Quick Chili Relleno
Quick Chili Relleno offers a cheesy, flavorful, and comforting dish with a spicy kick from green chilies. Baked with melted Monterey Jack cheese and stewed tomatoes, it's perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or casual gathering, appealing to cheese lovers and those craving bold Mexican-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 1-quart baking dish.
- Place half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese in the baking dish.
- Cover the cheese with the diced green chilies.
- Pour the beaten eggs over the cheese and chilies.
- Add the stewed tomatoes on top.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly brown.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika. You can substitute Monterey Jack with Cheddar for a sharper taste. If you prefer a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This dish is versatile; for a vegetarian twist, serve it with a side of Cottage Cheese And Salsa Spread to balance the richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Quick Chili Relleno with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added freshness. It pairs nicely with a side of Mexican Hot Chocolate for a comforting meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving with a simple salad or some warm tortillas to scoop up the cheesy goodness.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Chili Relleno contains roughly 310 calories, with 8g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 882mg per serving (38% 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 use fresh green chilies instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh green chilies. Roast and peel them before adding to the dish. This will enhance the flavor and add a nice smokiness. Just remember to adjust the quantity based on your heat preference, as fresh chilies can vary in spiciness.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the Quick Chili Relleno. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake until warmed through.
What can I serve as a side dish?
Consider serving a refreshing avocado salad or some Mexican rice as a side. Both complement the flavors of the Quick Chili Relleno well. For a fun twist, try serving it with some crispy tortilla chips for added crunch and texture.
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).