Introduction
This Chile Rellenos Casserole is a delightful twist on the traditional dish, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. With roasted poblanos, savory ground beef, and a creamy egg mixture, each bite is bursting with flavor. Let’s dive into the steps to create this hearty, warming casserole!
Ingredients
- 6 large poblano peppers
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roast the poblano peppers over a flame or in the oven until charred. Place them in a plastic bag to steam for about 10 minutes. Peel and seed the peppers once cooled.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and garlic over medium heat until the beef is fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and salt to the beef mixture, then add the diced tomatoes and corn. Mix well and remove from heat.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth.
- In a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, layer half of the roasted peppers, followed by half of the beef mixture. Sprinkle half of the cheese on top.
- Pour half of the egg mixture over the layers. Repeat with the remaining peppers, beef mixture, cheese, and egg mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden on top.
- Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes or Tips
- For a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking—just increase baking time if cooking from cold.
- Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based protein for a lighter option.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve the best flavor and texture, roasting the poblano peppers adds a smoky depth to the dish. Allowing the peppers to steam in a plastic bag makes peeling them effortless, ensuring a smooth filling in your casserole.
FAQ
- Can I use different types of cheese? Yes! Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend.
- Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- How can I make this vegetarian? Substitute the ground beef with cooked black beans or lentils.
Conclusion
This Chile Rellenos Casserole is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that brings the spirit of Mexican cuisine into your home, making every meal a little more special. Enjoy every delicious bite!