Green Chili Souffle
A fluffy, cheesy green chili souffle with a hint of spice, perfect for brunch or a light dinner, appealing to cheese lovers and those craving a mild heat flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Mix grated Monterey Jack cheese, grated Cheddar or Colby cheese, and chopped green chilies; set aside.
- Beat egg whites until stiff but not dry.
- Beat egg yolks lightly.
- In a small bowl, mix together yolks, canned milk, flour, and salt.
- Put the cheese and chili mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Fork the yolk mixture into the beaten egg whites.
- Pour the egg mixture over the cheese and chilies and work in gently with a fork to fluff.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Garnish with tomato slices or serve as is.
- Let sit for 5 minutes before cutting and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter souffle, ensure your egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks but not overwhipped, which can lead to a dry texture. You can substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with Pepper Jack for added spice. If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider using a meat substitute or omitting the chilies entirely. This dish can also be customized by adding diced vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Green Chili Souffle as a delightful brunch dish alongside a fresh salad or with a side of avocado slices for creaminess. It pairs beautifully with Jello Dirt Cups for dessert, creating a fun meal for gatherings. Consider garnishing with sliced tomatoes or fresh herbs to enhance presentation.
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, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. Avoid microwaving as it may affect the souffle's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Chili Souffle contains roughly 330 calories, with 16g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value) and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 668mg per serving (29% 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 souffle ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese and chili mixture ahead and store it in the refrigerator. However, it's best to beat the egg whites just before baking to ensure the souffle rises properly. You can also bake it the night before and reheat it gently before serving.
What can I serve with the Green Chili Souffle?
This souffle is versatile and pairs well with sides like a light green salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a side of Corn And Lima Bean Casserole. You could also offer a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for added flavor.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The recipe contains flour, which is not gluten-free. However, you can easily substitute it with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or omit it entirely for a fluffy texture. Just be aware that the souffle may not rise as much without the flour.
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).