. Mrs. Rodriguez chuckled at my wide-eyed expression, knowing that she had just introduced me to a recipe that would become a staple in my own kitchen.

From that day on, I made Chilaquile Casserole for my family and friends, sharing with them the story of how I learned the recipe from Mrs. Rodriguez. Each time I made the dish, I felt a deep connection to the generations of women who had cooked it before me, passing down their love, traditions, and flavors through the simple act of preparing a meal.

As I sit here now, years later, with my own recipe box filled with cherished recipes and memories, I can't help but feel grateful for the day I first saw the recipe for Chilaquile Casserole. It taught me not only how to make a delicious dish but also the importance of preserving family traditions and sharing the joy of cooking with others. And for that, I will always be thankful to Mrs. Rodriguez and her precious recipe box.