Breakfast Nachos Recipe

Looking for a way to elevate your breakfast game? Meet the Breakfast Nachos—a delightful fusion of savory steak and eggs with the irresistible crunch of classic nachos. This recipe is perfect for those mornings when you want something hearty, flavorful, and just a little bit indulgent. Inspired by the beloved Tex-Mex staple, these nachos are layered with juicy slices of seared steak, fluffy scrambled eggs, black beans, and melty cheese, all topped off with a zesty chimichurri sauce that adds a fresh, herby kick. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, need a weekend treat, or simply want to start your day with a burst of flavor, these Breakfast Nachos are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your guests with this deliciously unique morning meal!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• For the Chimichurri Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
• For the Steak:
  • 1 (8-ounce) flat iron steak
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• For the Eggs:
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• For the Nachos:
  • 8 ounces tortilla chips
  • 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños
  • Sour cream, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce:
   • In a small food processor, combine cilantro, parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, crushed red pepper, and salt. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until fully incorporated. Set aside the chimichurri for later.
2. Cook the Steak:
   • Season the steak evenly with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and cumin if using. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.
   • Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, swirling to coat the surface. Cook the steak undisturbed for about 3 minutes per side, or until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 120°F (49°C) for rare. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes.
3. Cook the Eggs:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper until fully blended.
   • Heat the cast-iron skillet over medium heat again. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and pour in the eggs. Cook, stirring occasionally, until just set, about 2 minutes. Transfer the eggs to a bowl and cover to keep warm.
4. Assemble the Nachos:
   • Preheat your oven’s broiler and place a rack about 12 inches from the heat source. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.
   • Arrange half of the tortilla chips in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Thinly slice the steak against the grain and cut into 3/4-inch pieces.
   • Sprinkle the tortilla chips evenly with half of the steak, half of the black beans, half of the eggs, and half of the cheese. Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients.
5. Broil and Serve:
   • Broil the nachos for about 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, avocado, and pickled jalapeños.
   • Drizzle the chimichurri sauce over the nachos and serve with sour cream on the side.

Notes:

• Chimichurri Sauce: This fresh, herby sauce adds a vibrant flavor to the nachos, balancing the richness of the steak and cheese.
• Customization: Feel free to customize the nachos with additional toppings like sliced olives, fresh jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime juice.
• Steak Substitution: If flat iron steak isn’t available, you can use flank steak or even leftover steak from a previous meal.

Serving Suggestions:

These breakfast nachos are perfect for a weekend brunch, a special occasion, or even as a fun twist on dinner. Pair them with a fresh fruit salad or a mimosa for a complete meal.

Recipe Background and Inspiration:

The idea behind breakfast nachos is to take the beloved concept of traditional nachos and give it a morning makeover. This recipe draws inspiration from classic steak and eggs, a popular breakfast dish, but adds a playful twist by incorporating elements of a Tex-Mex favorite. The crispy tortilla chips serve as the perfect vehicle for the rich flavors of the steak, eggs, and cheese, while the chimichurri sauce introduces a zesty contrast that elevates the entire dish.

Nutritional Information:

This recipe provides a balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, making it a hearty option to kickstart your day. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 4 servings):

• Calories: ~550-600 kcal
• Protein: ~30-35g
• Fat: ~35-40g
• Carbohydrates: ~30-35g
• Fiber: ~5g
• Sodium: ~800-900mg

Why Breakfast Nachos Work:

• Versatility: Breakfast nachos are incredibly versatile, allowing you to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. The core components—tortilla chips, protein, eggs, and cheese—can be adapted to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs.
• Balance of Flavors and Textures: The combination of crispy tortilla chips with the richness of steak, the creaminess of eggs, and the fresh bite of chimichurri creates a well-rounded dish. The balance between the savory and fresh elements ensures that each bite is satisfying without being overwhelming.
• Fun and Interactive: Nachos, by nature, are a fun and interactive dish. Serving them for breakfast adds a playful element to the meal, making it a great option for family breakfasts, where everyone can dig in and enjoy together. It’s also a conversation starter—who wouldn’t be intrigued by the idea of nachos for breakfast?

