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Best Red Chilaquiles Recipe – Freshly Ingredients

Name: Best Red Chilaquiles Recipe – Freshly Ingredients
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: Canola oil; 12 corn tortillas; 2 guajillo chiles, seeded; ½ onion; 2 chiles de árbol; 3 roma tomatoes, chopped; 3 garlic cloves; 2 cups water; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; Queso fresco, crumbled; Avocado, sliced; Fried egg; Mexican crema

Charlotte Shapiro September 4, 2025

Servings: 2 Total Time: 30 mins

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Before diving into this delicious red chilaquiles recipe, let’s talk pairings. What goes well with chilaquiles? Here are some tasty options:

Fresh Mango Salsa: This tropical salsa adds a sweet and tangy contrast that elevates your chilaquiles.

Refried Beans: Pairing them with protein-rich refried beans enhances the meal, making it heartier.

Fried Eggs: Adding a fried egg on top takes breakfast or brunch to another level. The runny yolk mixes beautifully with the sauce.

Cilantro Lime Rice: This bright, zesty rice complements the flavors of the chilaquiles and adds extra texture.

Imagine waking up on a weekend morning with a craving for something hearty and flavorful. That’s when red chilaquiles come into play. This dish is a staple in Mexican cuisine, and for good reason. It blends crispy tortilla chips with a rich, spicy sauce and an array of toppings. Trust me, it will make your taste buds dance.

I remember the first time I tasted chilaquiles at a local Mexican diner. The vibrant colors and bold flavors pulled me in. Ever since then, I’ve been on a quest to perfect a red chilaquiles recipe that celebrates these traditional flavors while making them accessible for everyone.

In this blog post, I’ll not only give you the best red chilaquiles recipe but also share tips and tricks that I’ve learned over the years to make this dish shine. So roll up your sleeves; it’s time to make chilaquiles that will impress your family and friends.

What is the Best Red Chilaquiles Recipe?

At its core, traditional chilaquiles consists of fried tortilla chips simmered in salsa, topped with various ingredients like cheese, avocado, and sour cream. What sets my recipe apart is the vibrant sauce made from guajillo and chiles de arbol, giving a perfect balance of smokiness and heat. I aim for layers of flavors that don’t overwhelm but rather entice.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic comes from using quality ingredients and a balance of textures and flavors. The sauce is rich without being overwhelming, and the toppings add freshness. You’ll find that frying the tortillas until they are crisp ensures they hold up against the sauce. Plus, it’s all about building flavor step by step, which is essential in creating a delightful dish.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Gather the following ingredients:

For frying:
Canola oil (about two cups, adjust based on your pan size)

For the sauce:
12 corn tortillas
2 guajillo chiles, seeded
½ onion (white or yellow), chopped finely
2 chiles de árbol (increase quantity for extra heat)
3 roma tomatoes, chopped
3 garlic cloves
2 cups water
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper

For toppings:
Queso fresco, crumbled
Avocado, sliced
Fried egg (optional)
Mexican crema

How to Make the Best Red Chilaquiles Recipe

Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions that will guide you through creating this delicious dish.

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering your ingredients. Chop the onion, garlic, and tomatoes. Seed the guajillo chiles. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Fry the Tortillas

In a large skillet, heat your canola oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, cut the tortillas into quarters. Fry them in batches, cooking until golden brown and crispy. This should take about two to three minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a blender, combine the guajillo chiles, chiles de arbol, onion, tomatoes, garlic, water, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.

Step 4: Cook the Sauce

In the same skillet used for frying the tortillas, pour in the blended sauce. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and meld the flavors together.

Step 5: Combine Tortillas and Sauce

Add the crispy tortillas to the sauce in the skillet. Stir gently to coat every piece without breaking them. Let it cook for another five minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat. Now it’s time for the fun part. Plate your chilaquiles and top with crumbled queso fresco, sliced avocado, a fried egg, and a drizzle of Mexican crema.

Tips for Making the Best Red Chilaquiles

Creating a flawless batch of chilaquiles is easy when you keep a few tips in mind:

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a noticeable difference. Use ripe tomatoes and fresh chiles.

Control the Heat: Customize the spice level by adjusting the number of chiles de árbol.

Tortilla Texture Matters: Be sure to fry the tortillas until they are crisp. This prevents them from getting mushy in the sauce.

Balance the Flavor: Tasting the sauce before combining with tortillas is key. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Don’t Skip the Toppings: They add richness and flavor. Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination.

How to Store Leftovers

If you’ve made a large batch or have leftovers, there’s no need to fret. Chilaquiles can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about three days. Just keep in mind that the tortillas will soften over time. When reheating, add a splash of water to revive the sauce and heat gently.

Nutrition Information

A typical serving of red chilaquiles can provide approximately:

Calories: 400
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Total Fat: 20g

Nutrition can vary based on the specific toppings and portion sizes. Always adjust based on your dietary needs.

How Would I Recommend Serving Best Red Chilaquiles Recipe?

Here are some great ideas for serving:

Brunch Star: Perfect as a brunch option alongside mimosas or fresh fruit. The bright colors and flavors make it visually appealing.

Game Day Treat: Serve chilaquiles as a fun appetizer for game day. Pair them with guacamole and chips for interactive snacking.

Family Dinner: Transform it into a hearty family dinner served with black beans and rice. Everyone will enjoy building their own plates.

Meatless Monday: Make it a meatless option topped with protein-rich beans or lentils for a filling vegetarian meal.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if Not Available?

Sometimes you might find yourself short on an ingredient. Here are some alternatives:

Corn Tortillas: If you can’t find corn tortillas, flour tortillas work in a pinch but might alter the texture.

Guajillo Chiles: If these are unavailable, use ancho chiles for a deep, smoky flavor. They are slightly sweeter.

Mexican Crema: Substitute with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy finish.

Queso Fresco: In case you don’t have this cheese, you could use feta cheese or cotija cheese, keeping the essence alive.

Conclusion

Making the best red chilaquiles is a culinary adventure that combines simple ingredients into a festive dish. As you try this recipe, remember that cooking is about enjoyment; it’s about sharing joy and flavor with those around you. Each bite of these chilaquiles captures the essence of tradition and comfort.

So gather your loved ones, whip up this vibrant dish, and watch as it brings smiles all around. And who knows? This might just become your new go-to breakfast or brunch recipe. Enjoy!

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Print Recipe

Best Red Chilaquiles Recipe – Freshly Ingredients

Author: Charlotte Shapiro Cuisine: Mexican Courses: Breakfast

Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 30 mins

Servings: 2 Calories: 400

Description

I remember the first time I tasted chilaquiles at a local Mexican diner. The vibrant colors and bold flavors pulled me in. Ever since then, I've been on a quest to perfect a red chilaquiles recipe that celebrates these traditional flavors while making them accessible for everyone.