Sunrise Bean and Cheese Taco Bliss

Healthy & Hearty Bean and Cheese Breakfast Tacos: Your New Favorite Meatless Morning Meal

Top down view of Bean and Cheese breakfast tacos topped with salsa and avocado slices.

Why You’ll Love These Delicious Bean and Cheese Breakfast Tacos

Starting your day with a nutritious and satisfying meal doesn’t have to be complicated, especially during busy seasons or any time of year. Our meatless Bean and Cheese Breakfast Tacos offer the perfect solution: they are incredibly healthy, wonderfully hearty, and bursting with flavor. These tacos are more than just a morning meal; they’re a versatile dish that can fuel your day, whether you’re heading out for errands, preparing for a festive holiday, or simply enjoying a relaxed weekend at home.

Imagine soft, warm tortillas filled with perfectly seasoned refried beans, fluffy scrambled eggs, and your favorite melty cheese, all crowned with vibrant toppings like fresh salsa and creamy avocado. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will wake up your palate and keep you full and energized for hours. Forget boring breakfasts; these tacos bring excitement and wholesome goodness to your table in less than 30 minutes!

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While this recipe was proudly shared during the “A Christmas Festival Blog Hop” – a fantastic gathering of creative bloggers sharing various festive themes – these Bean and Cheese Breakfast Tacos are truly a year-round staple. We’re honored to have participated in such a wonderful event, and if you’re keen to explore more delightful ideas from the hop, you can find a complete list of this week’s themes at the bottom of this post.

If you’re hopping over from Love In My Oven, we extend a warm welcome and a huge thank you for stopping by! We believe these tacos perfectly complement the spirit of gathering and good food, making them an ideal choice for any occasion, not just holiday mornings. They offer a wonderfully hearty and filling breakfast, designed to provide the perfect fuel for your most hectic or relaxing days.

To truly complete your breakfast spread, consider pairing these savory tacos with something sweet. A light and airy Brioche Cinnamon Snowflake makes an elegant addition, or for another substantial option, try our Breakfast Enchiladas alongside some fluffy Cinnamon Roll Muffins. The versatility of these bean and cheese tacos means they can fit into any breakfast or brunch menu with ease.

Close up of bean and cheese breakfast tacos.

Crafting a Healthy and Wholesome Breakfast Recipe

These bean and cheese breakfast tacos have become a beloved fixture in our family’s meal rotation, especially since we embarked on our journey of raising chickens. What started as a modest venture earlier this year quickly led to an abundant supply of fresh eggs – sometimes as many as 12-15 a day! Faced with this delightful surplus, I found myself needing to get more creative than just serving plain scrambled or fried eggs for my eager crew. Even the most classic dishes can become monotonous, and my family, like many, enjoys variety.

Knowing my family’s deep affection for all things tacos, beans, and cheese, the idea of combining these elements with our fresh eggs seemed like a natural, yet innovative, step. The true inspiration, however, came from an unexpected source: my daughter’s toy, which plays a catchy tune with the memorable lyric, “put an egg on it.” Sometimes, the best culinary ideas spring from the simplest moments!

You might be thinking, “a toy for recipe inspiration?” But hear me out! (As a mom of eight, my adulting skills are often intertwined with childhood whims, and creativity strikes in the most unconventional ways.) These delightful tacos were, in essence, born out of a fun moment and the practical need to utilize a carton (or several!) of our farm-fresh eggs. What began as a spontaneous experiment quickly evolved into a much-requested and eagerly anticipated meal, solidifying its place in our regular menu. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with a touch of ingenuity, can transform into a family favorite that is both nourishing and exciting.

Beyond their delicious taste, these tacos are genuinely a healthy choice. Eggs are a powerhouse of protein, essential vitamins, and healthy fats, providing sustained energy. Beans, particularly pinto beans used in this recipe, are an excellent source of fiber, plant-based protein, and complex carbohydrates, contributing to digestive health and prolonged satiety. When combined with a moderate amount of cheese for calcium and healthy fats, and wrapped in whole-grain tortillas, you get a balanced meal that supports your well-being. This meatless option also makes it a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, offering a lighter alternative to traditional heavy breakfasts without sacrificing flavor or heartiness.

