Aunt Ruthie'S Chili Relleno Casserole

Prep: 10 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: Mexican

A cheesy, flavorful chili relleno casserole featuring green chilies, cheddar, Jack cheese, and a creamy egg mixture, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 2 (7 oz.) cans green chilies, split, rinsed and seed removed
  • 1/2 lb. grated Cheddar cheese
  • 1 large can evaporated milk
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 small can tomato sauce
  • 1/2 lb. grated Jack cheese
  • 2 Tbsp. flour

Instructions

  1. Grease a square casserole pan.
  2. Layer the casserole with Jack cheese followed by Cheddar cheese.
  3. In a bowl, add flour and evaporated milk to beaten eggs and blend well.
  4. Pour the egg mixture over the cheese layers in the casserole.
  5. Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.
  6. Top with tomato sauce and heat through before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding diced onions or bell peppers to the cheese layers. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace the cheeses with a dairy-free alternative and use almond milk instead of evaporated milk. To make it spicier, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. This dish also pairs well with a side of Tortillos for added crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chili relleno casserole with a side of fresh guacamole or a crisp salad to balance its richness. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of sour cream and fresh salsa on top. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Mexican recipes like Fried Pinto Bean Patties or a side of Quick Mexican Dip for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but be sure to cover the dish to prevent drying out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Aunt Ruthie'S Chili Relleno Casserole contains roughly 474 calories, with 13g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (33% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 736mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).

474 kcal 24% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 12.8g 26% DV
Total Fat 13.8g 18% DV
Carbs 75.6g 28% DV
Fiber 0.7g 2% DV
Sugar 18.5g 37% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 736.3mg 32% DV
Potassium 440.5mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 119.9mg 40% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 176.8mcg 20% DV
Vitamin C 10.4mg 12% DV
Vitamin D 0.7mcg 4% DV
Calcium 432.1mg 33% DV
Iron 4mg 22% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 use fresh chilies instead of canned?

Yes, using fresh chilies is a great option! You can roast and peel them, then slice them open and remove the seeds before layering them in the casserole. Fresh chilies will add a wonderful texture and flavor to the dish.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make the casserole gluten-free, simply replace the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch. Ensure that all other ingredients, particularly the canned goods, are labeled gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed until heated through.

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).

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