There’s a certain warmth that fills the kitchen when the first rays of the morning sun greet a delicious breakfast. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that not only nourishes but also delights the senses: Spicy Breakfast Beans and Eggs in Smoky Chipotle Tomato Sauce. Imagine savory white beans simmering in a rich, smoky sauce, punctuated by the zesty pops of pickled onions and the creamy goodness of poached eggs resting on top.
This one-pan meal is perfect for those busy mornings when you crave something more satisfying than the usual toast or cereal. It’s vegetarian, packed with protein, and bursting with flavors that will awaken your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting friends for brunch or simply seeking comfort after a long day, this hearty dish is sure to impress without taking up too much of your time. Join me in transforming your breakfast routine—let’s get cooking!
Why will you love Breakfast Beans and Eggs?
Simplicity at Its Best: This one-pan meal is a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for busy mornings or quick dinners.
Rich, Smoky Flavor: The combination of chipotle tomato sauce with savory beans delivers a warm, satisfying taste that will brighten your mornings.
High-Protein Goodness: Packed with protein from the beans and eggs, this dish keeps you full and energized throughout the day.
Versatile and Adaptable: Customize with different beans, add veggies, or tweak the spice level to match your taste preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for brunch gatherings or lazy weekend mornings, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Fresh and Bright: Topped with pickled onions and cilantro, it’s a deliciously vibrant dish that brings a pop of flavor to every bite. Don’t forget to check out other vegetarian breakfast options to complement your next meal!
Breakfast Beans and Eggs Ingredients
• Get ready to create magic in your kitchen with these delightful ingredients!
For the Base
- Red Onion – Adds a savory base flavor and slight sweetness; consider yellow onion for a milder taste.
- Garlic Cloves – Imparts aromatic richness and depth; garlic powder works if fresh isn’t available.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing aromatics; avocado oil can be a tasty substitute.
For the Sauce
- Tomato Paste – Provides a robust tomato flavor and thickness to the sauce; crushed tomatoes can work as a substitute.
- Chipotle Pepper in Adobo Sauce – Infuses heat and smokiness; for a milder option, use smoked paprika.
For the Beans
- White Beans (e.g., Cannellini or Great Northern) – Delivers protein and creaminess; pinto beans are a great alternative.
- Water – Used for simmering; enhance flavor with vegetable broth instead.
For Cooking
- Large Eggs – The star protein source cooked atop the beans; tofu is a fantastic plant-based substitute.
For Finishing Touches
- Lime – Adds acidity to balance flavors; fresh lemon can serve as an alternative.
- Minced Cilantro (for garnish) – Provides fresh, herbal notes; substitute with green onion if preferred.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the overall taste.
- White Sugar (optional) – Balances acidity in the sauce; feel free to omit if desired.
Ready to gather your ingredients and whip up this delightful Breakfast Beans and Eggs recipe? Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Breakfast Beans and Eggs
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Pickle the Onions: Thinly slice a quarter of the red onion, then combine it with lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bag. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes to develop those wonderful flavors.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until aromatic, then stir in the remaining diced onion until they turn translucent, about 6-8 minutes.
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Cook the Pastes: Mix in the tomato paste and chopped chipotle pepper, cooking until caramelized, which should take about 3 minutes. This adds depth and complexity to your sauce!
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Simmer the Beans: Stir in the drained white beans along with the water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 6-8 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste, making sure it’s just right.
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Poach the Eggs: Carefully create wells in the bean mixture and crack the eggs into those wells. Cover and cook until the whites are set, usually around 3-5 minutes—perfect for that delectable runny yolk!
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Serve: Ladle the beans and eggs into bowls, topping generously with pickled onions and minced cilantro. Enjoy this warm, comforting meal immediately!
Optional: Serve with warm corn tortillas or crusty bread for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Breakfast Beans and Eggs are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic mornings! You can prepare the base—sauté the onions, garlic, and create the chipotle tomato sauce—up to 24 hours in advance. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve flavor. The beans can also be cooked ahead of time; they actually deepen in taste overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the bean mixture in a skillet, create the wells, and crack the eggs in. Cover and cook until the eggs are set, ensuring a delicious breakfast that feels just as fresh!
Breakfast Beans and Eggs Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dish and truly make it your own!
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Black Beans: Swap white beans for black beans to introduce a different flavor and color to your dish. The earthy taste pairs beautifully with the chipotle.
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Lentils: For a hearty twist, replace beans with lentils. They’ll provide a nutty flavor and tender texture while keeping the dish protein-rich.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in some chopped spinach or bell peppers while sautéing to add a tasty burst of nutrition and vibrant color.
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Soft-Boiled Eggs: Instead of poaching, try soft-boiling the eggs for a unique presentation. The oozing yolk adds a rich creaminess as you dig in.
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Salsa Joy: Drizzle your favorite salsa over the finished dish for an additional kick and freshness, making every bite exciting and flavorful.
