Puffy Chile Relleno Casserole
A fluffy, cheesy casserole with green chiles, layered with tortillas and fresh tomato slices, perfect for a flavorful Mexican-inspired meal suited for gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove and discard seeds from chiles; lay half the chiles in the bottom of a well-greased 9-inch square baking dish.
- Layer with half the tortilla strips and half the shredded Jack cheese.
- Arrange tomato slices on top of the layers.
- Repeat the layers with remaining chiles, tortillas, and cheese.
- Bake until the casserole is bubbly and cheese is melted, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using roasted green chiles or adding diced onions and bell peppers between the layers. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute half of the Jack cheese with low-fat cheese. You can also use flour tortillas instead of corn if preferred. For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. This dish can also be customized with leftover meats, similar to the Mccarrick'S Chicken Enchilada Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra layer of flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside the 8 Layer Bean Dip as an appetizer. This dish also makes for great brunch fare, accompanied by fresh fruit or a spicy salsa.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking to ensure it's heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Puffy Chile Relleno Casserole contains roughly 707 calories, with 31g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (119% of the Daily Value), and potassium (67% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 696mg per serving (30% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when served.
What can I use instead of Jack cheese?
If Jack cheese isn't available, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend of cheeses. Each will provide a slightly different flavor profile, but all will complement the chiles well. For a lighter option, consider using low-fat cheese.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
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).