Tortilla Quiche Breakfast Bake Easy and Filling Dish

Are you ready for a breakfast that’s easy, filling, and oh-so-delicious? Meet the Tortilla Quiche Breakfast Bake! This dish combines layers of corn tortillas, eggs, and cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser for family brunches or quick weekday meals. With a sprinkle of spices and your favorite add-ins, it’s customizable for any taste. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this tasty breakfast in no time!

Ingredients

List of Essential Ingredients

- 6 small corn tortillas

- 4 large eggs

- 1 cup milk

- 1 cup shredded cheese (choose cheddar or a Mexican blend)

The core of this dish lies in its essential ingredients. First, you need six small corn tortillas. They create a sturdy base and add great flavor. Next, four large eggs combine with one cup of milk for a creamy mixture. Lastly, one cup of shredded cheese, either cheddar or a Mexican blend, gives it that gooey, melty texture we all love.

Optional Ingredients

- 1 cup cooked chorizo or your preferred breakfast sausage

- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green works well)

- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped

- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

For added flavor, consider optional ingredients. One cup of cooked chorizo or your favorite breakfast sausage adds protein and zest. Adding a bell pepper, diced, brings color and sweetness. A finely chopped onion enhances the base flavors. Lastly, one cup of fresh spinach adds nutrition and a pop of green.

Seasoning and Garnishes

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

- Fresh cilantro, for garnish

- Slices of avocado, for serving

Seasoning is key for a great taste. Use one teaspoon of ground cumin to give warmth and depth. Don’t forget to add salt and fresh black pepper to taste. For a lovely touch, garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with slices of avocado for a creamy finish that pairs well with the other flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps cook the dish evenly.

- Next, generously grease a 9x9 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or olive oil. This step keeps your quiche from sticking.

- Now, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.

- After that, stir in the chopped spinach. Cook for another minute or two until it wilts. Remove from heat and set this mixture aside.

Layering the Ingredients

- Take three corn tortillas and lay them at the bottom of the greased dish. Overlap them slightly to create a solid base.

- Evenly spread the sautéed vegetable mixture over the tortillas. Then, sprinkle half of the cooked chorizo on top for extra flavor.

- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. Stir in the ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.

- Pour half of the egg mix over the veggie and chorizo layers. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.

- Repeat the layering. Add the remaining tortillas, then the rest of the chorizo. Pour the remaining egg mix over everything, and top with the last of the cheese.

Baking Process

- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes.

- After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes. Check that the eggs are fully set and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

- Once done, let the dish cool for about 5 minutes. This makes it easier to slice into squares for serving.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Your Quiche

To make sure the eggs are set, bake the quiche until it is firm in the center. You can gently shake the dish to check. If it jiggles too much, it needs more time. The cheese should melt nicely and bubble on top. For a great melt, use cheese at room temperature. This helps it melt evenly.

Serving Suggestions

For a lovely presentation, slice the quiche into squares and serve warm. Top each slice with fresh cilantro for color and flavor. Slices of avocado on the side add a creamy touch. Pair this dish with fresh fruit or a light salad for a complete breakfast. This balance of flavors and textures makes each bite delightful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A common mistake is overcooking the quiche. This can make it dry and tough. Watch the time closely and check for doneness. Undercooking can also be an issue. If the eggs are too runny, it won’t be enjoyable.

Choosing the right tortilla type matters too. Corn tortillas are ideal for this dish, as they hold up well. Flour tortillas can become too soft and mushy. Stick with corn for the best results.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily switch up the ingredients in your Tortilla Quiche Breakfast Bake. If you want a vegetarian dish, skip the chorizo. You can add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes. These will give you a hearty, filling meal without the meat.

If you enjoy turkey sausage or chicken sausage, use those instead of chorizo. They add great flavor and lower fat. You can also try tofu or tempeh for plant-based protein.

Flavor Enhancements

To add some spice, consider mixing in chili powder or paprika. A pinch of cayenne can wake up the flavors too! If you like fresh herbs, add chopped basil or oregano for an aromatic touch.

You can also load up on veggies. Try adding diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or even corn. Each new ingredient adds a fun twist to the dish.

Different Serving Styles

For bite-sized fun, you can make individual quiches in muffin tins. Just cut the tortillas into smaller circles and layer them like in the original recipe. This way, everyone can enjoy their own mini quiche!

Another great idea is to create mini quiches. Use the same ingredients but change the layers a bit. Instead of one big bake, you can serve small portions that are easy to grab and enjoy. These variations make the dish even more versatile and delightful!

Storage Information

Refrigeration

To store leftovers, let the quiche cool first. Then, cut it into squares. Place the pieces in an airtight container. Make sure to cover the container well to keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days.

For reheating, I recommend using the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the quiche pieces on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This way, the cheese melts nicely again. You can also use a microwave, but it may get a bit soggy.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze the entire dish if you want to save time later. After baking, let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This helps avoid freezer burn. The dish can last for up to three months in the freezer.

If you prefer storing individual portions, cut the quiche into squares before freezing. Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Label them with the date, so you know when to use them.

Shelf Life

For the best taste and quality, eat the quiche within three days when stored in the fridge. If frozen, aim to use it within three months. After that, the taste and texture may change. Always check for any off smells or discoloration before cooking.

FAQs

Can I make Tortilla Quiche Breakfast Bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Just follow these steps:

- Make the filling and layer it in the baking dish.

- Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil.

- Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

- When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

- Then, bake as directed. This makes breakfast easy on busy mornings.

What can I substitute for corn tortillas?

If you don’t have corn tortillas, you can use:

- Flour tortillas for a softer texture.

- Whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option.

- Or, use gluten-free tortillas if needed.

These options work well and still give you a great base for your quiche.

How do I know when the quiche is done cooking?

You can tell the quiche is done by looking for a few signs:

- The edges should be firm and set.

- The center should not jiggle when you shake the dish.

- The cheese should be bubbly and slightly browned.

Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy this tasty breakfast bake!

In this post, we explored the essential and optional ingredients for a delicious tortilla quiche breakfast bake. We walked through step-by-step instructions for preparation, layering, and baking. I shared tips to perfect your dish and ways to adapt it for various preferences. Storage methods ensure your leftovers stay fresh. Remember, this recipe is flexible, so feel free to experiment with ingredients. Enjoy making a meal that not only satisfies but is also simple to customize! Your kitchen adventures await!