Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite way to start the day: the Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole! Picture this: layers of crispy tortilla chips, savory ground sausage, and gooey melted cheese, all drizzled with zesty salsa and topped with fresh green onions. It’s like a fiesta for your taste buds! I remember the first time I made it for a weekend brunch with family—everyone gathered around the table, plates piled high, and laughter filling the air. It was such a hit that we ended up making it a Sunday tradition. Trust me, once you’ve tried this dish, it’ll become your go-to for any gathering or even just a cozy breakfast at home. It’s hearty, comforting, and oh-so-delicious! You’ll be dreaming about it long after the plates are empty.

Ingredients List

1 lb ground sausage (cooked and crumbled)
8 oz tortilla chips (your favorite brand)
2 cups shredded cheese (any mix you prefer, like cheddar and Monterey Jack)
4 large eggs (beaten)
1 cup milk (whole or your choice)
1 cup salsa (medium or spicy, depending on your taste)
1/2 cup diced green onions (for that fresh crunch)
1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground, if possible)

How to Prepare Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Getting that heat going is essential for a perfectly baked casserole!
While the oven warms up, grab a skillet and cook the ground sausage over medium heat until it’s nice and browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up into crumbles as it cooks—nobody wants big chunks of sausage in their nacho casserole!
Now, let’s start layering! In a baking dish (I usually go for a 9×13 inch), spread half of the tortilla chips evenly across the bottom. Don’t worry if they break a little; it adds to the charm!
Next, sprinkle half of the cooked sausage over those chips. This creates that delicious savory base we all crave.
Then, it’s time for cheese! Sprinkle half of your shredded cheese over the sausage layer. Just imagine that melty goodness!
Repeat those layers: add the remaining tortilla chips, followed by the rest of the sausage, and finish with the remaining cheese on top. You’re building a nacho masterpiece here!
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salsa, salt, and pepper. Make sure it’s mixed well—this mixture will bind everything together!
Pour this egg mixture evenly over the layered casserole. Take your time with this step to ensure every chip gets some love!
Finally, top it off with those fresh diced green onions. They’ll add a lovely crunch and a pop of color!
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the cheese is bubbly and golden. Just try not to drool while you wait!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy mornings!
Perfect for feeding a crowd; everyone can dig in!
Versatile with customizable toppings—make it your own!
Packed with flavor and protein to keep you satisfied all morning.

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to elevate your dish:

Even Cooking: If you want an evenly baked casserole, make sure to spread your sausage and cheese layers evenly. This helps each bite have that perfect balance of flavors!
Customize It: Feel free to swap out the sausage for bacon or even black beans if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. You can also mix in some diced bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick!
Make Ahead: This casserole is a great make-ahead dish! You can assemble it the night before, cover it tightly with foil, and pop it in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Leftover Storage: If you have any leftovers (which is rare at my house!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick breakfast the next day!
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheese blends! Try pepper jack for a spicy twist, or go with a smoky cheese for added depth of flavor.

With these tips, you’ll have a Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole that’s not just delicious, but also perfectly suited to your taste. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk about the numbers! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving of the Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole (which is about 1/6 of the entire casserole):

Calories: 350
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 180mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 20g

Keep in mind these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. So, while you’re enjoying this hearty and delicious dish, you can feel good about the protein boost and the flavors that come with it! Happy eating!

FAQ Section

Here are some of the most common questions I get about the Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole, along with my answers. I want to make sure you have all the info you need to whip up this delicious dish!

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble it the night before, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it. Just remember to bake it a little longer if it’s cold from the fridge. It’s a fantastic time-saver for busy mornings!

What toppings can I add?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can add jalapeños for a spicy kick, diced tomatoes, or even black olives for a nice briny touch. If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top just before serving takes it to the next level!

Is there a way to make it vegetarian?
For sure! Just swap out the ground sausage for black beans, diced bell peppers, or even some sautéed mushrooms. You can still enjoy all that cheesy goodness without the meat. It’s super versatile, so feel free to get creative!

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can! Just let the casserole cool completely, then wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave. It’s like having breakfast ready to go!

How do I prevent it from getting soggy?
To avoid a soggy casserole, try to use sturdy tortilla chips and layer them properly. Also, make sure your sausage is well-cooked and drained of excess grease. If you’re worried, you can bake the tortilla chips for a few minutes before layering them to give them a little extra crunch!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this incredible Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole, let’s talk about the perfect pairings to make your meal even more delightful! I’ve found that the right sides and drinks can really elevate your breakfast experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus adds a refreshing contrast to the savory casserole. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vitamins!
Smoothies: Blend up a quick smoothie with spinach, banana, and yogurt for a creamy, nutritious drink that complements the hearty casserole. It’s a fantastic way to start the day!
Breakfast Potatoes: Crispy roasted or seasoned breakfast potatoes are a classic side! They add that comforting touch and pair beautifully with the nacho flavors.
Mexican-style Coffee: If you’re in the mood for something warm, a cup of rich Mexican coffee with a sprinkle of cinnamon can be the perfect beverage to sip alongside your casserole.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer some yogurt with granola and fruit for a light but filling side. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also adds a nice texture contrast to your meal.

With these suggestions, you’ll have a breakfast spread that’s not just delicious but also visually stunning and satisfying. Enjoy your feast, and don’t forget to share the love with family and friends—it’s too good to keep to yourself!

Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole: 5 Flavorful Secrets

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and delicious breakfast casserole loaded with nacho flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground sausage
8 oz tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheese
4 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 cup salsa
1/2 cup diced green onions
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Cook the ground sausage in a skillet until browned.
In a baking dish, layer half of the tortilla chips.
Add half of the cooked sausage over the chips.
Sprinkle half of the cheese over the sausage.
Repeat the layers with the remaining chips, sausage, and cheese.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salsa, salt, and pepper.
Pour the egg mixture over the layered casserole.
Top with diced green onions.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until set.

Notes

Customize with your favorite toppings.
Can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
Calories: 350
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: Loaded Breakfast Nacho Casserole

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