There’s nothing quite like waking up to the bold and vibrant flavors of a Mexican breakfast casserole. Imagine tender shredded sweet potatoes, perfectly seasoned ground turkey, colorful bell peppers, and creamy eggs coming together in one hearty and satisfying dish. Top it off with a dollop of guacamole, and you have a breakfast that’s not just delicious, but also packed with nutrients to fuel your day.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, prepping meals for the week, or treating yourself to a flavorful breakfast, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s easy to make, bursting with Mexican-inspired flavors, and customizable to suit your preferences.
Let’s explore how to make this incredible casserole, why you’ll love it, and tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
What Is a Mexican Breakfast Casserole?
A Mexican breakfast casserole is a baked dish that combines the rich and zesty flavors of Mexican cuisine with classic breakfast ingredients. This recipe starts with a base of shredded sweet potatoes and layers of ground turkey, peppers, onions, and spices. It’s topped with creamy eggs and baked to golden perfection.
The result is a dish that’s equal parts savory and satisfying, with a hint of heat from the spices and a creamy, indulgent finish from the eggs and guacamole. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy a hearty breakfast or brunch.
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Breakfast Casserole
- Packed with Flavor: A delicious combination of spices and fresh vegetables makes every bite pop.
- Nutrient-Dense: Sweet potatoes, veggies, and protein-packed turkey make it a wholesome meal.
- Customizable: Add or swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Make it ahead of time for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for feeding a group at brunch or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients for Mexican Breakfast Casserole
Ingredient | Quantity |
Olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
Sweet potato (shredded) | 1 pound |
Ground turkey | 1 pound |
Yellow onion (chopped) | 1 |
Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
Red bell pepper (diced) | 1 |
Green bell pepper (diced) | 1 |
Ground cumin | ½ teaspoon |
Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
Cayenne pepper | 1 teaspoon |
Eggs | 8 |
Salt | To taste |
Black pepper | To taste |
Guacamole | For garnish |
How to Make Mexican Breakfast Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shredded sweet potatoes and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Spread the cooked sweet potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
Step 3: Brown the Turkey
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until fully browned (about 7–10 minutes).
- Season with ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the turkey evenly in the spices.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
- Push the cooked turkey to one side of the skillet and add the final tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
- Mix the vegetables and turkey together, then spoon the mixture evenly over the sweet potato layer in the casserole dish.
Step 5: Add the Eggs
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pour the whisked eggs evenly over the layers of sweet potatoes, turkey, and vegetables in the casserole dish.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
- Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the casserole with dollops of guacamole and any additional toppings you like, such as salsa, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.
- Slice into squares and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Mexican Breakfast Casserole
- Shred the Sweet Potatoes Evenly: Use a box grater or food processor for consistent shredding, which ensures even cooking.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Add more or less cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
- Don’t Overcook the Eggs: Keep an eye on the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent dry eggs.
- Make It Creamier: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese over the top before baking for a gooey finish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, peppers, and sweet potatoes make a big difference in flavor.
Flavor Variations and Additions
- Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for extra richness.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground turkey with black beans or crumbled tofu.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in diced zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for more nutrients.
- Taco-Style: Serve with tortilla chips, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream for a fun twist.
- Herb Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or green onions over the top for added flavor and color.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 250 |
Protein | 20g |
Fat | 12g |
Carbohydrates | 18g |
Fiber | 4g |
Sugar | 5g |
Serving Suggestions
- Complete Breakfast: Serve with a side of fresh fruit or avocado toast for a balanced meal.
- Brunch Spread: Pair with mimosas, coffee, or a simple green salad.
- Leftover Idea: Wrap slices of the casserole in tortillas for breakfast burritos on the go.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Grease: Make sure to grease your casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Cook the turkey and veggies in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
- Overbaking: Check the casserole early to prevent dry eggs.
- Not Tasting the Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning of the turkey and veggies before assembling the casserole.
- Undercooking Sweet Potatoes: Cook the sweet potatoes until tender before layering to avoid crunchy bits.
FAQs About Mexican Breakfast Casserole
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning.
Q2: Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap individual slices in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
Q3: Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Yes, ground beef or chicken works as a substitute for turkey.
Q4: How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat slices in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Q5: Can I add cheese to this casserole?
Definitely! Shredded cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella would work beautifully.
Q6: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Simply skip any cheese additions and use a plant-based guacamole.
Final Thoughts: A Flavor-Packed Breakfast for Every Occasion
This Mexican breakfast casserole is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of bold flavors, vibrant colors, and hearty ingredients. Whether you’re serving it to guests, meal-prepping for busy mornings, or enjoying a lazy weekend breakfast, this casserole is a guaranteed hit.
So grab your sweet potatoes, crack those eggs, and let the irresistible aroma of this casserole fill your kitchen. Your mornings are about to get a whole lot tastier!
Print
Mexican Breakfast Casserole (So Yummy!)
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Start your day with the vibrant flavors of a Mexican breakfast casserole! Packed with tender shredded sweet potatoes, savory ground turkey, fresh veggies, and fluffy eggs, this one-dish wonder is a meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your nutritional needs. Garnished with creamy guacamole, this casserole is perfect for brunch, busy weekday mornings, or any occasion when you need a hearty breakfast to fuel your day.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound sweet potato, shredded
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 8 large eggs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Guacamole, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray. - Cook the Sweet Potatoes
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shredded sweet potatoes and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Spread the cooked sweet potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
- Brown the Ground Turkey
- In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground turkey and cook for 7–10 minutes, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
- Season with cumin, oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the turkey with spices.
- Sauté the Vegetables
- Push the cooked turkey to one side of the skillet and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Mix the vegetables and turkey together. Spoon this mixture evenly over the sweet potato layer in the casserole dish.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pour the whisked eggs evenly over the sweet potatoes, turkey, and vegetable mixture in the casserole dish.
- Bake the Casserole
- Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Check doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center—it should come out clean.
- Cool and Garnish
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with dollops of guacamole or any additional toppings like salsa, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.
- Serve and Enjoy
Slice into squares and serve warm. Pair with your favorite breakfast sides or enjoy it as-is!
Notes
- Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to reduce the cayenne pepper for a milder dish or add more for extra heat.
- Cheesy Option: Add shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese to the egg mixture for added richness.
- Make It Vegetarian: Swap the ground turkey for black beans or plant-based crumbles.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions until heated through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American