The first chill of autumn always has me reaching for hearty, comforting meals, and this Spicy Chorizo & Potato Breakfast Casserole is a standout. Picture a bubbling dish filled with a delightful mingling of crispy potatoes, savory chorizo, and vibrant peppers, all topped with gooey cheese and fresh cilantro. It’s the kind of breakfast that transforms any morning into a celebration, whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or a bustling holiday gathering.
I discovered this gem quite by accident during a friend’s cookout, where the flavors captivated my taste buds and left me craving more. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this casserole fills your kitchen with warmth and a tantalizing aroma that invites everyone to the table. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out the chorizo for soyrizo or mix in your favorite seasonal vegetables, making it perfect for any palate. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll be saying goodbye to boring breakfasts and hello to flavor-packed mornings!
Why Love This Chorizo & Potato Egg Casserole?
Ease of Preparation: With just a few simple steps, this casserole comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute brunch plans.
Bold Flavors: The spicy chorizo combined with sautéed peppers and melted cheese creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds delighted.
Versatile Options: Whether you’re catering to a vegetarian crowd or simply want to switch things up, you can easily swap ingredients like chorizo for soyrizo or add seasonal veggies.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this dish is sure to impress friends and family, turning any meal into a festive occasion.
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep this casserole the night before, allowing for a stress-free morning while still enjoying a warm, hearty breakfast!
Elevate your brunch game with this Chorizo & Potato Egg Casserole that guarantees both comfort and joy at your table!
Chorizo & Potato Egg Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
• Chorizo – Adds a spicy and savory flavor; substitute with soyrizo for a vegetarian option.
• Red Bell Pepper – Provides sweetness and color; feel free to use green bell peppers or jalapeños for a variation.
• Poblano Pepper – Adds mild spice and depth; can be replaced with jalapeño for more heat or omitted for less spice.
• White Onion – Enhances flavor with savory notes; yellow onion works well as a substitute if preferred.
• Diced Green Chiles (1 can) – Contributes mild heat; use canned or fresh depending on availability for your Chorizo & Potato Egg Casserole.
• Eggs (10) – A primary binder and protein source for the casserole.
• Milk (1¼ cups) – Adds creaminess; switch to any dairy or non-dairy milk to suit dietary preferences.
• Shredded Cheese (1-1½ cups) – Provides richness and flavor; opt for non-dairy cheese if you’re going dairy-free.
• Frozen Diced Potatoes (2½ cups) – Serves as the base bulk; frozen hashbrowns or freshly diced potatoes also work great.
• Salt (½ tsp) & Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Essential seasonings to enhance overall flavor; adjust to taste preferences.
• Chopped Cilantro – An optional garnish for added freshness.
• Avocado & Chunky Salsa – Suggested toppings that bring in a refreshing touch when serving.
Get ready to savor a delicious blend of flavors with this delightful casserole!
How to Make Chorizo & Potato Egg Casserole
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Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 glass dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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Cook the chorizo: Heat a nonstick pan over medium-high heat and add the chorizo, cooking it for 5-7 minutes until there’s no liquid remaining. Once done, set it aside on a paper towel to absorb excess grease.
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Sauté the veggies: In the same pan, add the red bell pepper, poblano pepper, and onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until just tender, then remove from heat and set aside.
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Whisk the egg mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until light and fluffy. Stir in the diced green chiles for a flavorful kick.
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Layer the casserole: In your prepared baking dish, layer the frozen diced potatoes, followed by the cooked chorizo, sautéed veggies, and half of the shredded cheese. Pour the egg mixture over this layer and finally sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
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Bake the casserole: Place in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the egg is fully set and the cheese is melted and golden. Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve it with avocado and chunky salsa for a delightful touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chorizo & Potato Egg Casserole
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Cook Thoroughly: Make sure the chorizo is well-cooked to enhance flavors and reduce moisture, ensuring a perfect texture in your casserole.
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Layer Wisely: When layering ingredients, start with frozen potatoes to achieve a delightful combination of creamy egg and crispy toppings in your Chorizo & Potato Egg Casserole.
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Cool Before Slicing: Allow the casserole to cool slightly after baking to set properly; this helps achieve cleaner slices and a more appealing presentation.
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Chunky Chorizo: Use a spatula to break the chorizo into larger chunks for a delightful texture contrast. Too fine, and they’ll disappear in the mix!
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Spicy Variations: For an extra kick, consider incorporating jalapeños or hot salsa into the mix, raising flavor levels in your egg casserole.
