Looking for a tasty and easy meal that's perfect for any time of day? Try making 1 cup of chilaquiles, a delicious tortilla casserole with salsa and cheese. With only 443 calories per serving, it's a great way to satisfy your cravings without consuming too many calories.

This Mexican classic is a favorite for good reason. It's a hearty and delicious dish that will fill you up without weighing you down. But even better, chilaquiles is incredibly easy to make, and you can customize it to your liking.

In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for making the perfect chilaquiles casserole, including the best ingredients to use, how to make it from scratch, and even some ways to make it healthier. Let's get started!

What are chilaquiles?

Chilaquiles is a traditional Mexican dish that's made with tortilla chips, salsa, and cheese. Usually served for breakfast or brunch, it's a great way to start your day with a satisfying and delicious meal. The dish is typically made by frying tortilla chips until they're crispy, then tossing them with a spicy tomato-based sauce and shredded cheese. The dish can be served with a variety of toppings, such as avocado, sour cream, or cilantro. Overall, chilaquiles is a flavorful and satisfying dish that's perfect for any time of day. And with so many ways to customize it, you'll never get tired of this classic Mexican favorite.

The ingredients you need to make a chilaquiles casserole

To make a traditional chilaquiles casserole, you'll need a few basic ingredients. Here's a rundown of what you'll need:

• Tortilla chips
• Salsa
• Shredded cheese
• Eggs (for a breakfast casserole)
• Any other toppings you like, such as chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or sour cream.

Of course, you can always get creative and add other ingredients to your casserole. Some popular additions include black beans, corn, and shredded chicken or beef. Ultimately, the sky's the limit when it comes to making your chilaquiles casserole your own.

How to make chilaquiles from scratch

If you want to make your chilaquiles casserole entirely from scratch, it's a bit more involved, but still relatively easy. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:

1. Fry tortilla chips in hot oil until crispy.
2. Remove the chips from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain.
3. In a separate pan, sauté some diced onion and garlic. Add salsa and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add the tortilla chips to the salsa mixture and toss to coat.
5. Transfer the chips and salsa to a baking dish and sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
6. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as cilantro, jalapenos, or avocado.

As with any recipe, you can always tweak this basic recipe to suit your preferences. For example, you might want to try adding some peppers or other veggies to the salsa mixture, or using a different type of cheese.

The nutritional facts of a chilaquiles tortilla casserole with salsa and cheese

While chilaquiles is a delicious and satisfying meal, it's important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Here's a breakdown of the basic nutritional facts for a chilaquiles tortilla casserole with salsa and cheese:

• calories: 443
• Protein: 19 grams
• Carbohydrates: 38 grams
• Fat: 25 grams
• Sugar: 6 grams
• Sodium: 810 milligrams

Of course, these nutritional facts can vary depending on how you make your chilaquiles casserole. For example, if you add a lot of extra cheese, you might end up with a higher calorie count. Similarly, if you use a spicier salsa, you might end up with a higher sodium content.

Ways to make chilaquiles healthier

If you're concerned about the nutritional content of your chilaquiles casserole, there are plenty of ways to make it healthier. Here are a few key tips:

• Use baked tortilla chips instead of fried to cut down on fat and calories.
• Use a lighter cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, instead of traditional shredded cheese.
• Use a protein-rich salsa made with beans or lentils instead of a high-sugar salsa.
• Add lots of veggies, such as diced peppers or spinach, to boost the nutrient content of your casserole.

Overall, small changes can make a big difference when it comes to the healthiness of your chilaquiles casserole. Experiment to find what works for you and your taste buds.

Baking vs frying your tortilla chips for chilaquiles

When it comes to making chilaquiles, there are two main ways to prepare your tortilla chips: frying and baking. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of each method:

• Frying: This method gives the tortilla chips a crispy, crunchy texture and a rich, savory flavor. However, it also adds a lot of fat and calories to the dish.
• Baking: This method is a healthier option that still results in a crispy, delicious texture. You can also season your chips with spices and herbs to add extra flavor without adding extra fat.

Overall, either method can work well, depending on your preference. If you want to stick to a healthier diet, baking your chips is probably the way to go. However, if you're looking for a decadent, indulgent treat, frying your chips is a great option.

Different types of cheese to use for chilaquiles

While traditional chilaquiles casserole is made with shredded cheese, there are actually many different types of cheese that can work well in this dish. Here are a few options to consider:

• Cheddar: This classic cheese has a sharp, tangy flavor that pairs well with the spicy salsa and crunchy tortilla chips.
• Monterey Jack: This is a milder cheese that has a creamy texture and mild flavor. It's a great option if you want a more understated cheese flavor in your casserole.
• Cotija: This crumbly cheese is a classic in Mexican cuisine. It has a salty, tangy flavor that adds a lot of depth to the dish.

Ultimately, the type of cheese you choose will depend on your personal taste preferences. Don't be afraid to experiment to find the perfect cheese for your chilaquiles casserole!

How to serve chilaquiles

One of the great things about chilaquiles casserole is that it's incredibly versatile. You can serve it a hundred different ways, depending on your mood and the occasion. Here are a few options to consider:

• Serve as a side dish with grilled meat or fish.
• Top with a fried egg and serve as a hearty breakfast or brunch.
• Make it the main event and load it up with hearty toppings like avocado, beans, and sour cream.

Overall, chilaquiles is such a customizable dish that you can make it work for just about any meal or occasion.

Chilaquiles as a breakfast dish

While chilaquiles can be enjoyed any time of day, it's particularly popular as a breakfast dish. Here are a few ways to make a chilaquiles breakfast that really hits the spot:

• Add a fried egg on top of your casserole for a rich, savory breakfast option.
• Serve your chilaquiles with bacon or sausage for a hearty, protein-packed breakfast.
• Add some fresh fruit, such as sliced avocado or tomatoes, to lighten up your meal.

Overall, chilaquiles is a delicious and satisfying meal that's a great way to start your day off on the right foot!

Chilaquiles as a dinner dish

While breakfast may be the most common time to eat chilaquiles, it's also a great option for dinner. Here are a few ways to make a chilaquiles dinner that really hits the spot:

• Pair your casserole with a side salad for a lighter dinner option.
• Add some shredded chicken or beef to your casserole to make it a heartier meal.
• Experiment with different types of salsa to add extra flavor and kick to your dinner.

With so many ways to customize chilaquiles to your liking, it's no wonder that this classic Mexican dish is a favorite for both breakfast and dinner.