Julie’s Easy Chile Relleno Casserole is a nostalgic dish that transcends generations, originating from a cherished family recipe box dating back to the 1980s. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, this delectable casserole combines the comforting flavors of cheese, eggs, and mild green chilies. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cook time of 1 hour, it’s a convenient option for those seeking a satisfying meal with minimal effort.
To embark on this culinary journey, gather your ingredients: cottage cheese, eggs, onion, parsley flakes, Monterey Jack cheese, and whole green chilies. These simple yet flavorful components come together harmoniously to create a dish that’s both hearty and wholesome.
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and generously buttering a large rectangular baking dish. This ensures that your casserole won’t stick and adds a rich, buttery flavor to the finished dish.
Next, it’s time to assemble the layers of goodness. In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, finely chopped onion, and parsley flakes. This creamy mixture forms the base of the casserole, providing a luscious texture and savory flavor profile.
Now, gently spread half of the cottage cheese mixture onto the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a smooth and even layer. Follow this with a generous sprinkling of grated Monterey Jack cheese, adding a layer of gooey, melty goodness to the dish. Then, arrange the whole green chilies on top of the cheese layer, ensuring they’re evenly distributed for optimal flavor in every bite.
Once the first layer of ingredients is assembled, repeat the process by adding the remaining cottage cheese mixture on top, followed by another layer of grated cheese and whole green chilies. This double-layered approach ensures that each forkful is bursting with cheesy goodness and subtle heat from the chilies.
With your casserole expertly layered, it’s time to bake it to golden perfection. Place the dish, uncovered, in the preheated oven and let it bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling with deliciousness. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is sure to whet your appetite and tantalize your taste buds.
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a dish that’s even more flavorful and satisfying.
Slice into generous portions and serve this Easy Chile Relleno Casserole alongside your favorite sides, such as a crisp green salad or warm, crusty bread. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight dinner or shared with friends and family at a potluck gathering, this timeless recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite for years to come. So, indulge in a taste of nostalgia with Julie’s Easy Chile Relleno Casserole and savor the memories with every bite.
