Name: Delicious Chile Relleno Casserole for Family Gatherings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cans whole green chiles (7 oz each); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 4 large eggs; 1 ½ cups whole milk; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; Sour cream and chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Chile Relleno Casserole is a cozy, oven-baked twist on the classic Mexican chile relleno. This dish combines roasted green chiles, melty cheese, and a light, fluffy egg batter into a satisfying meal. Whether it’s for brunch, dinner, or a potluck, this casserole is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich flavors and cheesy goodness. Best of all, it’s incredibly simple to prepare without any frying required, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Chile Relleno Casserole

This Chile Relleno Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. Here are a few reasons why it stands out:

Family-friendly and perfect for gatherings.
Loaded with cheese for a rich, comforting flavor.
Can be made vegetarian or adapted for meat lovers.
Quick and straightforward, great for beginners.
Perfect for meal prep; make it ahead and reheat.
Works as a main dish or a side for your favorite Mexican meals.
Full of nutrients with the inclusion of chiles and eggs.
Can easily be made gluten-free with alternative flour options.

This dish embodies the essence of a traditional Mexican meal, making it a favorite for both casual dinners and festive occasions.

Ingredients for Chile Relleno Casserole

Gather these items:

2 cans whole green chiles (7 oz each)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
4 large eggs
1 ½ cups whole milk
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Sour cream and chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

How to Make Chile Relleno Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Drain and pat dry the green chiles. Lay half flat in the dish to cover the bottom.
Step 3: Sprinkle 1 cup of cheddar and 1 cup of Monterey Jack over the chiles.
Step 4: Add the remaining chiles as the second layer. Top with the rest of the cheese.
Step 5: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
Step 6: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered chiles and cheese.
Step 7: Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes or until golden and set.
Step 8: Let rest for 5–10 minutes. Slice and serve with sour cream and cilantro if desired.

Delicious Chile Relleno Casserole for Family Gatherings - Chile Relleno Casserole - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chile Relleno Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for brunch, dinner, or potlucks.
No frying required, making it a healthier option.
Be sure to drain the chiles well to avoid a soggy casserole.
Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the egg mixture.

Best Ways to Serve Chile Relleno Casserole

Enjoy this casserole in several delightful ways:

Serve it hot, straight from the oven, with a dollop of sour cream.
Pair it with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Top with fresh avocado slices and diced tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Chile Relleno Casserole

To store leftovers, place the casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This dish is excellent for meal prep, making it easy to have a delicious meal ready at your fingertips.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chile Relleno Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Chile Relleno Casserole?

The secret lies in the quality of the ingredients and ensuring that your chiles are well-drained. This prevents excess moisture, keeping the casserole fluffy and intact.

Can I make Chile Relleno Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chile Relleno Casserole?

Common mistakes include not draining the chiles properly and overbaking. Keep an eye on it in the oven to ensure it’s golden but not dry.

Variations of Chile Relleno Casserole You Can Try

Feel free to customize your casserole with these variations:

Make a vegetarian Chile Relleno Bake by adding black beans and corn.
For a low-carb option, substitute flour with almond flour.
Include ground beef or shredded chicken for a hearty Chili Relleno Dish.
Try a slow cooker Chile Relleno Casserole recipe for an easy meal with minimal prep.

Delicious Chile Relleno Casserole for Family Gatherings - Chile Relleno Casserole - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our small batch apple pumpkin muffins or crumbl caramel apple cookies. If you’re looking for a hearty meal, try our loaded chicken nachos feast or mini pistachio tartlets recipe. For dessert, don’t miss our molten lava chocolate cake recipe.

For more information on the health benefits of chiles, you can visit Healthline.