Nana Gracia'S Chilaquales
Nana Gracia's Chilaquiles feature crispy tortilla chips smothered in flavorful red chili sauce, topped with cheese, sour cream, olives, and green onions—perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Tear the tortillas into small bite-sized pieces and fry in light oil until crisp.
- Drain the chips and set aside on a paper towel.
- If using chorizo, brown it now together with the chopped green onions.
- If not using chorizo, lightly brown the onions and then add the sliced black olives.
- Layer the tortilla chips, cooked chorizo and onions (if used), and olives in a casserole dish.
- Pour the red chili sauce over all the ingredients.
- Sprinkle the grated Monterey Jack cheese on top.
- Add a few dollops of sour cream over the casserole.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 25 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or oregano to the red chili sauce. If you want a healthier twist, use whole grain tortillas instead of corn. You can also substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with a pepper jack for a spicier kick. If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply skip the chorizo and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chilaquiles hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or avocado slices for a burst of freshness. They pair wonderfully with a side of refried beans or a simple green salad. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them alongside Spicy Mexican Cheese Dip for added flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the chilaquiles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use an oven or toaster oven to maintain the crispiness of the chips, warming them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the chips soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nana Gracia'S Chilaquales contains roughly 235 calories, with 9g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value), and protein (18% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 chilaquiles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Fry the tortilla pieces and prepare the sauce, then assemble the dish just before baking. This will ensure the chips remain crispy. However, it's best to bake it fresh for optimal texture.
What can I substitute for the chorizo?
You can replace chorizo with other proteins like ground turkey or beef, or make it vegetarian by using black beans or lentils. Tofu crumbles are also a great option for a plant-based alternative, adding protein while keeping the dish hearty.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Chilaquiles can be a great meal prep option. Prepare the components and store them separately, then assemble and bake when you're ready to eat. This way, you can enjoy fresh, delicious chilaquiles throughout the week without losing flavor or texture.
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).