Easy Chile Relleno Casserole Recipe That Everyone Will Love

Hearty chile relleno casserole brings a fiesta of flavors straight to your dinner table.

Layers of roasted peppers, melted cheese, and savory eggs create a mouthwatering combination that feels like a warm hug.

Comfort meets excitement in this crowd-pleasing dish that works perfectly for lazy weekend brunches or casual weeknight meals.

Spice lovers will appreciate the bold kick of green chiles nestled between creamy ingredients.

Mexican-inspired cooking doesn’t get easier or more delicious than this simple yet impressive casserole.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of textures and rich, satisfying flavors.

You’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket for those moments when you crave something special and comforting.

Why Chile Relleno Casserole Is So Tasty

• Customize with Ease: Transform this chile relleno casserole by swapping ingredients like adding chorizo, using different cheese varieties, or including extra veggies for a personalized touch.
• Quick Family Pleaser: Gather everyone around the table with this crowd-pleasing dish that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Versatile Meal Solution: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this casserole adapts seamlessly to any mealtime, impressing guests and satisfying hungry family members with its rich, comforting flavors.
• Stress-Free Cooking: Minimal chopping, simple layering, and straightforward instructions make this recipe welcoming for home cooks of all skill levels, ensuring a delicious outcome without complicated techniques.

Ingredients for Chile Relleno Casserole

• Eggs: Rich protein source that helps bind the casserole together and creates a fluffy texture.
• Whole Milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a smooth custard-like base for the casserole.
• Tortilla Chips: Provides a crunchy base and adds traditional Mexican-inspired flavor to the dish.
• Shredded Cheese: Delivers melty goodness and enhances the overall cheesy flavor of the casserole.

• Poblano Peppers, Onions: Offer a mild, slightly spicy flavor and aromatic base for the casserole.

• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the overall taste of the dish.

How to Make Chile Relleno Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment for your delicious casserole.

Step 2: Sizzle Vegetables

Heat a skillet over medium flame and transform your chopped onions and diced poblano peppers into a fragrant, tender mixture by sautéing for 5-7 minutes until they become soft and slightly translucent.

Step 3: Whip Up Egg Mixture

Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk eggs and whole milk together, creating a smooth base. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to enhance the flavor profile.

Step 4: Create Delicious Layers

• First layer: tortilla chips
• Second layer: sautéed vegetables
• Third layer: shredded cheese

Repeat the layering process to build depth and texture.

Step 5: Pour and Spread Egg Mixture

Gently pour the whisked egg mixture evenly across the layered ingredients, ensuring complete coverage.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Look for a golden-brown top and a set center, indicating your casserole is ready to devour.

Tips for Chile Relleno Casserole

• Add a dash of cumin or smoked paprika to the egg mixture for an extra flavor kick that takes this casserole from good to amazing.
• Swap poblano peppers with roasted green chiles or bell peppers to customize the dish's heat and texture according to your preference.
• Prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for maximum convenience.
• Incorporate cooked, shredded chicken or ground beef between layers to transform this into a hearty main course that satisfies bigger appetites.
• Use gluten-free tortilla chips and dairy-free cheese to make this recipe friendly for those with specific dietary restrictions.

Variations for Chile Relleno Casserole

• Vegetarian Delight: Replace poblano peppers with roasted bell peppers and add black beans for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of milk for a dairy-free option.
• Spicy Southwest Style: Incorporate chopped jalapeños, swap tortilla chips for corn tortillas, and add chorizo for extra heat and flavor.
• Low-Carb Mexican Bake: Substitute tortilla chips with cauliflower rice or zucchini slices. Use heavy cream instead of milk and add extra cheese for richness.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Use gluten-free tortilla chips or corn tortillas. Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free and check seasoning labels carefully.

Best Pairings for Chile Relleno Casserole

• Blend fresh lime, tequila, and triple sec to complement the casserole's bold chile flavors, cutting through the richness with zesty citrus notes.
• Toss mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro with a light lime-olive oil vinaigrette to balance the hearty casserole and add bright, fresh elements.
• Create a fruity sangria using red wine, diced oranges, apples, and a splash of brandy to enhance the dish's robust pepper and cheese profile.

Storage Tips for Chile Relleno Casserole

• Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or lid to maintain freshness and prevent odors from spreading.
• Wrap individual portions or entire casserole in freezer-safe plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Keep frozen for maximum 2 months. Label container with date for easy tracking.
• Place individual portion on microwave-safe plate. Heat at 50% power for 1-2 minutes, stopping midway to stir and ensure even warming. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

FAQs

• What are chile rellenos traditionally made of?

Traditional chile rellenos are roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese, coated in an egg batter, and then deep-fried. This casserole version simplifies the classic Mexican dish by layering similar ingredients in a baking dish.

• Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this a vegetarian dish by omitting any meat and using vegetable-based cheese alternatives. The recipe already focuses on peppers, eggs, cheese, and tortilla chips, making it simple to adapt.

• How spicy is this chile relleno casserole?

The spice level depends on the poblano peppers. Poblanos are generally mild with a slight heat, providing a subtle warmth without overwhelming spiciness. You can adjust the heat by choosing milder or spicier peppers.

Chile Relleno Casserole Recipe For Any Occasion

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4.8 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Spicy chile relleno casserole brings Mexican comfort straight to dinner tables with layers of cheesy, pepper-packed goodness. Hearty ingredients merge into one satisfying dish you can enjoy solo or share with friends and family.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 poblano peppers
• 2 cups shredded monterey jack and cheddar cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 4 cups tortilla chips

Supporting Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 cup black beans

Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350°F (175°C), preparing a greased baking dish for the casserole assembly.
2. Sauté chopped onions and poblano peppers in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until vegetables become tender and aromatic.
3. Whisk eggs and whole milk together in a large mixing bowl, seasoning with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
4. Create the first layer in the baking dish by spreading half of the tortilla chips across the bottom, ensuring even coverage.
5. Distribute half of the sautéed vegetable mixture over the tortilla chip base, creating a colorful and flavorful foundation.
6. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese across the vegetable layer, allowing for maximum cheese distribution.
7. Gently pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the assembled layers, ensuring complete coverage of the ingredients.
8. Transfer the casserole to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the center sets completely.
9. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, allowing the layers to stabilize and flavors to meld.

Notes

• Boost protein by adding shredded chicken or ground beef to create a heartier meal for hungry families.
• Customize heat levels by selecting mild or spicy poblano peppers based on personal taste preferences.
• Create a gluten-free version by using certified gluten-free tortilla chips and checking cheese ingredients.
• Enhance meal prep by assembling casserole ahead of time and refrigerating until ready to bake, perfect for busy weeknights.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 493 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 610 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 198 mg