Chile Rellenos Casserole
Chile Rellenos Casserole is a delightful Mexican-inspired dish that combines the bold flavors of chiles with a creamy, cheesy filling. This casserole is a great way to enjoy the classic flavors of traditional chile rellenos without the hassle of individually stuffing and frying the peppers. While the exact origins of this dish are not known, chile rellenos themselves have a rich history in Mexican cuisine, dating back to the Spanish colonial era. The combination of charred chiles and a decadent filling makes this casserole a true crowd-pleaser.
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Ingredients for the Ultimate Chile Rellenos Casserole
Essential Ingredients
To create the perfect Chile Rellenos Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
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| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large poblano peppers | 7 |
| Milk | 1.5 cups |
| Large eggs | 5 |
| Freshly shredded Monterey Jack cheese | 2 cups (divided) |
| Freshly shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup (divided) |
| All-purpose flour | 3 tablespoons |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
These ingredients come together to create a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying, with a creamy texture and a hint of spice.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the broiler: Position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with foil.
- Char the peppers: Place the poblano peppers on the baking sheet and broil them for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skins are charred and blistered.
- Steam and peel the peppers: Transfer the charred peppers to a sealed plastic bag and let them steam for 10 minutes. After steaming, peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and discard the stems.
Assembly
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 3-quart casserole dish.
- Layer the ingredients: Arrange half of the prepared chiles in the bottom of the casserole dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese and 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the chiles. Repeat the layering with the remaining chiles and cheeses.
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture: Evenly pour the egg mixture over the layered chiles and cheese in the casserole dish.
Baking
- Bake the casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is set.
- Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve with a dollop of sour cream, your favorite salsa, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Traditional Mexican Sides
To complete your meal, consider pairing the Chile Rellenos Casserole with classic Mexican sides such as:
- Mexican Rice: A flavorful side dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices.
- Refried Beans: Creamy and savory beans that complement the rich flavors of the casserole.
Fresh and Light Accompaniments
For a refreshing contrast, serve the casserole with a fresh salad featuring:
- Avocado, Corn, and Tomato Salad: A vibrant salad dressed with a tangy lime vinaigrette.
- Simple Greens: Mixed greens tossed with a light citrus dressing.
Additional Toppings
To enhance the richness of the dish, add toppings such as:
- Sour Cream: A cool and creamy addition that balances the heat of the chiles.
- Salsa: Choose from roasted tomato salsa, tomatillo salsa, or your favorite store-bought variety.