Bean and cheese breakfast tacos topped with salsa and avocado with shredded cheddar off to the side.

Key Features and Customization Tips for Your Breakfast Tacos

These Bean and Cheese Breakfast Tacos are incredibly adaptable, allowing you to tailor them to your family’s preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some detailed tips to help you create your perfect taco experience:

  • Egg Preparation: While I personally advocate for softly scrambled eggs in this recipe – a method that yields moist, glossy eggs that meld beautifully with the other fillings – the beauty of breakfast tacos is your freedom to choose. Feel free to prepare your eggs exactly how you like them. Sunny-side up, over-easy, or even a simple fried egg can add a different texture and richness to your tacos. The key is to cook them gently to retain moisture and flavor.
  • Make-Ahead Refried Beans: One of the best time-saving hacks for these tacos is preparing the refried beans in advance. You can cook a larger batch and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes assembly on busy mornings incredibly quick and easy. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making your own refried beans from dried pinto beans for an even deeper, more authentic flavor.
  • Savor the Toppings: The toppings are where these tacos truly shine and where you can let your creativity soar! While I adore a classic salsa, don’t hesitate to experiment. Fresh pico de gallo offers a burst of freshness, while creamy guacamole or sliced avocado adds a luxurious texture. For an extra kick, a dash of your favorite hot sauce is a must. Chopped fresh cilantro provides a vibrant herby note, and don’t forget other options like pickled red onions for a tangy crunch, or a dollop of sour cream for a cooling balance.
  • Cheese, Please!: The choice of cheese significantly impacts the flavor profile. Shredded cheddar is a classic for its familiar, tangy melt. However, exploring other varieties can elevate your tacos. Cotija cheese offers a salty, crumbly texture, queso fresco provides a fresh, mild creaminess, and Monterey Jack delivers a wonderfully smooth melt. A blend of cheeses can also create a complex and inviting flavor.
  • Perfect Pairings: While these tacos are incredibly satisfying on their own, serving them with fresh fruit on the side adds a refreshing contrast and completes the meal. Think mixed berries, sliced melon, or vibrant oranges. For a heartier brunch, consider adding a side of crispy roasted potatoes, or even a light green salad to balance the richness.
  • Tortilla Choice: Whether you prefer corn or flour tortillas, ensure they are warmed properly to make them pliable and enhance their flavor. A quick pass over an open flame, a warm skillet, or a brief wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave will do the trick. Six-inch tortillas are the perfect size for individual servings, but larger ones can be used if you prefer bigger tacos.

With these tips, you’re not just making breakfast; you’re crafting a customizable culinary experience that’s perfect for any time of day!

The Art of Building Your Breakfast Tacos

Creating the perfect bean and cheese breakfast taco is a simple yet rewarding process. It’s about layering flavors and textures to achieve a harmonious bite. Start with perfectly warmed tortillas – this is crucial for preventing tears and ensuring a pleasant eating experience. Then, generously spread the savory refried beans across the base. The beans act as a flavorful glue, holding everything together and providing a rich, earthy foundation. Next, pile on your freshly scrambled eggs. The soft, fluffy texture of the eggs contrasts beautifully with the beans and provides that essential protein boost.

Finally, it’s time for the stars of the show – your chosen toppings! Don’t be shy here. A sprinkle of shredded cheese will melt into gooey goodness, while a spoonful of vibrant salsa adds a refreshing zest. Creamy avocado slices bring a buttery texture and healthy fats, and a dash of hot sauce can elevate the entire experience with a kick. Remember, each component plays a vital role in creating a well-rounded and delightful breakfast taco. Experiment with combinations, find your favorites, and enjoy the process of customizing each taco to your liking.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Meal Prep

These Bean and Cheese Breakfast Tacos are fantastic fresh, but they also lend themselves well to meal prep. The refried bean mixture can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The scrambled eggs are best made fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated for a day and gently reheated. For best results, it’s advisable to assemble the tacos just before eating to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.

