Chilies Rellenos With Marinara Sauce
Cheesy chilies Rellenos with a flavorful marinara sauce combine mild green chilies, sharp cheeses, and a baked egg batter, creating a delightful dish perfect for comfort and entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Divide Jack cheese evenly among the green chilies, folding or tucking the cheese inside.
- Arrange the stuffed chilies side by side in the bottom of a greased shallow 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat eggs until thick and foamy; add milk and baking powder.
- Continue beating until the batter is smooth as possible.
- Pour the egg batter evenly over the chilies, moistening all of them.
- Sprinkle shredded sharp Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F for about 30 minutes until golden and set.
- Garnish with pitted ripe black olives.
- Just before serving, top with heated marinara sauce or serve the sauce on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some spices like cumin or paprika into the egg batter. If you don't have Jack cheese, mozzarella or pepper jack can work as substitutes. Ensure the chilies are well-stuffed to prevent them from drying out during baking. Pair this dish with a refreshing salad or serve alongside your favorite Mexican recipes for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chilies Rellenos hot, garnished with black olives and accompanied by a side of heated marinara sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some corn tortillas. For a fun twist, try serving it as part of a larger spread with Finger Burritos or Quick 'N Tasty Nacho Dip for a delicious gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven will help maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chilies Rellenos With Marinara Sauce contains roughly 721 calories, with 21g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (44% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 839mg per serving (36% 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 stuffed chilies and the egg batter in advance. Assemble them in the baking dish and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to remove the wrap before baking and adjust the cooking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the marinara sauce?
If you're looking for alternatives to marinara sauce, you could use salsa, a homemade tomato sauce, or even a creamy cheese sauce for a different flavor profile. Each option will bring a unique twist to the dish while still complementing the flavors of the chilies.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Chilies Rellenos. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven.
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).