Summer break is here, and with six kids at home, meal ideas disappear fast. Franklyn usually does the cooking, but on evenings when he’s late, I take over. Neither of us wants to spend more time in the kitchen than necessary, so when a coworker mentioned chilaquiles with avocados and queso fresco, Franklyn wrote down the ingredients and we tried it at home. It quickly became a favorite—simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy days.
Chilaquiles With Avocados & Queso Fresco
Chilaquiles are made from corn tortillas softened in salsa. Traditionally served for breakfast or brunch, they’re often prepared using leftover tortillas and salsa from the day before. We finished ours with fresh avocado slices and crumbled queso fresco. For variety, try a fried egg on top for breakfast or shredded chicken for a heartier dinner.
Chilaquiles With Avocados & Queso Fresco
Here’s the easy chilaquiles recipe. Adjust seasonings and toppings to suit your family’s taste.
Ingredients:
4 tomatoes
2 jalapeños
1/2 clove garlic
1/2 large white onion
A handful of cilantro
Soft white corn tortillas
Queso fresco
Avocado
Instructions for Salsa:
Preheat the oven to broil. Place the tomatoes, jalapeños, onion, and garlic on a baking pan and broil, turning occasionally, until the skins blister and char—about 10 minutes. Transfer the roasted vegetables to a blender, add about 2 tablespoons of cilantro and salt and pepper to taste, and purée until smooth. Set the salsa aside.
Chilaquiles
Pour about 1/4 cup of oil into a large frying pan and heat over medium. When the oil is hot, add tortilla pieces and fry until they’re lightly browned and slightly crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels. We used a cast-iron skillet, but any pan will work.
Return the fried tortilla pieces to the pan a few at a time and pour in enough salsa to coat them. Simmer gently until the tortillas soften but still hold some texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Top with sliced avocado, a handful of cilantro, and crumbled queso fresco—about 3 ounces for our batch. Serve immediately so the chilaquiles stay warm and flavorful.
Have you tried chilaquiles before? What toppings do you like best—eggs, chicken, crema, or extra cheese?
Chilaquiles With Avocados & Queso Fresco
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Looking for more dinner inspiration? Below are a couple of our favorite recipes to try next.
MINI MUSHROOM & WILD RICE BURRITO + JALAPEÑO CILANTRO DIPPING SAUCE
Vegan Dominican Chimi Burger
Enjoy these easy, flavorful meals that don’t take forever to prepare—perfect when time is tight and appetites are big.