Chili Rellenos Squares
Creamy, cheesy chili rellenos squares with green chilies layered with melted Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses, baked to perfection—ideal for parties or casual family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter an 8-inch square dish.
- Mix the Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses together.
- Layer with cheese, green chilies sliced lengthwise; repeat layers.
- Mix eggs, milk, and flour; pour over the cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle lightly with cayenne pepper, if desired.
- Bake at 375°F for 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or chopped onions to the cheese layers. You can substitute the Monterey Jack with pepper jack for a spicier flavor. If you want a lighter version, use egg whites instead of whole eggs. Ensure the chilies are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the dish, which can affect the texture.
Serving Suggestions
Chili Rellenos Squares are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or Mexican rice. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Easy Mexican Lasagna or Layered Ranchers Dip for a festive gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, but the oven will help maintain the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Rellenos Squares contains roughly 578 calories, with 34g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (68% of the Daily Value), protein (67% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1075mg per serving (47% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of green chilies?
If you can't find whole green chilies, you can use canned diced green chiles or even roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid in the dish.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Chili Rellenos Squares are entirely vegetarian, making them a great choice for vegetarian recipes. Just ensure that the cheeses you use are suitable for your dietary preferences, as some cheeses may contain animal rennet.
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).