Huevos Rancheros is a traditional Mexican breakfast dish featuring crispy corn tortillas topped with fried eggs, savory tomato-based sauce, ground chorizo, crumbled queso fresco, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges. A perfect combination of bold flavors and textures to start your day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Huevos Rancheros is a delicious, satisfying, and hearty dish that brings together all the best flavors of Mexican cuisine. The combination of crispy tortillas, sunny-side-up eggs, smoky chorizo, and the vibrant tomato sauce creates a balanced and flavorful meal. The addition of fresh cilantro and lime gives it a refreshing touch that complements the richness of the sauce and chorizo. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast or brunch, Huevos Rancheros will leave you feeling full and happy!
Ingredients
For the Huevos Rancheros:
- 2 corn tortillas
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup ground chorizo
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying tortillas)
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 small onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir and let simmer for 10-12 minutes, until the tomatoes break down into a sauce. Set aside.
- Cook the Chorizo:
- In a separate skillet, cook the ground chorizo over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
- Fry the Tortillas:
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the tortillas for about 1-2 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Cook the Eggs:
- In the same skillet, cook the eggs sunny-side up or to your preferred doneness. Season with a little salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Place a fried tortilla on each plate, spoon the tomato sauce over the tortilla, and top with the cooked chorizo.
- Add the fried eggs on top, followed by crumbled queso fresco, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chorizo and use sautéed mushrooms or black beans for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to give the dish an extra spicy punch.
- Cheese Options: Instead of queso fresco, try cotija cheese or shredded cheddar for a different cheese profile.
- Avocado: Add some creamy sliced avocado on top for added richness and texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the tomato sauce and chorizo in a pan, and cook the eggs fresh for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat before assembling the dish.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but corn tortillas are traditional for this dish and add a distinct flavor and texture.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, you can increase the heat by adding more chili powder or fresh jalapeños to the sauce or as a topping.
How do I make the tortillas extra crispy?
Fry the tortillas in hot oil until golden brown and crispy, then drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
How do I know when the eggs are cooked just right?
For sunny-side-up eggs, cook them for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring the whites are set but the yolks remain runny. If you prefer them more well-cooked, cover the pan for a minute or two to cook the top of the egg.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of chorizo?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but it will have a different flavor profile. Consider adding some spices, such as smoked paprika or cumin, to enhance the flavor.
How can I make this dish vegetarian without compromising the flavor?
Instead of chorizo, you can use seasoned black beans, grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms to provide a hearty and flavorful alternative.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the components of this dish (like the sauce and chorizo) can be made ahead, it’s best to fry the tortillas and eggs fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Can I make this dish without cilantro?
Yes, you can skip the cilantro or replace it with fresh parsley or green onions for a different flavor.
What can I serve with huevos rancheros?
This dish pairs well with a side of refried beans, Mexican rice, or a light salad with lime dressing.
Conclusion
Huevos Rancheros is a classic and flavorful Mexican breakfast dish that brings together crispy tortillas, savory tomato sauce, seasoned chorizo, and a perfectly fried egg. With the addition of fresh cilantro and lime, it offers a balance of flavors that make every bite a delicious experience. Perfect for brunch, a weekend breakfast, or any day you’re craving something satisfying and flavorful, this dish is sure to impress.
Huevos Rancheros
A traditional Mexican breakfast dish featuring fried eggs served on crispy corn tortillas, topped with a savory tomato-based sauce, ground chorizo, crumbled cheese, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges. The perfect combination of flavors and textures to start your day!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- For the huevos rancheros:
- 2 corn tortillas
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup ground chorizo
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying tortillas)
- For the tomato sauce:
- 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 small onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the tomato sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir and let simmer for 10-12 minutes, until the tomatoes break down into a sauce.
- Cook the chorizo: In a separate skillet, cook the ground chorizo over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
- Fry the tortillas: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the tortillas for about 1-2 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Cook the eggs: In the same skillet, cook the eggs sunny-side up or to your preferred doneness. Season with a little salt and pepper.
- Assemble the dish: Place a fried tortilla on each plate, spoon the tomato sauce over the tortilla, and top with the cooked chorizo. Add the fried eggs on top, followed by crumbled queso fresco, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add extra chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce.
- For a more filling dish, you can add some avocado slices or black beans on top.
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 215mg