Texas Tarts
Texas Tarts are cheesy, spicy snack bites with green chilies and a rich cheese filling, perfect for breakfast or a flavorful appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grate the Jack cheese and Cheddar cheese, then mix and divide in half.
- Beat the eggs, then add the milk, flour, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
- Grease a 9 x 12-inch pan.
- Spread half of the cheese mixture in the pan.
- Spread the chopped green chilies over the cheese layer.
- Add the remaining cheese mixture over the chilies.
- Pour the egg, milk, and flour mixture evenly over all the layers.
- Bake for about 1 hour at 325°F.
- Cut into squares to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture. If you don’t have Jack cheese, try using Monterey Jack or a similar mild cheese. You can also substitute the Cheddar with a sharp white Cheddar for more flavor. Make sure to evenly distribute the layers for balanced bites, similar to the layering technique in Cheezy Spinach Pinwheels.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Texas Tarts warm, cut into squares, as a hearty appetizer or a main dish. They pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or guacamole for a complete meal. Consider serving alongside salsa or sour cream for dipping. For a delightful dessert, finish your meal with Date-Raisin-Nut Cookies to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the Texas Tarts to cool completely, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For reheating, place them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual servings for about 30-45 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Tarts contains roughly 327 calories, with 6g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of calcium (19% of the Daily Value), iron (15% of the Daily Value), and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1216mg per serving (53% 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 Texas Tarts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers ahead of time and assemble them in the pan. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I use instead of green chilies?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can replace green chilies with diced bell peppers or even omit them entirely. For additional flavor, consider using roasted red peppers or a mild salsa.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, the Texas Tarts are vegetarian-friendly, as they contain no meat. However, be sure to check the specific brands of cheese and any other processed ingredients for vegetarian compliance.
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).