Michigan Chilies Rellenos
Michigan Chilies Rellenos are cheesy, flavorful baked dishes featuring green chilies and melted cheeses, perfect for a comforting meal or casual gathering with a crispy lettuce garnish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease two individual 2-cup casseroles.
- Combine yogurt, egg, and flour; mix until smooth.
- In another bowl, combine Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
- Place 1 ounce of cheese mixture into each casserole.
- Top with half of the chopped green chilies in each.
- Sprinkle 1 ounce of cheese mixture over each casserole.
- Pour half of the yogurt mixture into each casserole.
- Add half of the tomato sauce to each casserole.
- Top with the remaining cheese mixture.
- Bake at 350°F until puffed and edges are lightly browned, about 40 minutes.
- Turn out onto plates.
- Circle with shredded lettuce and serve with taco chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using sour cream instead of yogurt. If you prefer a bit of spice, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the yogurt mixture. You can also substitute the cheeses with pepper jack for extra heat or use a blend of cheeses you have on hand. This dish is a fantastic twist on traditional Chiles Rellenos.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Michigan Chilies Rellenos alongside a fresh salad or guacamole for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with the The Best Layered Taco Party Dip for a fun appetizer spread. Taco chips make a great crunchy side, and you can also offer a dollop of sour cream or salsa on the side for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but the oven method will help maintain the dish's puffiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Michigan Chilies Rellenos contains roughly 681 calories, with 25g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), calcium (48% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1234mg per serving (54% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casseroles in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you're ready to bake, simply remove them from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing them in the preheated oven.
What can I substitute for the green chilies?
If you don't have canned green chilies, you can use diced bell peppers for a milder flavor or sautéed poblano peppers for a bit more heat. Fresh roasted green chilies can also be used if available, giving a wonderful smoky taste to your dish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. The combination of cheeses and chilies provides a satisfying and flavorful dish. For those following a vegan diet, you could try substituting the egg with a flaxseed egg and using plant-based yogurt and cheeses.
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).