Make Ahead Options
This Chorizo & Potato Egg Casserole is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy your mornings without the rush! You can easily assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply layer the frozen diced potatoes, cooked chorizo, sautéed veggies, and cheese in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate. For the egg mixture, whisk the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper, and store it in a separate airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, pour the egg mixture over the layers and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake as directed and enjoy a delightful breakfast that’s just as delicious as if made fresh that morning!
Storage Tips for Chorizo & Potato Egg Casserole
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Room Temperature: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. It can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before refrigerating.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or in the microwave for a quick option.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: To maintain the casserole’s texture, reheat in the oven. Cover with foil to prevent drying out and bake until warmed through, about 25-30 minutes.
What to Serve with Chorizo & Potato Egg Casserole?
Elevate your brunch experience with delightful pairings that complement the robust flavors of this casserole.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy casserole, brightening every bite.
- Crispy Hash Browns: The extra crunch of golden hash browns harmonizes with the casserole’s soft texture, perfect for potato lovers.
- Tangy Green Salad: A simple dressed salad brings vibrant greens and acidity that balances the richness of the dish.
- Savory Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer a delicious earthiness, enhancing the overall meal with extra flavor.
- Zesty Avocado Toast: Creamy, garlicky avocado spread on toasted bread complements the casserole’s spice and provides a satisfying crunch.
- Classic Mimosa: Bright and bubbly, a mimosa adds a festive touch to the table, making any brunch gathering feel extra special.
- Spicy Salsa: A chunky salsa not only brings freshness but also enhances the spicy notes of the casserole when served alongside.
- Mexican Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a rich, spiced drink that pairs beautifully with the full flavors of your morning meal.
- Fruity Smoothie: A light, fruity smoothie offers a creamy texture and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the casserole.
- Mexican Rice: A flavorful side of seasoned rice rounds out the meal, ensuring every bite feels comforting and fulfilling.
Chorizo & Potato Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these fun substitutions!
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Vegetarian Swap: Replace chorizo with soyrizo or mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free option. You still get that robust flavor without the meat.
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Spicy Cheese: Use pepper jack cheese instead of traditional cheese for an extra kick that enhances the boldness of every bite. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Seasonal Veggies: Substitute fresh spinach or zucchini in place of peppers for a colorful, nutrient-rich twist. This allows you to enjoy what’s in season!
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Sweet Potatoes: Try swapping the diced potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the spices.
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Smoky Additions: Incorporate a bit of smoked paprika into the egg mixture for a delightful smoky flavor that intensifies the dish’s depth. Each bite will be infused with warmth!
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Extra Creaminess: For a richer texture, replace milk with heavy cream or a creamy non-dairy alternative, providing an indulgent touch that melts in your mouth.
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Toppings Galore: Try adding jalapeños, hot salsa, or a drizzle of chipotle sauce on top before serving to elevate heat and flavor. It’s all about mastering that perfect balance!
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Nut-Free Option: If you want to keep it nut-free while still adding some crunch, sprinkle sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a garnish, adding an intriguing texture contrast.
Let your creativity flourish in the kitchen with this adaptable casserole!
Chorizo & Potato Egg Casserole Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe chorizo for my casserole?
Absolutely! When picking chorizo, look for a bright red color and a firm texture. Avoid any links with dark spots or excessive grease. Fresh chorizo should have an aromatic smell and feel slightly moist, indicating it’s ready for cooking.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of the casserole?
Very! Once cooled, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain freshness and flavor. For optimal reheating, you can pop it in the microwave for a quick meal or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes for a better texture.
Can I freeze the Chorizo & Potato Egg Casserole?
Definitely! To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then slice into portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above!
What should I do if my casserole isn’t cooking evenly?
If you notice uneven cooking, ensure you’ve mixed the ingredients thoroughly so that the egg mixture reaches all the layers. Sometimes, uneven oven heat can be to blame, so rotating the casserole halfway through baking can help. If the top is browning too quickly, tent with foil to prevent burning while the insides cook through.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely, it’s wise to consider allergies! This casserole can be made gluten-free and dairy-free. Just choose gluten-free tortillas, non-dairy milk, and cheese. If serving pets, make sure they avoid onions and chorizo, as these ingredients can be harmful to them.
Chorizo & Potato Egg Casserole for Easy Brunch Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 glass dish with cooking spray.
- Heat a nonstick pan over medium-high heat, add the chorizo, and cook for 5-7 minutes until there’s no liquid remaining. Set aside on a paper towel.
- In the same pan, sauté the red bell pepper, poblano pepper, and onion for 3-4 minutes until just tender, then remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until light and fluffy. Stir in the diced green chiles.
- Layer frozen diced potatoes in the baking dish, followed by chorizo, veggies, and half of the shredded cheese. Pour the egg mixture and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the egg is fully set and cheese is melted and golden. Cool slightly before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with avocado and chunky salsa.
