Chili Relleno Casserole A Flavorful Mexican-Inspired Dish
Chili Relleno Casserole is a mouthwatering Mexican-inspired dish that combines the smoky richness of roasted poblano peppers with layers of gooey cheese and a fluffy egg batter. It’s a comforting casserole that captures the essence of traditional chili rellenos without the hassle of frying individual peppers. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, Chili Relleno Casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
As you embark on making Chili Relleno Casserole, imagine the enticing aroma of roasted poblanos filling your kitchen, the anticipation of digging into layers of cheese and fluffy egg, and the joy of sharing this hearty dish with loved ones. Visualize the smiles on their faces as they savor the bold and comforting flavors. Let’s dive into the world of Mexican-inspired cuisine and create this irresistible casserole together.
Ingredients:
A Collection of Ingredients for Chili Relleno Casserole
For the Casserole:
- 4-5 large poblano peppers
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese or Mexican cheese blend
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
For Garnish (Optional):
- Salsa, for serving
- Sour cream, for serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
Create Chili Relleno Casserole Bliss
1. Roasting the Poblano Peppers:
- Preheat your broiler to high. Place the poblano peppers on a baking sheet and broil them, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred and blistered, which should take about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can char the peppers over an open flame on a gas stove. Once charred, transfer the peppers to a sealed plastic bag and let them steam for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to peel off the skin. After steaming, peel, seed, and slice the roasted peppers into strips.
2. Preparing the Casserole Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Layering the Casserole:
- In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the roasted poblano pepper strips, followed by half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat with the remaining peppers and cheese.
4. Mixing the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and ground cumin until well combined.
5. Pouring Over the Layers:
- Pour the egg batter evenly over the layered peppers and cheese in the baking dish. Make sure it covers the entire casserole.
6. Baking to Perfection:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and set in the center.
7. Resting and Serving:
- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
8. Garnishing (Optional):
- Serve your Chili Relleno Casserole with a drizzle of salsa, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for extra flavor and freshness.
Tips and Variations:
Elevate Your Chili Relleno Casserole Experience
Tips:
- You can add diced cooked ham, crumbled cooked bacon, or cooked sausage to the casserole for extra protein and flavor.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Make a vegetarian version by omitting any meat and adding sautéed onions and bell peppers to the layers for added texture and flavor.
Pairing Suggestion: Chili Relleno Casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of refried beans and Mexican rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Storage and Enjoyment: Store any leftover Chili Relleno Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the oven or microwave for a delicious leftover meal.
Cook’s Note: Chili Relleno Casserole is a celebration of bold Mexican flavors and comforting layers of cheese and egg. As you savor each bite, take pride in the way you’ve transformed roasted poblanos into a hearty and flavorful dish. This casserole isn’t just about taste; it’s a tribute to the joy of Mexican cuisine. Share it with friends and family, embrace the bold and comforting flavors, and enjoy the experience of making and enjoying this delightful Mexican-inspired creation.
