Chile Relleno Casserole
A comforting and cheesy baked casserole featuring layers of roasted poblano peppers and melted cheese, all held together by a light, savory egg custard. This easy, deconstructed version of a classic Mexican-inspired dish is perfect for brunch or dinner.
For 6 servings
5 steps. 40 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Roast and Prepare the Poblano Peppers
- b.Position an oven rack about 6 inches from the broiler element and set the broiler to high.
- c.Place the poblano peppers on a foil-lined baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes per side, turning with tongs, until the skin is blackened and blistered all over.
- d.Immediately transfer the hot peppers to a heatproof bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap, or place them in a paper bag and seal. Let them steam for 15 minutes to loosen the skins.
- e.Once cool enough to handle, use your fingers or a paper towel to peel off the charred skin. Make a slit down the side of each pepper and carefully remove the seeds and veins. Pat the peppers dry.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Assemble the Casserole Layers
- b.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.
- c.Arrange half of the roasted and cleaned peppers in a single, even layer to cover the bottom of the dish.
- d.Sprinkle half of the Monterey Jack cheese and half of the cheddar cheese evenly over the peppers.
- e.Top with the remaining peppers in another layer, followed by the rest of the cheese.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare the Egg Custard
- b.In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until they are light and frothy, about 1 minute.
- c.Whisk in the evaporated milk until combined. Then, add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cumin powder. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Bake the Casserole
- b.Gently and evenly pour the egg mixture over the cheese and pepper layers in the baking dish.
- c.Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, the top is golden brown, and the center is set (it should have only a slight jiggle). A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the casserole to set, ensuring cleaner slices.
- c.Cut into six equal portions and serve warm with your favorite toppings like salsa, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Wear disposable gloves when handling the roasted peppers to avoid skin irritation from capsaicin.
- 2For a smokier flavor, roast the peppers on a grill instead of under the broiler.
- 3Don't skip the resting period after baking; it's essential for the casserole to set properly.
- 4To save time, you can use two 7-ounce cans of whole green chiles. Drain them well and pat them dry before layering.
- 5Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best 'puff' in the egg custard.
- 6For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheeses like Oaxaca, Asadero, or a Mexican blend.
Adapt it for your goals.
Meaty Version
Add a layer of cooked ground beef, chorizo, or shredded chicken between the pepper layers for a heartier meal.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Add a finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the egg mixture, or use a spicy pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack.
Lighter VersionLighter Version
Use reduced-fat cheese and skim evaporated milk to lower the calorie and fat content. You can also use a mix of whole eggs and egg whites.
Corn and Black Bean VersionCorn and Black Bean Version
Sprinkle a cup of cooked corn and a cup of rinsed black beans over the first layer of cheese for added texture and fiber.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Protein
With a generous amount of eggs and cheese, this casserole is packed with protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Rich in Calcium
The cheese and evaporated milk provide a significant amount of calcium, a vital mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as proper nerve and muscle function.
Source of Vitamin C
Poblano peppers are a good source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and helps protect cells from damage.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this Chile Relleno Casserole contains approximately 520-550 calories, depending on the exact brands of cheese and milk used.