Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of warm, cheesy goodness wafting through your kitchen. That’s the magic of an Easy Southwest Breakfast Casserole—a hearty, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any morning. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, preparing breakfast for a crowd, or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole offers a delicious and easy solution.
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this satisfying breakfast dish, along with tips, variations, and answers to common questions.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Southwest Breakfast Casserole
Breakfast casseroles are a lifesaver for busy mornings, and this Southwest-inspired version takes it up a notch.
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep work and simple ingredients make this casserole a breeze to whip up.
- Packed with Flavor: With green chilies, black beans, and spices, it delivers bold, Southwest-inspired tastes.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From lazy Sundays to festive gatherings, this dish suits every occasion.
Ingredients for Easy Southwest Breakfast Casserole
Category | Ingredient | Quantity |
Base | Large eggs | 12 |
All-purpose flour | ½ cup | |
Baking powder | 1 tsp | |
Kosher salt | ½ tsp | |
Ground coriander | ½ tsp | |
Cheese | Monterey Jack/Cheddar blend | 6 oz (shredded) |
Cottage cheese (low fat) | 16 oz (small curd) | |
Butter (melted) | ¼ cup | |
Southwest Flavors | Diced green chilies | 2 (4 oz) cans |
Whole kernel corn | 1 cup (canned or frozen) | |
Black beans | 1 (15 oz) can, drained | |
Toppings (Optional) | Avocado slices, salsa, hot sauce | For serving |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Easy Southwest Breakfast Casserole
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 13” x 9” glass baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Beat the Eggs
- In a large mixing bowl, use a mixer to beat the 12 eggs until light and fluffy. This step creates a fluffy texture in the casserole.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
- Add the flour, baking powder, kosher salt, and ground coriander to the beaten eggs. Blend well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. Add Cheese and Dairy
- Mix in the shredded cheese, cottage cheese, and melted butter. These ingredients add creaminess and richness to the casserole.
5. Stir in the Southwest Flavors
- Fold in the diced green chilies, corn, and black beans. Distribute the ingredients evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
6. Pour into Baking Dish
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake to Perfection
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 55–60 minutes.
- It’s ready when the top is puffy and golden, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Add Toppings and Serve
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Top with avocado slices, salsa, and hot sauce for added flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Breakfast Casserole
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated cheese and high-quality eggs enhance the flavor.
- Customize the Spice Level: For more heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Prep Ahead: Mix the casserole ingredients the night before and bake in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
- Check for Doneness: Baking times may vary, so check the center with a knife to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages:
- Sides: Serve with crispy hash browns or fresh fruit salad.
- Beverages: Pair with orange juice, coffee, or a spicy Bloody Mary for a complete breakfast spread.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Per Serving (Approximate) |
Calories | 320 |
Protein | 18g |
Carbohydrates | 15g |
Fat | 22g |
Fiber | 3g |
Sodium | 620mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it in the morning for a fresh, hot breakfast.
2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Slice the cooled casserole into portions, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply omit the eggs and replace with a plant-based egg substitute. Ensure all other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
5. Can I add meat to this casserole?
Yes, cooked sausage, bacon, or diced ham are great additions for meat lovers. Stir them in with the other ingredients before baking.
6. What can I use instead of green chilies?
If you prefer a milder flavor, replace green chilies with diced bell peppers.
Final Thoughts
Easy Southwest Breakfast Casserole is a delicious way to start your day with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and Southwest flair make it a dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it fresh out of the oven or reheating leftovers, it’s sure to be a hit.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and whip up this satisfying casserole today. Don’t forget to share your favorite toppings or creative twists in the comments below. Enjoy!
PrintEasy Southwest Breakfast Casserole: A Flavorful Start to Your Day
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Start your day with bold flavors and cheesy goodness! This Easy Southwest Breakfast Casserole is a simple, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Packed with green chilies, black beans, and spices, it’s a flavorful way to energize your morning.
Ingredients
- 12 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 6 oz Monterey Jack/Cheddar blend (shredded)
- 16 oz cottage cheese (small curd, low-fat)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 (4 oz) cans diced green chilies
- 1 cup whole kernel corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, salsa, hot sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13” x 9” glass baking dish.
- Beat the Eggs: In a large bowl, beat the eggs until light and fluffy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Mix in the flour, baking powder, salt, and coriander until smooth.
- Add Cheese and Dairy: Stir in shredded cheese, cottage cheese, and melted butter until well combined.
- Incorporate Southwest Flavors: Fold in green chilies, corn, and black beans. Mix well.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the top is golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Add toppings as desired and serve.
Notes
- Customizable: Add diced jalapeños or sausage for extra spice and protein.
- Make Ahead: Prep the casserole the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave or oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southwest