Chiles Rellenos Casserole
A comforting casserole combining seasoned ground beef, roasted green chiles, and melted Cheddar cheese, layered with a savory egg and milk mixture. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a flavorful blend of spice and richness that satisfies and warms everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet, stirring to crumble the beef; drain well.
- Stir in 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, then set aside.
- Arrange the halved and seeded green chiles in a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the chiles.
- In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, 1 1/4 cups milk, beaten eggs, and 1 1/2 cups milk; whisk until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture over the cheese and chiles.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes, until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you're out of green chiles, roasted red peppers can work as a substitute, but will alter the flavor slightly. This dish can also be made vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding black beans instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican rice or a crisp green salad. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a side of guacamole for extra creaminess. This dish is perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are warm throughout.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chiles Rellenos Casserole contains roughly 487 calories, with 19g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1700mg per serving (74% 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 Chiles Rellenos Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven. This allows for even baking and helps to avoid a cold center.
What can I use if I can't find whole green chiles?
If whole green chiles are unavailable, you can use canned diced green chiles or even fresh poblano peppers. If using fresh, roast and peel them before adding to the casserole. The flavor will differ slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Can I freeze Chiles Rellenos Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes for a quick meal on busy nights.
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).