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Herb Variations: Swap cilantro for fresh parsley or basil for a different herbal note, elevating the dish with their distinctive flavors.
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Heat It Up: Turn up the spice level by adding diced jalapeños or a healthy pinch of cayenne pepper. It’s perfect for those who love an extra fiery finish.
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Taco Style: Serve the beans and eggs stuffed in warm tortillas or alongside toasted pita for a fun and interactive meal experience that everyone will love.
Expert Tips for Breakfast Beans and Eggs
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Perfect Poaching: For that ideal runny yolk, remove the skillet from the heat as soon as the whites are just set; practice makes perfect!
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Quick-Pickle Advantage: Quick-pickle the onions beforehand or even the night before to deepen the flavors beautifully.
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Spice to Taste: Adjust the amount of chipotle pepper based on your heat preference; you can always add more but can’t take it out once added!
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Creative Serving: Serve with warm corn tortillas, pita, or crusty bread to soak up every last bite of the delicious breakfast beans and eggs.
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Flavor Boost: Consider using vegetable broth instead of water for simmering the beans to elevate the overall flavor profile of the dish!
What to Serve with Breakfast Beans and Eggs?
Transform your breakfast experience with delightful pairings that elevate this nourishing meal to new heights.
- Warm Corn Tortillas: Perfect for scooping up the savory beans and eggs, these will add a lovely texture and boost your meal’s heartiness.
- Crispy Avocado Toast: The creamy richness of avocado on crusty bread provides a rich, contrasting flavor that perfectly complements the spicy sauce.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing assortment of seasonal fruits adds a sweet and zesty contrast, balancing the dish’s smokiness beautifully.
- Sautéed Spinach: This quick green side offers a burst of nutrition and vibrant color, enhancing the meal without stealing the spotlight.
- Feta Cheese Crumbles: Silky and tangy, crumbling feta on top provides an unexpected flavor twist that pairs nicely with the savory beans and eggs.
- Chilled Sparkling Water: For a refreshing drink, serve with a splash of lime; it cleanses the palate and enhances the meal’s flavors.
- Homemade Salsa: Whether fresh or roasted, a zesty salsa provides an additional layer of flavor and texture to the dish.
- Greek Yogurt: A dollop can add a creamy contrast, replacing sour cream for a healthier option that still satisfies your taste buds.
- Sweet Potato Hash: This hearty side offers a delightful sweetness and extra crunch that complements the dish’s savory aspects.
How to Store and Freeze Breakfast Beans and Eggs
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop for the best texture and flavor revival.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the dish, first cool it completely, then pack in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating: For best results when reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it on low heat in a skillet. Add a splash of water for moisture.
Serving Fresh: This breakfast beans and eggs dish is best enjoyed fresh, but the leftovers can be just as delicious when stored properly!
Breakfast Beans and Eggs Recipe FAQs
What type of beans should I use for breakfast beans and eggs?
Absolutely! I recommend using white beans like Cannellini or Great Northern for their creamy texture and high protein content. However, if you prefer something different, pinto beans or black beans also work wonderfully and bring their own unique flavors to the dish.
How should I store leftover breakfast beans and eggs?
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain a nice texture. If the mixture seems too thick, a splash of water can help revive it!
Can I freeze breakfast beans and eggs?
Yes! For optimal freshness, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will maintain its quality for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on low, adding a bit of water if needed to keep it moist.
What if my eggs aren’t poaching correctly?
Very! If your eggs are spreading too much in the mixture, ensure you’re cracking them into a well created in the beans. Keep the heat moderate; too much heat can cause the whites to cook too quickly, while the yolks remain undercooked. If you prefer firmer yolks, allow the eggs to cook for an additional minute or two.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, packed with protein from the beans and eggs. If you’re looking for a vegan option, simply substitute the eggs with tofu or omit them entirely. Additionally, if you or your loved ones have allergies, check for ingredients like chipotle in adobo sauce or any substitutes to tailor the dish to your dietary needs. Enjoy cooking!
Hearty Breakfast Beans and Eggs in Chipotle Tomato Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pickle the Onions: Thinly slice a quarter of the red onion, then combine it with lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bag. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes to develop those wonderful flavors.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until aromatic, then stir in the remaining diced onion until they turn translucent, about 6-8 minutes.
- Cook the Pastes: Mix in the tomato paste and chopped chipotle pepper, cooking until caramelized, which should take about 3 minutes.
- Simmer the Beans: Stir in the drained white beans along with the water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 6-8 minutes.
- Poach the Eggs: Carefully create wells in the bean mixture and crack the eggs into those wells. Cover and cook until the whites are set, usually around 3-5 minutes.
- Serve: Ladle the beans and eggs into bowls, topping generously with pickled onions and minced cilantro. Enjoy this warm, comforting meal immediately!