Easy Chili Relleno Casserole
Easy Chili Relleno Casserole Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine to your table, then Easy Chili Relleno Casserole is the perfect recipe for you. This casserole combines tender green chilies with creamy cheese and a flavorful egg mixture, resulting in a satisfying and simple meal that’s great for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a family dinner, or just craving something hearty, this dish will impress everyone!
Why Make This Recipe
There are several tasty reasons to try out this Easy Chili Relleno Casserole. First, it is uncomplicated and requires minimal preparation, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. The combination of cheddar and pepper jack cheeses adds a delightful creaminess and a hint of spice, which can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that works well as a main course or a side dish.
How to Make Easy Chili Relleno Casserole
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Easy Chili Relleno Casserole:
Ingredients
- 1 (27-ounce) can whole green chilis
- 1½ cups milk
- 6 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ pound cheddar cheese (grated)
- ¼ pound pepper jack cheese (grated)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Chilies: Open the can of whole green chilies and split them lengthwise. There’s no need to wash them or remove the seeds.
- Layer the Casserole: Place half of the split chilies in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the grated cheddar and pepper jack cheeses over the chilies. Repeat this process with the remaining chilies and cheeses.
- Blend the Mixture: In a blender, combine the milk, eggs, flour, salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour Over Layers: Carefully pour the blended mixture over the layered chilies and cheese in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the mixture is set and the top is golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven, slice it into squares, and serve.
How to Serve Easy Chili Relleno Casserole
This casserole can be served straight from the baking dish, making it perfect for casual family dinners. Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor. Pair it with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Easy Chili Relleno Casserole
To keep your Easy Chili Relleno Casserole fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole—just ensure it’s well covered to prevent freezer burn. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Tips to Make Easy Chili Relleno Casserole
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to substitute the cheeses with your favorites; Monterey Jack or a blend of Mexican cheeses work well too.
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutrition by including sautéed bell peppers, onions, or corn into the layers.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy more heat, add diced jalapeños to the layers for an extra kick!
Variations
- Meat Lovers: Add cooked ground beef or turkey to the chili layers for a heartier dish.
- Vegetarian: Keep it meat-free by sticking to the original ingredients and adding extra vegetables.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk and dairy-free cheeses to create a dairy-free version of this casserole.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh green chilies instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh green chilies! Just roast and peel them before adding to the casserole.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
Incorporate spicy cheese, such as hot pepper jack, or add diced jalapeños to increase the spice level.
3. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Enjoy making your Easy Chili Relleno Casserole, and relish in the delightful flavors it brings to your dining experience!
Easy Chili Relleno Casserole
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients
- 1 can 27-ounce can whole green chilis
- 1.5 cups milk
- 6 large eggs
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 pound cheddar cheese (grated)
- 0.25 pound pepper jack cheese (grated)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Open the can of whole green chilies and split them lengthwise.
- Place half of the split chilies in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the grated cheddar and pepper jack cheeses over the chilies. Repeat this process with the remaining chilies and cheeses.
Mix and Bake
- In a blender, combine the milk, eggs, flour, salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth.
- Carefully pour the blended mixture over the layered chilies and cheese in the baking dish.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the mixture is set and the top is golden brown.
Serving
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven, slice it into squares, and serve.
