Cheesy Chile Rellenos Casserole: Easy Baked Mexican Recipe

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful twist on a beloved Mexican dish – Chile Rellenos Casserole Bake. This recipe perfectly captures the essence of traditional chile rellenos in an easy-to-make, baked casserole form, ideal for sharing with loved ones. The smoky flavor of charred poblano peppers nestled between layers of gooey cheese and topped with a golden, fluffy egg mixture creates a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

As the aroma of roasting poblano peppers wafts through your kitchen, you’ll be reminded of the comforting flavors of home-cooked meals. The versatility of this casserole allows for personalization – whether you opt for a milder Anaheim pepper or experiment with different cheese varieties, each bite promises a burst of savory goodness. Serve this Chile Rellenos Casserole Bake as a show-stopping brunch centerpiece or pair it with zesty breakfast potatoes for a delightful dinner option. Don’t forget to top it off with a dollop of sour cream, salsa, and fresh cilantro for a vibrant finish that elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of this casserole, and savor the memories it creates around the dining table. With its make-ahead convenience and freezer-friendly nature, this dish is perfect for any occasion, be it a cozy family brunch or a casual weeknight meal. Embrace the fusion of flavors and textures in this Chile Rellenos Casserole Bake, and embark on a culinary journey that promises to delight your palate and warm your heart.

Quick Benefits

• Convenient and Versatile: Easily make-ahead and freeze for up to four days, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
• Customizable: Swap peppers and cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Authentic Flavors: Retains the smoky char of the poblanos, offering a taste of traditional chile rellenos in a simpler, baked format.
• Balanced and Flavorful: Creamy, cheesy, and savory notes are enhanced by the bright, fresh garnishes like sour cream, salsa, and cilantro.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chile Rellenos Casserole: Easy Baked Mexican Recipe Recipe

• Bold Flavors: This recipe brings all the bold flavors of classic chile rellenos into a cozy baked dish that is sure to delight your taste buds.
• Cheesy Goodness: With layers of gooey Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, every bite is packed with cheesy deliciousness.
• Golden Egg Topping: The golden puffed top of the casserole is mouthwatering and adds a comforting touch to the dish.
• Smoky Charred Poblanos: The smoky char of poblano peppers adds a depth of flavor that sets this dish apart and evokes a sense of home-cooked comfort.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by swapping peppers or cheese, making it adaptable to your taste preferences.
• Make-Ahead: This casserole can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
• Freezer-Friendly: It freezes beautifully, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish at a moment’s notice.
• Serving Suggestions: Whether as a savory brunch showstopper, paired with spicy breakfast potatoes, or with a crisp green salad for a light dinner, this casserole is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways.
• Traditional Yet Approachable: While chile rellenos are a Mexican classic, baking them in casserole form makes them more approachable for everyday cooks while still preserving their comforting and traditional flavors.
• Family Favorite: This dish was a favorite at family gatherings and is likely to become a new favorite in your household as well.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chile Rellenos Casserole: Easy Baked Mexican Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 6 to 8 large poblano peppers

Cheese Blend

• 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 cups freshly shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided

Egg Custard

• 1.5 cups whole milk
• 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 5 large eggs
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 0.25 teaspoon onion powder
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Serving Suggestions

• fresh chopped cilantro, for garnish
• sour cream, for garnish
• salsa, for garnish

Pro Tips for Cheesy Chile Rellenos Casserole: Easy Baked Mexican Recipe

For the best flavor, take the time to roast and peel the poblano peppers. This step not only adds a delicious smoky char but also ensures a smooth texture without any bitter or tough skin, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the dish.

When making the casserole, consider leaving some pepper seeds in for an extra kick of heat or sprinkle chopped jalapeños between the cheese layers. This simple addition can elevate the dish with a spicy twist, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

To make meal prep easier, assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake when ready. The dish can be refrigerated for up to two days before baking, making it a convenient option for busy days. Remember to garnish with sour cream, fresh salsa, and chopped cilantro before serving to add brightness and freshness to the creamy, cheesy flavors.

How to Make Cheesy Chile Rellenos Casserole: Easy Baked Mexican Recipe

Step 1: Char and Steam the Poblano Peppers

Preheat broiler and place rack 15 cm from the heating element. Arrange poblano peppers on a foil-lined baking sheet and broil for 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until skins are blistered and blackened. Place peppers in a plastic bag or covered bowl to steam for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare Peppers

Peel charred skins from steamed peppers, discard stems and seeds, and set aside.

