Introduction
This casserole is a quick and easy way to enjoy the flavors of traditional chile rellenos without frying individual peppers. Roasted green chiles, cheese, and a lightly spiced tomato sauce bake together into a cheesy, comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
⏱️ Prep Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 40–45 minutes
🧰 Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Skillet or saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 6 roasted green chiles (Anaheim or poblano), peeled, seeded, and chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
- 1 lb ground beef or Mexican-style sausage (optional)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup milk
- Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, sour cream, or salsa
📌 Ingredient Notes
- Chiles: Roasting adds smoky flavor; canned roasted green chiles can be used for convenience.
- Cheese: Monterey Jack melts beautifully; use your favorite melty cheese.
- Meat: Can be omitted for a vegetarian version.
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Meat & Veggies
- In a skillet, cook ground beef or sausage with onion and garlic until browned.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes.
- Layer Casserole
- Spread cooked meat mixture in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Layer chopped roasted chiles over the top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly.
- Prepare Egg Mixture
- In a small bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
- Pour over the layered casserole.
- Bake
- Bake 25–30 minutes until eggs are set and top is lightly golden.
- Serve
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or salsa if desired.
- Serve hot with tortillas or rice on the side.
🧾 Nutrition Facts (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
💡 Tips
- Roast chiles ahead of time for convenience.
- Cover casserole with foil the first 15 minutes to prevent over-browning.
- Add a few tablespoons of chopped jalapeño for extra heat.
🔄 Variations
- Vegetarian: Skip meat and add black beans or corn.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo.
- Cheesy Extra: Mix in cream cheese or more shredded cheese for richness.
- Breakfast Version: Use sausage, peppers, and cheese; serve with tortillas for a brunch casserole.
