Cheesy and Flavorful Chili Relleno Casserole: A Comforting Mexican Delight

Craving a dish that brings the rich and authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine to your table? Look no further than Chili Relleno Casserole.

>>>Get the Recipe in Details: Chili Relleno Casserole

This delightful recipe transforms the classic chili relleno into a hearty and cheesy casserole that's easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any occasion where you want to indulge in some serious comfort food.

Chili Relleno CasserolePhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Ingredients:

• 6 large poblano peppers, roasted, peeled, and seeded
• 1 lb. ground beef or chorizo (optional for added protein)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
• 1 can (4 oz.) diced green chilies (optional for extra heat)
• Salsa and sour cream for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Poblanos:
2. • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the poblano peppers on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred and blistered. Remove from the oven and place the peppers in a sealed plastic bag to steam for about 10 minutes. Peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and slice the peppers into strips.
3. Cook the Meat (if using):
4. • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or chorizo over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
5. Preheat the Oven:
6. • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
7. Layer the Casserole:
8. • In the prepared baking dish, lay half of the roasted poblano strips in an even layer. If using, add a layer of the cooked meat mixture. Sprinkle half of the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese over the meat and peppers. Repeat the layers with the remaining peppers, meat, and cheese.
9. Prepare the Batter:
10. • In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, all-purpose flour, ground cumin, ground paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth. If you want extra heat, stir in the diced green chilies.
11. Pour and Bake:
12. • Pour the batter evenly over the layered peppers and cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden brown on top.
13. Serve:
14. • Let the Chili Relleno Casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with salsa and sour cream if desired. Enjoy this cheesy, flavorful delight!

The Allure of Chili Relleno Casserole

Chili Relleno Casserole captures the essence of traditional chili rellenos but simplifies the preparation process, making it an ideal choice for home cooks. The roasted poblano peppers provide a mild, smoky heat that complements the cheesy filling perfectly. Whether you're adding ground beef or chorizo for extra heartiness or keeping it vegetarian, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that's sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Customizing Your Chili Relleno Casserole

While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize your Chili Relleno Casserole to suit your taste:

1. Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, queso fresco, or even a sharp white cheddar for a unique flavor twist.
2. Protein Options: Besides ground beef or chorizo, you can use shredded chicken, turkey, or even ground pork. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat or add black beans and corn.
3. Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more diced green chilies, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce.
4. Vegetable Additions: Enhance the nutritional value by adding vegetables like sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
5. Serving Suggestions: Pair the casserole with a fresh green salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans for a complete meal.