Introduction
If you’re looking for a cozy dish that brings a taste of Mexico to your table, this Chile Rellenos Casserole is just the ticket! Bursting with flavor and easily assembled, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Imagine layers of roasted poblano peppers, hearty beef, and a blanket of cheesy goodness, all baked to perfection. Let’s dive into this hearty recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 6 large poblano peppers
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roast the poblano peppers over an open flame until the skin is charred. Place in a bag to steam for 10 minutes, then peel the skins.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Beat the eggs and milk together in a bowl.
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the roasted peppers.
- Spread the beef mixture over the layers of peppers, followed by half of the shredded cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Top with the remaining roasted peppers and the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the egg is set and the cheese is bubbly.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes or Tips
- For added heat, consider using spicy diced tomatoes or jalapeños.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time; simply assemble and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables or different types of cheese!
Cooking Techniques
To achieve the best flavor in your Chile Rellenos Casserole, roasting the poblano peppers is key. This step caramelizes the sugars and enhances the natural smokiness of the peppers, giving your dish an extra layer of complexity that pairs beautifully with the savory beef and creamy cheese.
FAQ
- Can I make this casserole vegetarian? Yes, substitute ground beef with a plant-based protein or simply use more beans.
- What can I serve with this dish? Consider pairing it with a side salad or some Mexican rice for a complete meal.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure to use an airtight container.
Conclusion
This Chile Rellenos Casserole is a delightful way to enjoy traditional flavors in a modern, easy-to-make format. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table. Dig in and enjoy the comforting warmth of this savory dish!