Ah, the wonderful world of casseroles! There is something utterly delightful about this method of cooking. Casseroles can be simple yet comforting, often bringing family and friends together around the dining table. Today, we are diving into a splendid dish known as Chili Relleno Casserole. It offers a delicious twist on the beloved classic Mexican recipe, featuring layers of green chilies, ground beef, and cheese. The amalgamation of all these flavors creates a hearty meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why Make This Recipe
First and foremost, what better way to please a crowd than with a fabulously easy casserole? Whether you are hosting a festive brunch or a cozy family dinner, this Chili Relleno Casserole shines as a perfect choice. It combines familiar flavors and common ingredients in a way that feels both comforting and satisfying. Plus, you can prepare it ahead of time, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen when it matters most!
Moreover, the layers of green chilies and seasoned meat provide a delightful complexity that elevates this dish beyond your average casserole. The creamy cheese and fluffy egg topping add just the right amount of richness, making each bite a taste of heaven. When baked to golden perfection, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting experience that warms the soul.
Lastly, this recipe presents an opportunity to get a bit creative! With its foundation set in traditional ingredients, you can easily add your own flair. Perhaps some black beans or fresh cilantro for an extra kick. The adaptability of this dish means that you can make it your own, catering to personal preferences or dietary needs. Who wouldn’t want a recipe that invites a bit of innovation?
How to Make Chili Relleno Casserole
Ingredients:
27 ounces green chilies (1 can, whole chilies, preferably Hatch brand)
1 1⁄2 pounds ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
1 pound grated cheese (Monterey Jack or white cheddar)
12 corn tortillas
16 ounces refried beans
4 eggs, beaten well
1⁄4 cup flour
1⁄2 cup evaporated milk
2 teaspoons hot sauce
1⁄4 teaspoon paprika
1⁄4 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray and set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, flour, evaporated milk, hot sauce, paprika, onion powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat along with the chopped onions until the onions are soft and the meat is browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Next, add the refried beans to the skillet with the ground beef and mix until fully incorporated.
Cut the tortillas into 1-inch wide strips. Layer half of the tortilla strips in the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
Now, arrange half of the green chilies evenly over the tortilla strips, followed by half of the grated cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla strips, green chilies, and cheese.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Spread the meat and bean mixture over the egg mixture.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the casserole.
Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
Finally, serve hot and enjoy this comforting and flavorful Chili Relleno Casserole!
How to Serve Chili Relleno Casserole
Serving the Chili Relleno Casserole is a delightful affair! Once it comes out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This brief moment allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to cut into perfect squares. Use a sharp knife to slice the casserole into portions.
Pair it with a side of fresh salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for a lovely garnish. These toppings not only add a lovely contrast to the warm casserole but also provide an additional layer of flavor that enhances the overall dish. You may also consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Finally, gather everyone around the table and let them enjoy the warmth and flavors this dish brings. Watching friends and family delight in a home-cooked meal filled with love and care is one of life’s greatest pleasures.
Additional Tips:
If you prefer a spicier dish, consider using spicy green chilies or adding jalapeños to the meat mixture.
This casserole can be easily prepared ahead of time. Assemble everything and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time!
Feel free to swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten it up.
Nutrition Facts:
The nutrition facts will vary based on ingredient brands and the specifics of the portions you serve. However, this dish is packed with protein and offers a balance of fiber from the beans and healthy fats from the cheese.
FAQ Section
Can I substitute any ingredients?
Absolutely! You may use corn tortillas in place of flour tortillas or even skip the meat for a vegetarian version.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it up tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
How long will it last in the fridge?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator.
Chili Relleno Casserole
So there you have it! A straightforward yet flavorful recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home. Dive in and create this charming Chili Relleno Casserole, and enjoy the collective warmth it brings to your table!
PrintChili Relleno Casserole
Ingredients
27 ounces green chilies (1 can, whole chilies, preferably Hatch brand)
1 1⁄2 pounds ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
1 pound grated cheese (Monterey Jack or white cheddar)
12 corn tortillas
16 ounces refried beans
4 eggs, beaten well
1⁄4 cup flour
1⁄2 cup evaporated milk
2 teaspoons hot sauce
1⁄4 teaspoon paprika
1⁄4 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray and set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, flour, evaporated milk, hot sauce, paprika, onion powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat along with the chopped onions until the onions are soft and the meat is browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Next, add the refried beans to the skillet with the ground beef and mix until fully incorporated.
Cut the tortillas into 1-inch wide strips. Layer half of the tortilla strips in the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
Now, arrange half of the green chilies evenly over the tortilla strips, followed by half of the grated cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla strips, green chilies, and cheese.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Spread the meat and bean mixture over the egg mixture.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the casserole.
Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
Finally, serve hot and enjoy this comforting and flavorful Chili Relleno Casserole!
Leave a Comment