If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinner game, look no further than this Chile Rellenos Bake. Imagine a cozy dish loaded with the vibrant flavors of roasted green chiles, oozing cheese, and a touch of spice – all in one hearty bake. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it a family favorite that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Why Cooks Rave About It
The beauty of a Chile Rellenos Bake lies in its versatility. It captures the delicious essence of traditional Chile Rellenos without the fuss of frying each pepper. All you need is a single pan, and you can serve a crowd with minimal effort. The combination of creamy cheese, tender chiles, and a hint of spice is comfort food at its finest. Plus, it’s an ideal way to showcase the rich flavors of green chiles, making this dish a must-try for any lover of Mexican cuisine.
Ingredients at a Glance
To whip up this flavorful bake, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 (27 oz.) can roasted and peeled green chiles
- 4 cups grated Four-Cheese Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup very thinly sliced green onions (optional)
- 5 eggs
- 1/2 cup half and half
- 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp. chili powder
Must-Have Equipment
Before you start cooking, ensure you have the following kitchen tools:
- 9×13 inch baking dish: Perfect for holding all the delicious ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: For whisking together the eggs and half and half.
- Whisk: Essential for combining the egg mixture smoothly.
- Knife and cutting board: For slicing the green onions and prepping any additional toppings.
From Start to Finish: Chile Rellenos Bake
Follow these simple steps for a delicious Chile Rellenos Bake:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your bake cooks evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Layer the Green Chiles
Open the can of roasted green chiles and carefully spread them evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. If you’re using fresh chiles, roast and peel them beforehand.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Green Onions
Sprinkle half of the grated Four-Cheese Mexican blend cheese over the chiles. If you’re using green onions, add them here as well for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 5: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs, half and half, ground cumin, and chili powder. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 6: Pour the Egg Mixture
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered cheese and chiles in the baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Step 7: Top with Remaining Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the egg mixture for a gooey, cheesy finish.
Step 8: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the eggs are set.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut into squares and serve warm, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Better-for-You Options
If you’re looking to make this dish a bit healthier, consider the following options:
- Low-fat cheese: Substitute with low-fat cheese for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
- Egg whites: Use egg whites instead of whole eggs to reduce cholesterol.
- Non-dairy half and half: Choose a plant-based half and half alternative if you’re avoiding dairy.
What Not to Do
To ensure your Chile Rellenos Bake turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Don’t skip the greasing step. A well-greased dish will prevent sticking and make serving easier.
- Avoid overbaking. Keep an eye on the bake to ensure it doesn’t become dry. It should be set but still moist.
- Don’t use low-quality cheese. The cheese is the star of the dish, so opt for a good quality Four-Cheese blend for the best flavor.
- Don’t forget to let it cool slightly before cutting. This helps the bake set up and makes for cleaner slices.
Make-Ahead & Storage
This Chile Rellenos Bake can easily be prepared in advance:
You can assemble the dish a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge. For storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use fresh chiles instead of canned?
Yes! If you prefer fresh chiles, roast them until charred, peel off the skins, and then chop them before layering them in the dish.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled but unbaked dish for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What can I serve with Chile Rellenos Bake?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, avocado slices, or some homemade chicken enchiladas for a complete meal.
Can I add meat to the bake?
Yes! Ground beef or shredded chicken can be added for extra protein. Just layer it in with the chiles and cheese.
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In Closing
This Chile Rellenos Bake is a delightful dish that brings the warmth of traditional flavors straight to your table with minimal effort. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. The combination of creamy cheese, lively spices, and the heartiness of green chiles makes every bite a satisfying experience. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will love. So preheat that oven and get ready to enjoy a slice of this delicious bake!
Chile Rellenos Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your bake cooks evenly.
- Lightly grease your 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Open the can of roasted green chiles and carefully spread them evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. If you’re using fresh chiles, roast and peel them beforehand.
- Sprinkle half of the grated Four-Cheese Mexican blend cheese over the chiles. If you’re using green onions, add them here as well for an extra layer of flavor.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs, half and half, ground cumin, and chili powder. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered cheese and chiles in the baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the egg mixture for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the eggs are set.
- Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut into squares and serve warm, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cheese.
- Use egg whites instead of whole eggs to reduce cholesterol.
- Assemble ahead of time and refrigerate for easy baking.