If you have leftover components, store them separately. To reheat the beans, simply warm them gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if they’ve thickened too much. Reheat scrambled eggs briefly in a microwave or a non-stick skillet until just warm to avoid overcooking. Warm your tortillas fresh, assemble, and enjoy a quick, delicious meal even on the busiest mornings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Bean and Cheese Breakfast Tacos

We’ve gathered some common questions to help you make these delicious tacos with confidence:

  • Can I make these vegan? Absolutely! Omit the eggs and cheese. Instead, try using a tofu scramble for the egg component and a dairy-free cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor to your tofu scramble.
  • What kind of beans should I use for refried beans? Pinto beans are traditional and highly recommended for their creamy texture and mild flavor. Black beans can also be used for a different, slightly denser result.
  • How do I keep my scrambled eggs from getting rubbery? The key is low heat and gentle folding. Remove the eggs from the heat while they are still slightly moist and glossy, as they will continue to cook from residual heat in the pan. Avoid over-stirring.
  • Are these tacos spicy? The base recipe is mildly spiced. You can adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to your preference. Adding hot sauce as a topping is an easy way to increase the heat for those who enjoy it.
  • Can I add vegetables? Yes! Sautéed bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms can be added to the scrambled eggs for extra flavor and nutrients. Diced tomatoes or jalapeños can also be added to the refried beans for more depth.

Now enough about these Bean and Cheese Breakfast Tacos! Head over to the next exciting stop on this blog hop, Curly Crafty Mom, for even more fun and delicious recipes! We hope you’ve enjoyed our contribution and are inspired to try these fantastic breakfast tacos at home.

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Bean and Cheese Breakfast Tacos

These meatless Bean and Cheese Breakfast Tacos are a fantastic way to start your day! They are healthy, hearty, and undeniably delicious!
Servings: 6
Author: Malinda Linnebur
These meatless Bean and Cheese Breakfast Tacos are a great way to start off the day! They are delicious, hearty, and healthy!
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
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Ingredients

  • 1 (28 oz) (850g) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2-3/4 cup (120-180ml) water
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper to taste
  • 12 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2-3 tablespoons butter
  • 12 corn or flour tortillas (6 inch size)
  • Toppings of choice: shredded cheese, salsa, avocado, cilantro, hot sauce, pico de gallo, guacamole

Instructions

Refried beans:

  • In a medium saucepan, combine the drained and rinsed pinto beans, water, diced onion, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (to taste). Simmer over low heat for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Mash the mixture with a potato masher or the back of a sturdy spoon until desired consistency is reached – they don’t need to be perfectly smooth. Continue to cook over low heat for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they achieve a thick, spreading consistency. (Keep in mind that the beans will also thicken slightly as they cool).

For the eggs:

  • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium to medium-low heat. Once the butter just begins to bubble and foam, pour in the lightly beaten eggs. As the eggs start to set around the edges (after about 30 seconds to 1 minute), gently push and fold them towards the center of the pan using a heat-resistant rubber spatula. Continue this gentle folding, pausing briefly between movements to allow the eggs to set slightly. Cook until the eggs are just set through but still appear glossy and moist, not dry. Immediately remove the skillet from the heat, as residual heat will continue to cook them.

To Serve:

  • Warm your corn or flour tortillas according to your preferred method (microwave, dry skillet, or over an open flame). Spread a generous layer of the refried beans onto each warm tortilla. Top with a spoonful of the fluffy scrambled eggs and then add your desired toppings, such as shredded cheese, fresh salsa, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, a dash of hot sauce, pico de gallo, or guacamole. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  1. Make-ahead tip: The flavorful refried beans are perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare them in advance and store them securely in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, ready to be reheated and assembled for a quick breakfast.
  2. For a balanced and refreshing meal, serve these hearty tacos with a side of fresh seasonal fruit.
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