Chile Relleno Casserole – A Tex-Mex Favorite
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Recipe Category: One-Dish Meal
Keywords: Cheese, Mexican, Quick, Oven-Baked, Easy
This Chile Relleno Casserole is a beloved dish that takes inspiration from the classic Tex-Mex chile relleno. It’s easy to make and packed with layers of cheesy goodness, savory chilies, and a creamy, comforting texture. The recipe is one of those crowd-pleasers that has been a staple in many kitchens over the years. Originating from a friend named Marti, it combines the rich flavors of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, along with the mild heat from canned green chilies. Baked to perfection, this casserole comes out bubbling and golden, with a texture that mimics the classic chile relleno, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even as a dish for potlucks.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup |
| Monterey Jack Cheese | 1 cup |
| Canned Green Chilies | 2 cans |
| Milk | 3/4 cup |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Bisquick | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 824.2 kcal |
| Total Fat | 58.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 34.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 257.6 mg |
| Sodium | 1194 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 28.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g |
| Sugars | 7.2 g |
| Protein | 47.8 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and Bisquick until smooth and well-combined. The Bisquick will help to form the base of the casserole, giving it a light, fluffy texture. -
Layer the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Begin layering the casserole ingredients in the following order:- Start with a layer of cheddar cheese on the bottom of the dish.
- Next, add one can of green chilies, spreading them evenly over the cheese.
- Follow with a layer of Monterey Jack cheese.
- Then, add the second can of green chilies over the Jack cheese.
- Finally, pour the egg and Bisquick mixture evenly over the entire casserole, making sure it covers all the layers.
-
Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden on top. The edges should be slightly crispy, and the center should no longer jiggle when you gently shake the dish. If you want an extra golden top, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning. -
Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This will help the casserole set and make serving easier. Serve hot with a side of Mexican rice or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Chile Relleno Casserole
- Chili Variations: While this recipe uses canned green chilies for convenience, you can also use fresh roasted chilies if you prefer a more intense flavor. Be sure to remove the skins and seeds before using them in the casserole.
- Cheese Choices: The combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese gives a nice balance of sharpness and creaminess. If you prefer, you can swap out one of the cheeses for a pepper jack for a little added spice.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or for busy weeknights.
- Add Protein: If you want to add more protein to this dish, consider incorporating shredded chicken or ground beef between the layers of cheese and chilies.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Not only is this Chile Relleno Casserole incredibly simple to make, but it also brings the flavors of a restaurant-style chile relleno to your kitchen in a fraction of the time. The creamy, cheesy filling and the mild heat from the chilies are the perfect combination for a comfort food that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, with only 10 minutes of prep time, this is the ideal dish for anyone who loves Mexican food but is looking for a quick, hassle-free recipe. It’s filling, flavorful, and sure to become a household favorite.
Final Thoughts
This Chile Relleno Casserole is an excellent example of a recipe that is both nostalgic and contemporary, combining the best elements of classic Tex-Mex cuisine with the convenience of a one-pan meal. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or preparing a weeknight meal, this casserole is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of chile relleno without all the frying and prep work of the traditional dish. With its cheesy layers, savory chilies, and fluffy texture, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite for so many!
