If you love bold flavor, gooey cheese, and a satisfying texture contrast in every bite, you’re in for a treat. This Green Chile & Extra Cheese Chilaquiles Skillet takes crispy tortilla chips and elevates them with a spicy, tangy sauce, loads of melted cheese, and vibrant toppings. It’s cozy, quick to make, and works beautifully for breakfast, brunch, or even an easy dinner on a busy night.
The magic of chilaquiles is all in the balance — the tortilla chips should soften just enough to soak up rich, savory sauciness without becoming mushy, so some crunch remains. The green chiles give a signature kick that pairs perfectly with the rich, melty cheese, and you can finish it with creamy toppings like sour cream, avocado, or even a fried egg for extra indulgence.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something bold and comforting, this skillet recipe checks all the boxes.
Ingredients :
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful skillet of chilaquiles:
- 6 cups sturdy tortilla chips — Thick chips work best so they hold up in the sauce without getting too soft.
- 1 cup diced green chiles — Canned or fresh roasted adds bright, spicy flavor.
- 1½ cups red enchilada sauce or salsa roja — This forms the rich base that coats the chips.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese — Sharp flavor melts into the chips for cheesy goodness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack — Adds smooth, gooey meltiness.
- 1/4 cup diced onion (optional) — Adds sweetness and depth.
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper or jalapeño (optional) — For added texture and a bit more spice.
- 1 tablespoon oil or butter — Helps sauté the veggies.
- Salt and pepper, to taste — Balances and enhances flavors.
- Optional toppings: sour cream, fried egg, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro — add these just before serving.
Directions (Step by Step) :
Follow these steps for perfectly saucy, cheesy chilaquiles that are bursting with flavor:
1. Heat the Skillet
Pour the oil or melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. This will be the base for your vegetables and sauce.
2. Saute the Aromatics (Optional)
If you’re using onion, bell pepper, or jalapeño, add them now and cook until the onion softens and becomes fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. This builds a flavorful foundation for your sauce.
3. Add the Sauce and Chiles
Pour in the enchilada sauce or salsa roja along with the diced green chiles. Stir gently to combine with the sautéed veggies, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Let the sauce heat through for a few minutes so the flavors meld and deepen.
4. Add the Tortilla Chips
Add the tortilla chips to the skillet and gently toss them in the sauce. You want each chip to be coated but still retain some structure — cook just long enough for them to soften slightly, usually 2–3 minutes. Avoid over-stirring so they don’t become mushy.
5. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella (or Monterey Jack) evenly over the top of the chips and sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and lower the heat.
Let the cheese melt completely, about 3–5 minutes. You’re looking for a luscious, gooey cheese layer that blankets the chips like a warm comfort hug.
6. Finish With Toppings
Once the cheese is fully melted and sticky, remove the skillet from heat. Add your favorite finishers — a dollop of sour cream, slices of fresh avocado, a fried egg for richness, or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for brightness.
7. Serve Right Away
Chilaquiles are best enjoyed immediately while the chips are still a mix of tender and crisp and the cheese is warm and melty. Dish them straight from the skillet onto plates or bowls.
Conclusion :
This Green Chile & Extra Cheese Chilaquiles Skillet is a celebration of bold flavors and irresistible textures. The combination of tangy sauce, spicy green chiles, sturdy tortilla chips, and rich melted cheese creates a dish that feels both comforting and exciting. It’s versatile, too — perfect for breakfast with a fried egg on top, for a cozy brunch shared with friends, or for an easy dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
What makes chilaquiles special isn’t just how delicious they are, but how easy they feel to make. With a few simple ingredients and one skillet, you can bring a vibrant, bold dish to the table in a flash. Customize your toppings however you like — creamy sour cream, fresh herbs, creamy avocado, or a squeeze of lime — to make this dish your own.
Serve it hot, savor every cheesy bite, and enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple. 🌶️
