Chili Relleno Casserole

The Chili Relleno Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish inspired by the classic Mexican stuffed peppers. Instead of the traditional method of filling individual poblanos, this casserole layers smoky roasted peppers with seasoned ground beef, rice, and melted cheese, creating an easy-to-make, hearty meal perfect for any occasion. The blend of spices and roasted peppers gives a subtle heat and deep flavor that makes every bite satisfying.

This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want bold, comforting flavors without the fuss of peeling and stuffing each pepper. The creamy, cheesy egg mixture binds the ingredients together, giving it a light custard texture that complements the robust fillings. It’s a delicious way to enjoy the beloved flavors of chile rellenos in a simplified, bake-and-serve form.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 6 large poblano peppers

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup cooked rice

• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)

• 4 large eggs

• 1 cup milk

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Roast the poblano peppers under the broiler or on a grill until the skins are charred. Place in a covered bowl to steam for 10 minutes, then peel off the skins, remove seeds, and chop into bite-sized pieces.

3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

4. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the beef; cook until softened.

5. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.

6. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, flour, and baking powder until smooth.

7. Fold in the chopped roasted poblano peppers and half of the shredded cheese.

8. Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

9. Pour the egg and pepper mixture over the beef, then sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top.

10. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.

11. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 60 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 6

The Story Behind Chili Relleno Casserole

Chili Relleno Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic Mexican dish known as chile rellenos, which traditionally features poblano peppers stuffed with cheese, then battered and fried. This casserole version simplifies the process by combining all the key flavors and ingredients into a single dish that’s easier to prepare and share. It brings the smoky, spicy essence of roasted poblano peppers together with seasoned ground beef, rice, and a rich cheese custard baked until golden and bubbly.

The original chile relleno has roots tracing back to Mexico, where stuffed peppers have been a beloved dish for centuries. Poblano peppers are particularly favored for their mild to medium heat and their rich, earthy flavor that enhances any recipe. The casserole adapts this heritage into a modern, convenient meal that preserves the authentic taste while offering the comfort and ease of a one-dish bake.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

What makes this casserole truly special is how it captures the essence of traditional chile rellenos without the usual frying step, which can be time-consuming and messy. By roasting the poblanos to bring out their smoky flavor and layering them with savory ground beef and fluffy rice, this recipe builds complex layers of texture and taste.

The addition of a creamy egg and cheese mixture binds the casserole together with a silky, custard-like consistency that balances the spice and adds richness. The melted Mexican blend cheese on top adds a golden, gooey finish that makes this dish irresistible.

This casserole is adaptable too it’s great for meal prep, reheats beautifully, and can easily be doubled for larger gatherings. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that offers a hearty, protein-packed meal perfect for cooler evenings or anytime you want a flavorful, comforting dinner.

Health Benefits of the Key Ingredients

While indulgent in flavor, this casserole also offers nutritional benefits from its wholesome ingredients. Poblano peppers, the star of the dish, are low in calories but rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants that support immune health and skin vitality. They also contain capsaicin, which has been studied for its potential metabolism-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.

Ground beef provides a good source of protein and essential minerals like iron and zinc, important for energy and immune function. Using lean ground beef can reduce saturated fat content, making the dish healthier without compromising on flavor. Rice offers carbohydrates for energy, and by using brown rice as a substitution, you can add fiber and nutrients to further enhance the dish.

The eggs and cheese contribute calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance. The combination of these ingredients makes this casserole a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and carbs.

Reasons to Love This Chili Relleno Casserole

There are many reasons why this recipe is a favorite for home cooks:

• Convenience: It cuts down the effort of making individual stuffed peppers by baking everything in one dish.
• Flavor: The roasted poblanos provide smoky depth, while the seasoned beef and spices add warmth and heartiness.
• Versatility: You can tweak the spice level by adjusting chili powder or add other vegetables like corn or black beans for more texture and nutrition.
• Comfort Food: The cheesy custard topping is creamy and indulgent, making it a perfect dish to cozy up with on a chilly evening.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This casserole holds up well for leftovers, making it ideal for batch cooking or packed lunches.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a great way to introduce the flavors of Mexican cuisine to kids and picky eaters in a familiar baked dish format.

Tips for Making the Best Chili Relleno Casserole

To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Roast the Poblanos Well: Don’t rush the roasting and peeling. Properly charred skins add smoky flavor, but the skin can be tough, so steaming them in a covered bowl after roasting makes peeling easier.
• Season the Meat: Don’t skimp on seasoning the ground beef with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This base layer sets the tone for the whole dish.
• Balance the Moisture: The egg and milk custard should be smooth and pourable but not too thin. This mixture helps bind the casserole and create a creamy texture.
• Cheese Choices: Use a good quality Mexican blend cheese or Monterey Jack for melty, creamy texture. You can add some sharp cheddar for tang or pepper jack for heat.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit a few minutes after baking so it can set and slice neatly.
• Customize Your Heat: For more spice, add diced jalapeños or use a spicier cheese blend.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Chili Relleno Casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes to round out your meal:

• Fresh Salsa or Pico de Gallo: The bright acidity of fresh tomato salsa complements the rich casserole.
• Mexican Rice or Cilantro Lime Rice: Add extra rice on the side for a complete Tex-Mex experience.
• Guacamole or Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado adds freshness and healthy fats.
• Black Beans or Refried Beans: Adds fiber and an authentic touch.
• Simple Salad: A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette can balance the richness.
• Sour Cream or Crema: Dollop on top for extra creaminess and a cooling effect.
• Tortilla Chips or Warm Corn Tortillas: Great for scooping or mopping up every bite.

Variations to Try

This casserole is a fantastic base recipe to get creative:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or lentils for a hearty vegetarian casserole.
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped chipotle peppers or cayenne pepper for a smoky heat.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with queso fresco or feta for different flavor profiles.
• Grain Swaps: Use quinoa or cauliflower rice to lower carbs or add nutritional variety.
• Add Corn or Zucchini: Mix in extra veggies to boost fiber and add color.

Conclusion

Chili Relleno Casserole is a wonderful example of taking a beloved traditional dish and making it accessible, convenient, and versatile for modern cooks. Its smoky roasted poblanos, savory meat and rice filling, and creamy cheese custard come together for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s sure to please family and guests alike.

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or a comforting meal to warm you on cooler nights, this casserole fits the bill perfectly. It offers a fantastic balance of flavors, textures, and nutrition, plus plenty of room for customization based on your preferences or dietary needs.

Embrace this casserole as your go-to recipe for bold Mexican flavors without the fuss, and enjoy the delicious results that bring a taste of tradition and comfort to your table.