Aunt Ada'S Chili Rellenos Casserole
A flavorful casserole combining roasted green chilies and three melted cheeses, topped with tomato sauce—perfect for cheesy, spicy comfort food lovers and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the chilies; remove seeds and pat dry.
- In a 13 x 9-inch baking dish sprayed with Pam, layer the chilies and a portion of the cheeses.
- Repeat the layers, but save 3/4 cup of cheese for topping.
- Beat the eggs; add flour and evaporated milk.
- Beat until blended.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered chilies and cheese.
- The casserole can be refrigerated at this point if desired.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Spread tomato sauce evenly over the top and sprinkle with the reserved cheese.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using a mix of regular and spicy jalapenos. If you can't find evaporated milk, whole milk can be used as a substitute, but the texture may vary slightly. Layering the cheeses in this casserole not only improves flavor but also helps with melting. Make sure to pat the chilies dry to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone but pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a side of Mexican rice. For a complete meal, serve alongside Tex-Mex Dip or Hot Mexican Corn Bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Ada'S Chili Rellenos Casserole contains roughly 650 calories, with 21g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (57% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1093mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I use instead of Monterey Jack cheese?
If Monterey Jack isn't available, you can substitute it with a mild cheese like Gouda or Havarti. These alternatives will still provide a creamy texture while complementing the spicy jalapeno Jack cheese and Cheddar used in the recipe.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this casserole is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. It is packed with flavorful cheeses and green chilies, making it a great option for those following a vegetarian diet. For even more vegetarian recipes, consider browsing our collection for additional ideas.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).