Customization Ideas:

• Spice Level: Adjust the heat to your liking by adding more or fewer jalapeños, or by experimenting with different hot sauces. You can also include a variety of salsas, from mild to extra spicy, to cater to different preferences.
• Healthier Swaps: For a lighter version, you could use baked tortilla chips, leaner cuts of meat, or even substitute the cheese with a lower-fat alternative. Additionally, swapping out sour cream for Greek yogurt not only reduces calories but also adds a tangy flavor boost.
• Vegetarian and Vegan Options: This recipe can easily be adapted to vegetarian or vegan diets. Replace the steak with a hearty vegetable like roasted sweet potatoes or sautéed mushrooms. For a vegan version, use plant-based cheese and tofu scramble in place of the eggs.

Cultural Fusion:

• A Cross-Cultural Experience: Breakfast nachos are a great example of cultural fusion in cuisine. They blend the traditional elements of a hearty American breakfast with Mexican and South American influences. This dish can be seen as a reflection of the diverse culinary landscape that celebrates the merging of flavors and techniques from different parts of the world.
• Exploring Regional Variations: Consider exploring regional variations by incorporating ingredients specific to certain areas. For instance, adding chorizo or using a different style of beans (like refried beans) could give the dish a distinctly Mexican flair, while using chimichurri as a sauce brings in an Argentine touch.

Perfect for Special Occasions:

• Brunch Parties: These nachos are a standout dish for brunch parties, offering something different from the usual pancakes and omelets. They’re not only delicious but also visually appealing, with vibrant colors from the chimichurri, tomatoes, and avocado.
• Holiday Breakfasts: Think of serving breakfast nachos as part of a festive holiday breakfast spread. They bring a sense of indulgence and creativity that’s perfect for special occasions like Christmas morning or Easter brunch.

Cooking Tips and Tricks:

• Make-Ahead Components: To save time in the morning, you can prepare several components of the recipe ahead of time. The chimichurri sauce can be made the night before and stored in the refrigerator. The steak can also be cooked in advance and quickly reheated before assembling the nachos.
• Crispy Chips: To ensure your tortilla chips stay crispy under the toppings, consider giving them a quick toast in the oven before layering. This helps them hold up better under the weight of the ingredients and adds an extra layer of crunch.
• Layering Techniques: For evenly distributed toppings, layer the ingredients in multiple stages rather than piling everything on at once. This technique ensures that every chip has a good mix of steak, eggs, beans, and cheese, making each bite more enjoyable.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Beverage Pairings: Complement the bold flavors of the nachos with a refreshing beverage. Freshly squeezed orange juice or a fruit smoothie provides a sweet contrast, while a spicy Bloody Mary or a tangy mimosa can elevate the brunch experience.
• Side Dishes: Serve these nachos alongside lighter dishes like a simple arugula salad with a citrus vinaigrette, or a fruit salad with a honey-lime dressing to balance the richness of the nachos. Another great option is a bowl of seasoned home fries or roasted vegetables to add more variety to the meal.

A Dish for All Ages:

• Kid-Friendly Option: Breakfast nachos can be a hit with kids, especially if you make a milder version without spicy elements like jalapeños. Consider letting them help with the assembly, as it can be a fun way to involve them in the kitchen and get them excited about trying new foods.
• Adults-Only Twist: For an adults-only version, consider adding a splash of tequila to the chimichurri sauce or serving the nachos with a spicy margarita on the side. This can turn breakfast into a fun and festive event, perfect for weekend brunches with friends.

Conclusion:

Breakfast doesn’t have to be boring, and these Breakfast Nachos are proof of that. By combining the rich flavors of steak and eggs with the satisfying crunch of nachos, this recipe offers a fresh and exciting way to start your day. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, these nachos are sure to impress with their bold flavors and unique twist on a classic dish. The zesty chimichurri sauce ties everything together, adding a burst of freshness that perfectly complements the savory ingredients. So the next time you’re in the mood for something special in the morning, give these Breakfast Nachos a try—you won’t be disappointed. They might just become your new favorite way to enjoy the most important meal of the day!