New Mexico

Breakfast Enchiladas

Corn tortillas rolled around scrambled eggs and cheese, then smothered in your choice of authentic New Mexico red or green chile sauce. Topped with a sunny-side-up egg and served "Christmas" style if you can't decide. Red or green? That's the question every New Mexican answers daily.

Total 45min 🍴 Serves 4 Land of Enchantment 🌶 Chile Heat

Equipment Needed

🍽 Saucepans
🍳 Large Skillet
🔥 Baking Dish
🥄 Whisk
🥣 Mixing Bowl

Instructions

1

Make the red chile sauce: In a saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Add the red chile powder and whisk constantly for 30 seconds. Gradually whisk in water or broth. Add garlic, salt, and cumin. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until thickened.

Tip: Use authentic New Mexico red chile powder from Hatch or Chimayo for the real deal - it's completely different from regular chili powder.
2

Make the green chile sauce: Combine roasted green chiles, chicken broth, garlic, and salt in a blender. Pulse until you reach desired consistency (chunky or smooth). Heat in a saucepan and simmer for 10 minutes.

3

Cook the chorizo (if using): In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

4

Scramble the eggs: Beat the 8 eggs in a bowl. Melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat, add the diced onion and cook until soft. Pour in the eggs and gently scramble until just set but still creamy. Fold in the chorizo if using.

5

Soften the tortillas: Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet. Quickly dip each tortilla in the hot oil for just a few seconds per side to soften. Drain on paper towels. Alternatively, wrap in damp paper towels and microwave.

6

Fill and roll: Place a spoonful of scrambled eggs and a sprinkle of cheese down the center of each softened tortilla. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.

7

Smother with chile: Ladle your choice of chile sauce over the enchiladas - red, green, or "Christmas" (half and half). Top with remaining shredded cheese. Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling.

8

Fry the eggs: While enchiladas bake, fry 4 eggs sunny-side up or over-easy in a buttered skillet. The runny yolk is essential.

9

Serve New Mexico style: Place 2 enchiladas on each plate. Top with a fried egg. Add a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, and diced tomatoes. Serve immediately with refried beans and hash browns on the side.

💡 Pro Tips & Variations

  • Red or green? This is the official state question of New Mexico. Red chile is earthier and slightly sweeter; green is brighter and often hotter. "Christmas" gets you both!
  • Hatch chile season: Fresh Hatch green chiles are harvested in late summer. Stock up and freeze them for year-round use.
  • Flat vs. rolled: Traditional New Mexico enchiladas are often served flat (stacked) rather than rolled. Try it both ways!
  • Make it vegetarian: Skip the chorizo - the chile sauce and cheese provide plenty of flavor.
  • Heat level: New Mexico chiles range from mild to extra hot. Ask your supplier or check the label for heat level.
  • The egg on top: This is non-negotiable for breakfast enchiladas. The runny yolk mixing with the chile sauce is what makes this dish legendary.