Stacked Tortilla Breakfast Casserole: A Flavor-Packed Morning Delight

Imagine the start of a perfect morning: the smell of sizzling bacon, the melted cheese oozing over layers of tortillas, and the hearty satisfaction of eggs, sausage, and ham baked to golden perfection. Stacked tortilla breakfast casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and comfort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal-prepping for busy mornings, or hosting a brunch, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

This casserole combines all your breakfast favorites—eggs, meat, cheese, and tortillas—stacked together to create a visually stunning and mouthwatering dish. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about creating this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen!

What Is Stacked Tortilla Breakfast Casserole?

Stacked tortilla breakfast casserole is a layered breakfast bake made with soft tortillas, eggs, cheese, and a variety of breakfast meats like bacon, sausage, and ham. It’s inspired by Mexican flavors, combining the hearty texture of tortillas with rich, cheesy layers. This one-pan dish is easy to assemble and bakes into a golden, bubbling casserole that’s perfect for slicing and serving.

Unlike traditional breakfast casseroles that mix ingredients together, this version uses tortillas to create defined layers, making each bite a balanced combination of cheesy, meaty, and savory goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

• Easy to Assemble: Simple layering makes this recipe quick to put together.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Packed with bold flavors, it’s perfect for family breakfasts or holiday brunches.
• Customizable: Swap meats, cheeses, or add veggies to make it your own.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Make it ahead, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh in the morning.
• Filling and Hearty: Loaded with protein and cheese, it keeps you full for hours.

Ingredients for Stacked Tortilla Breakfast Casserole

Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering breakfast casserole:

Ingredient	Purpose	Substitution Options
Bacon	Adds smoky, crispy flavor	Use turkey bacon or plant-based alternatives
Pork Sausage	Provides savory richness	Substitute with chicken sausage or chorizo
Diced Ham	Adds a salty, meaty element	Use cubed turkey or omit for a lighter dish
Tortillas	Forms the base of the casserole layers	Use corn tortillas or gluten-free options
Eggs	Binds the layers together and provides protein	No substitutes for this key ingredient
Milk	Creates the custard for soaking the tortillas	Use almond, oat, or soy milk for dairy-free
Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder	Enhances the overall flavor	Adjust seasonings to taste
Hot Sauce	Adds a subtle kick	Omit for a milder casserole
Cheddar Cheese	Adds creamy, sharp flavor	Substitute with Colby Jack or Pepper Jack
Mozzarella Cheese	Creates a melty, gooey texture	Use Monterrey Jack or a dairy-free cheese alternative

How to Make Stacked Tortilla Breakfast Casserole

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the ultimate breakfast casserole:

Step 1: Cook the Meats

1. Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and crumble the bacon into small pieces.
2. In the same skillet, cook the pork sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and set it aside.
3. Add the diced ham to the skillet and cook briefly to warm it up.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 8 large eggs, 1½ cups of milk, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of pepper, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of hot sauce. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cut 10 tortillas in half and arrange them in the bottom of the dish to create the first layer.
3. Spread a third of the crumbled bacon, cooked sausage, and diced ham evenly over the tortillas.
4. Sprinkle a generous handful of cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the meat layer.
5. Repeat the layering process—tortillas, meat, cheese—until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.

Step 4: Pour the Egg Mixture

1. Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the entire casserole. Use a spatula to press down the layers gently, ensuring the liquid soaks into the tortillas.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are fully set.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve warm with optional toppings like sour cream, salsa, or fresh cilantro.

Tips for the Best Breakfast Casserole

1. Use Sturdy Tortillas: Flour tortillas hold up best during baking, but corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option.
2. Don’t Overfill: Keep the layers balanced to ensure even cooking.
3. Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest before slicing helps it hold its shape.
4. Customize the Meat: Mix and match your favorite breakfast meats for added variety.
5. Add Veggies: Throw in bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.

Flavor Variations and Additions

• Vegetarian: Omit the meats and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.
• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños, extra hot sauce, or use spicy sausage.
• Tex-Mex Twist: Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes for a southwestern flavor.
• Cheese Lovers: Use a combination of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Pepper Jack for extra cheesiness.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Toppings: Serve with sliced avocado, salsa, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
• As Part of a Brunch Spread: Pair with fruit salad, coffee, and muffins for a complete meal.
• Side of Hash Browns: Add crispy hash browns or roasted potatoes for an extra hearty breakfast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Grease: Always grease your dish to prevent sticking.
2. Using Too Much Egg Mixture: This can result in a soggy casserole. Stick to the recipe’s measurements.
3. Overbaking: Watch the casserole closely in the last 10 minutes to prevent the top from drying out.
4. Not Letting It Rest: Resting the casserole helps the layers set, making it easier to slice.

FAQs About Stacked Tortilla Breakfast Casserole

Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning.

Q2: Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap individual portions in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

Q3: Can I use corn tortillas?
Yes, corn tortillas work well, especially if you need a gluten-free option.

Q4: What can I substitute for pork sausage?
You can use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or a plant-based alternative.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q6: Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, or onions are great additions to this casserole.

Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Breakfast Comfort Food

Stacked tortilla breakfast casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a warm, hearty meal that brings people together. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, meal-prepping for the week, or making a cozy weekend breakfast, this dish is sure to be a hit.

So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to enjoy a breakfast casserole that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. Your mornings just got a whole lot better!

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