Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Huevos Rancheros is a classic Mexican breakfast dish featuring fried eggs served on lightly fried corn tortillas, topped with a rich tomato-chili sauce. Hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s perfect for a weekend brunch or a satisfying morning meal. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a dish that brings comfort and warmth to the table.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

corn tortillaseggsolive oiloniongarlictomatoesjalapeño or serrano pepperground cuminrefried beanssalt and pepperfresh cilantroqueso fresco or cotija cheeseavocado (optional)

directions

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté chopped onion, garlic, and diced pepper until softened.

Add chopped tomatoes and ground cumin, then simmer until the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

In a separate pan, lightly fry the corn tortillas until golden but still pliable. Set aside.

In the same pan, fry the eggs to your preferred doneness—sunny-side up is traditional.

Warm the refried beans in a small saucepan or microwave.

To assemble, spread a spoonful of refried beans on each tortilla, place a fried egg on top, then spoon the tomato-chili sauce over the egg.

Garnish with crumbled queso fresco, chopped cilantro, and avocado slices if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2-3 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add cooked chorizo or crispy bacon for a meatier version.

Use black beans instead of refried beans for a lighter twist.

Top with a drizzle of Mexican crema or sour cream.

Roast the tomatoes and peppers for a smoky flavor.

Make it spicier by adding chipotle or extra chili.

storage/reheating

Store the sauce and beans separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat tortillas and eggs fresh before serving.To reheat, warm sauce and beans on the stovetop or in the microwave; assemble as directed.

FAQs

Can I make Huevos Rancheros ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and beans in advance, but the eggs and tortillas are best cooked fresh.

What kind of tortillas should I use?

Corn tortillas are traditional and hold up better than flour in this dish.

Are Huevos Rancheros spicy?

They can be mildly spicy or hot depending on the type and amount of chili used.

Can I use canned tomatoes?

Yes, canned tomatoes work well if fresh are not available.

Can I bake the eggs instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake eggs in ramekins or a muffin tin for a different texture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free corn tortillas and check your refried beans.

Can I make it vegan?

Use plant-based refried beans and omit the egg or replace with tofu scramble.

Do I need to use cheese?

No, cheese is optional and can be skipped or replaced with a vegan alternative.

Can I use salsa instead of making the sauce?

Yes, a good-quality salsa can be a quick substitute.

How do I keep tortillas from getting soggy?

Lightly frying them creates a barrier that prevents sogginess.

Conclusion

Huevos Rancheros is a satisfying, flavorful breakfast that brings the heart of Mexican cuisine to your plate. It’s easy to customize and quick to prepare, making it a go-to dish for mornings when you want something delicious and comforting. Try it once and it might become a staple in your breakfast rotation.