Best Nachos Breakfast

If you’re looking to start your day with a hearty, flavorful, and protein-packed meal, this Best Nachos Breakfast is your go-to recipe. It’s the ultimate combination of crispy tortilla chips, cheesy scrambled eggs, beans, fresh veggies, and flavorful toppings. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this dish is a real crowd-pleaser for gatherings or a delicious treat for a lazy weekend morning.

The Inspiration Behind Nachos for Breakfast

Who says nachos are just for snack time or game days? Breakfast nachos are an exciting twist on the classic nacho dish that combines the richness of breakfast favorites like eggs and avocado with the savory goodness of tortilla chips and melted cheese. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients to suit your taste.

The key to great breakfast nachos is balancing fresh, wholesome ingredients with indulgent flavors. The crispiness of the chips, the creaminess of the avocado, the meltiness of the cheese, and the spice from salsa or jalapeños make this a dish worth waking up for. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings when you want something a little more exciting than your typical eggs and toast.

Ingredients:

• 8-10 crispy tortilla chips: Choose high-quality tortilla chips that are sturdy enough to hold up to the toppings. Thin or fragile chips will break under the weight of the ingredients.
• 4 large eggs: Eggs provide the base protein for this dish. They should be scrambled lightly so they remain fluffy.
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend work well here. Choose a cheese that melts easily for that gooey, cheesy texture.
• 1/4 cup black beans (rinsed and drained): Black beans add protein and fiber, making the dish even heartier.
• 1 small avocado (sliced): Avocado brings creaminess and healthy fats that complement the crunch of the tortilla chips.
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes bring a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion: Red onions add a bit of sharpness and crunch to balance out the richness of the eggs and cheese.
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro: Cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note that brightens up the dish.
• 1/4 cup sour cream: Sour cream gives a cool, tangy flavor that helps cut through the richness of the eggs and cheese.
• 1/4 cup salsa: Choose your favorite salsa—mild, medium, or hot—to add some spice and tang to the nachos.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Season your eggs as they cook to enhance the flavor of the dish.
• Optional toppings: Jalapeños, hot sauce, crumbled bacon, or chorizo for an added kick of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Scramble the eggs: In a medium skillet, scramble the eggs until they are just set. Be careful not to overcook them; you want them to remain soft and fluffy. Season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
2. Prepare the toppings: While the eggs are cooking, prepare your toppings. Slice the avocado, chop the cilantro, and dice the tomatoes and red onions. If you are using optional toppings like jalapeños or bacon, cook or prepare them now as well.
3. Assemble the nachos: Lay out the tortilla chips on a large oven-safe platter or baking sheet. Spread the scrambled eggs evenly over the chips, making sure each chip gets some of the egg mixture.
4. Add the cheese and beans: Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the eggs and tortilla chips. Next, add the black beans, distributing them evenly across the nachos.
5. Melt the cheese: Place the nachos in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to ensure the chips don’t burn.
6. Top with fresh ingredients: Once the cheese is melted, remove the nachos from the oven. Add the fresh toppings—tomatoes, onions, avocado slices, and cilantro. Drizzle sour cream and salsa over the top, or serve them on the side for dipping.

Cooking Tips:

• Choose the right chips: Not all tortilla chips are created equal. Look for thick, sturdy chips that won’t get soggy under the weight of the toppings. You can also try using baked tortilla chips for a slightly healthier option.
• Customize your nachos: The beauty of breakfast nachos is that they can be easily customized. If you prefer, you can use scrambled tofu instead of eggs for a vegan option or add crumbled sausage or chorizo for extra protein. Feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients.
• Serve immediately: Nachos are best enjoyed right after they’re made. This ensures that the chips remain crispy and the toppings are fresh. If you’re preparing this dish for a crowd, try serving it family-style so everyone can dig in right away.
• Make it a one-pan dish: For easy cleanup, assemble the nachos directly on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Once the cheese has melted, transfer the pan directly to the table and serve from there.

Nutritional Benefits

This Best Nachos Breakfast is not only delicious but also nutritious. Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients, while the avocado offers heart-healthy fats. The black beans are a good source of fiber and plant-based protein, and the fresh veggies add important vitamins and minerals.

If you’re looking for a healthier twist, try using baked tortilla chips and low-fat cheese or reduce the amount of cheese altogether. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutrient boost.

Variations

• Vegan Breakfast Nachos: Replace the scrambled eggs with scrambled tofu or a vegan egg substitute, and use dairy-free cheese. You can also substitute the sour cream with a vegan alternative like cashew cream.
• Loaded Meat Lovers Nachos: For a heartier option, add cooked bacon, sausage, or chorizo to your nachos. The salty, savory flavors of the meat pair perfectly with the cheesy eggs and crispy chips.
• Southwest Nachos: Add grilled corn, roasted bell peppers, and a sprinkle of cumin and chili powder to give your nachos a southwestern flair. Top with a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness.
• Spicy Nachos: If you like your food with a kick, top your nachos with pickled jalapeños, a drizzle of hot sauce, or a sprinkling of crushed red pepper flakes.

Serving Suggestions

While these nachos are filling on their own, you can serve them with additional sides to round out the meal. A fresh fruit salad or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice would complement the savory flavors of the dish. If you’re hosting a brunch, consider serving these nachos alongside breakfast staples like pancakes or waffles for a complete spread.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make breakfast nachos ahead of time?

While it’s best to enjoy nachos fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Scramble the eggs, chop the veggies, and prepare the toppings the night before. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the nachos and melt the cheese in the oven.

2. Can I use store-bought salsa?

Absolutely! Store-bought salsa works well, but if you have time, making your own fresh salsa will elevate the dish. Simply chop tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños, and mix with a squeeze of lime juice for a quick and flavorful homemade salsa.

3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Most tortilla chips are naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check the packaging to confirm. All other ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, so this dish is a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.