El Paso Bake
A hearty baked casserole featuring tortillas, eggs, cheese, salsa, and optional meat, perfect for breakfast or brunch and bursting with savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Overlap the bottom of a greased 13 x 9-inch pan with tortillas.
- Beat eggs with milk, then add shredded cheese and salsa.
- Mix together the egg mixture.
- Add cooked and drained ground meat, if desired.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan over the tortillas.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about one hour, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using egg whites instead of whole eggs, and low-fat milk can also reduce calories. If you're short on tortillas, you can substitute with corn tortillas or even layers of cooked polenta. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. This dish is versatile, so adapt it to your taste preferences or dietary needs by incorporating ingredients from other Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the El Paso Bake with a side of fresh avocado slices or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top adds creaminess. This dish pairs beautifully with Marty'S Mexican Roll-Ups for a hearty dinner. For an appetizer, consider serving with Cowboy Caviar for a festive touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For a crispier texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. This makes for a great breakfast option throughout the week.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of El Paso Bake contains roughly 1822 calories, with 77g protein, 213g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (154% of the Daily Value), calcium (130% of the Daily Value), and iron (79% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2195mg per serving (95% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the ground meat and increase the amount of vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. You can also add black beans for protein. This makes it a delicious option for vegetarian recipes that everyone will enjoy.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Monterey Jack with other cheeses such as cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier kick. Mixing different types of cheese can enhance the flavor profile and make this dish even more delicious.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To control the spice level, choose a mild salsa or mix in a bit of hot sauce to your preference. You can also add diced jalapeños for extra heat. For a milder version, omit any spicy ingredients and focus on fresh herbs and flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).