Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole Recipe: Easy & Delicious

Welcome to Easy Crispy Recipes, where we bring you delicious, easy-to-make recipes that your whole family will love. Today, we’re diving into a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion: Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole. Originating from Mexican cuisine, Chiles Rellenos are traditionally stuffed chili peppers, often filled with cheese and sometimes meat, then battered and fried. Our version transforms this classic into a convenient casserole, making it easier to prepare while still delivering all the delicious flavors. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving something hearty and comforting.

Ingredients

To make this Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (27 ounces) whole green chiles, drained and split open
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the ground cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder to the beef. Stir well to combine. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

1. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, lay half of the green chiles in an even layer to cover the bottom.
2. Sprinkle half of the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese over the chiles.
3. Spread the cooked ground beef evenly over the cheese layer.
4. Add the remaining green chiles on top of the beef layer, followed by the rest of the shredded cheeses.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
2. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the baking dish, ensuring it seeps through to the bottom.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Sprinkle the chopped green onions and fresh cilantro (if using) over the top of the casserole.
2. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes, such as rice, beans, or a fresh salad.

Tips and Variations

Cooking Tips

• Drain the Chiles: Ensure the green chiles are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
• Cheese Blend: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends for varying flavors. Pepper Jack adds a nice spicy kick.
• Let It Set: Allowing the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing helps it set and makes serving easier.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef and add more vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini.
• Topping Options: Top with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for added flavor.

Substitutions

• Ground Beef: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a different protein option.
• Cheese: Use your favorite cheese varieties, like mozzarella or queso fresco, to mix up the flavors.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg

Conclusion

This Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole is a delightful twist on a Mexican classic, bringing all the flavors of traditional Chiles Rellenos in an easy-to-make casserole form. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for a satisfying family dinner. We hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious dish as much as we do.