Mexicana Brunch Pie
A flavorful Mexican-inspired brunch pie featuring cheesy ricotta, Monterey Jack, and green chiles, perfect for a savory start to your weekend or brunch gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine eggs, melted butter or margarine, flour, and baking powder in a mixing bowl; beat well at medium speed of an electric mixer.
- Stir in ricotta cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and drained chopped green chiles.
- Pour the mixture into a well-greased 9-inch pie plate.
- Bake at 400°F for 10 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F and bake about 20 minutes or until set.
- Cut into wedges to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, whip the egg whites separately and fold them in at the end. You can substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with pepper jack for added heat. If you don't have ricotta, cottage cheese can work in a pinch, but drain it well to avoid excess moisture. Consider adding ingredients like diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor, similar to those found in My Sister-In-Law'S Hot Mexican Dip.
Serving Suggestions
This Mexicana Brunch Pie is perfect for a weekend brunch and pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of Siesta Salad for a refreshing contrast. Serve it warm with a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top for an extra kick. It also makes a great addition to a potluck or as a hearty breakfast option alongside Tex-Mex favorites.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring the pie is warmed evenly without drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexicana Brunch Pie contains roughly 271 calories, with 4g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% 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 pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and pour it into the pie plate a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bake it the next morning for a quick brunch option. Just be aware it may take a few extra minutes to set in the oven if it's cold from the fridge.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This Mexicana Brunch Pie is a vegetarian dish, as it features eggs, cheese, and chiles without any meat. It's a great option for those following vegetarian recipes, providing a hearty and satisfying meal packed with flavor.
What can I add to customize the flavor?
You can customize this pie by adding ingredients like cooked chorizo or black beans for a heartier filling. Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions can also enhance the flavor. For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños or using spicy cheese. These additions can elevate the dish, similar to the flavors in Becky'S Mexican Casserole.
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).