Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Huevos Rancheros is a classic Mexican breakfast dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Featuring crispy corn tortillas topped with fried eggs, warm ranchero sauce, and a variety of toppings like beans, avocado, and cheese, it’s a vibrant and comforting way to start your day. Whether you’re serving it for brunch or a breakfast-for-dinner night, this dish is as delicious as it is easy to make.

ingredients

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

corn tortillaseggsrefried beans or black beansolive oil or vegetable oilonion (finely chopped)garlic (minced)jalapeño or serrano pepper (optional for heat)tomatoes (chopped or canned)tomato pasteground cuminchili powderpaprikasaltpepperfresh cilantroqueso fresco or shredded cheddaravocadosour cream or cremafresh lime wedges

directions

Heat a bit of oil in a skillet and lightly fry the corn tortillas until crisp and golden. Set aside on paper towels.

In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté the onions, garlic, and jalapeño until softened.

Add chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes a thick ranchero sauce.

In another pan, heat the beans until warmed through.

Fry the eggs to your liking—sunny side up is traditional.

To assemble, spread warm beans on each tortilla, top with a fried egg, then spoon over the ranchero sauce.

Garnish with avocado slices, crumbled queso fresco, cilantro, and a drizzle of crema or sour cream.

Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add chorizo or bacon for extra protein.

Use salsa verde instead of tomato-based ranchero sauce.

Top with pickled red onions or radish slices for a tangy crunch.

Make it vegan by using plant-based eggs and dairy-free toppings.

Serve with a side of Mexican rice or roasted potatoes.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover ranchero sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Fried tortillas and eggs are best made fresh, but you can prep beans and toppings ahead.
Reheat sauce and beans on the stovetop or microwave before assembling.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought salsa instead of homemade ranchero sauce?
Yes, but homemade adds a richer, more authentic flavor.

Do I have to fry the tortillas?
Frying gives them the best texture, but you can toast or bake them for a lighter version.

What kind of beans work best?
Refried beans, black beans, or even pinto beans all work well.

Can I make this spicy?
Add more jalapeño, a splash of hot sauce, or use spicy salsa to amp up the heat.

Is this dish only for breakfast?
Not at all—Huevos Rancheros makes a great lunch or dinner too.

Conclusion

Huevos Rancheros is a flavorful and fulfilling dish that brings the bold taste of Mexico to your breakfast table. With its crispy base, runny eggs, and zesty sauce, it’s a meal that satisfies every craving. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy it any time of day for a vibrant, comforting plate that never disappoints.