New Mexico Breakfast Of Champions
A hearty breakfast casserole combining savory sausage, chorizo, melted cheddar, and eggs with bread cubes, perfect for feeding a crowd or weekend brunch. Its layered flavors and comforting texture make it a favorite for gatherings, family mornings, or special occasions where a filling, delicious start is desired.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slightly butter a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Butter the bread and chop into cubes.
- Cook the sausage and chorizo and drain.
- Place bread cubes in the prepared dish.
- Layer the cooked chorizo and sausage over the bread.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of grated Cheddar cheese over the meat layer.
- Beat the eggs and milk together, then pour over the layered ingredients.
- Cover the dish and let it set overnight in the refrigerator.
- Before baking, sprinkle with 1/2 cup grated Cheddar cheese and chopped green chilies.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 35 to 45 minutes until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack, instead of Cheddar. You can also substitute the sausage and chorizo with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. If you're short on time, you can prepare the dish without letting it set overnight, but the flavors develop better when allowed to sit. Don't forget to adjust the seasonings to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This breakfast casserole pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices on top. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside crispy bacon or hash browns. This dish is great for brunch or as part of a larger breakfast spread, similar to other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New Mexico Breakfast Of Champions contains roughly 777 calories, with 25g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), calcium (48% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1052mg per serving (46% 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 prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, this casserole is perfect for preparing ahead of time. After assembling the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the egg and milk mixture, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
Can I freeze the New Mexico Breakfast Of Champions?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you're ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. It can also be frozen after baking, but be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
What can I substitute for the chorizo?
If chorizo is not available, you can use spicy Italian sausage, ground turkey, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, so adjust your spices accordingly to maintain a robust taste.
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).