Step 3: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat oven to 175°C and lightly grease a 2.8-litre baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 4: Layer Peppers and Cheese

Layer half of the poblano peppers in the baking dish and top with 1 cup Monterey Jack and 0.5 cup cheddar cheese. Repeat with remaining peppers and cheeses.

Step 5: Mix Egg Custard

Combine eggs, milk, flour, baking powder, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth and well mixed.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Evenly pour the egg mixture over the layered peppers and cheese. Bake for about 45 minutes until the surface is golden and the center is set.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting. Top with sour cream, salsa, and chopped cilantro, if desired.

Storage Tips

Once you have made the Chile Rellenos Casserole Bake, storing the leftovers properly is essential. Cover the casserole well with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container before storing it in the refrigerator. The casserole can be kept in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to freeze the dish, slice it into portions and wrap them tightly before placing them in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy the frozen casserole, reheat it gently in the oven or microwave until it is heated through and the cheese has melted again.

To enhance the dish further, consider making some modifications. If you prefer a milder pepper, Anaheim or Hatch chiles can be used as alternatives. Adjust the roasting times based on the size of the peppers. Additionally, you can experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for a spicier kick or mozzarella for extra stretchiness. For those with dietary restrictions, oat milk or lactose-free options can be substituted for whole milk without significantly altering the final taste and texture of the casserole. Serve the casserole with sour cream, fresh salsa, and chopped cilantro for added brightness and flavor.

The Chile Rellenos Casserole Bake is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a savory brunch centerpiece, paired with spicy breakfast potatoes, or served with a crisp green salad for a lighter dinner option. Whether you savor it as a comforting family meal or share it at gatherings, this casserole offers a delicious blend of creamy, savory goodness that will surely become a new favorite in your household.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a milder option, Anaheim or Hatch chiles can be used instead of poblano peppers in this casserole. Adjust the roasting times accordingly based on the size of the peppers for optimal flavor and texture.

For cheese substitutions, consider using pepper jack if you want to add some heat, or a combination of mozzarella for a stretchy texture. These alternatives can still provide that gooey, cheesy element in the dish.

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, feel free to use oat milk or lactose-free milk as a substitute for whole milk in the recipe. This swap will not significantly alter the final outcome of the casserole, allowing you to enjoy a creamy and comforting dish without compromising on flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try layering the Chile Rellenos Casserole Bake between slices of toasted sourdough bread to create a savory breakfast sandwich. The gooey cheese, smoky poblanos, and fluffy egg topping will make for a delicious and satisfying meal on the go or for a leisurely weekend brunch.

Another fun idea is to use the Chile Rellenos Casserole Bake as a filling for breakfast burritos. Simply spoon the casserole onto warm flour tortillas, top with a dollop of sour cream, a drizzle of salsa, and a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro. Roll up the burritos, serve with extra salsa on the side for dipping, and enjoy a portable and flavorful breakfast option that’s perfect for busy mornings.

FAQs for Cheesy Chile Rellenos Casserole: Easy Baked Mexican Recipe

Can I use Anaheim or Hatch chiles instead of poblano peppers in this recipe?

Yes, Anaheim or Hatch chiles also work well. Adjust roasting times for different pepper sizes.

Why is peeling the peppers important for this casserole?

Peeling ensures a smooth texture and removes any bitter, tough skin for a more enjoyable bite.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble and bake, then reheat gently. It keeps well refrigerated for up to two days.

What are some recommended garnishes for the Chile Rellenos Casserole Bake?

Sour cream, fresh salsa, and chopped cilantro add brightness and complement the creamy, cheesy dish.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Chile Rellenos Casserole Bake brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. The combination of smoky poblanos, creamy cheese, and fluffy egg topping is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it for brunch, dinner, or any meal in between, its comforting flavors will surely delight your loved ones.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe—try different types of peppers or cheeses to make it your own. And remember, the key to a successful Chile Rellenos Casserole Bake lies in its simplicity and heartwarming flavors. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor every delicious bite of this delightful dish. Cheers to creating memorable moments around the table with this delicious Chile Rellenos Casserole Bake!