Description
A savory and comforting Chile Relleno Casserole that layers ground beef, green chilies, and a blend of Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses, all baked together with a rich egg custard for a delicious Mexican-inspired meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (4-ounce) cans of whole green chilies, drained
Cheese
- 3 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional
- Salsa or hot sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to warm up while you prepare the casserole layers.
- Cook ground beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and the beef is fully cooked. Drain excess fat thoroughly to avoid greasiness.
- Prepare the base layer: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Lay the whole green chilies flat at the bottom; if closed or bulky, slice or tear them into strips to ensure an even layer covering the dish.
- Add the beef layer: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the green chilies.
- Add first cheese layer: Sprinkle half of the shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese evenly atop the beef layer.
- Add second chilies layer: Place another layer of whole green chilies over the cheese for added flavor and texture.
- Mix custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour custard: Evenly pour the egg mixture over all the layers in the baking dish, allowing it to seep through the layers.
- Add final cheese layer: Top the casserole with the remaining Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese, covering the custard layer.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set and firm in the center.
- Cool before serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes to set further and make serving easier.
- Serve: Cut into portions and serve warm, optionally accompanied by salsa or hot sauce for extra zest.
Notes
- Ensure to drain the ground beef well to prevent a soggy casserole.
- If you prefer less spice, use mild green chilies; for more heat, choose hot green chilies.
- You can substitute the cheese blend with your favorite cheeses if preferred.
- Letting the casserole cool slightly helps it firm up and makes slicing easier.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and reheated before serving.
- Use a non-stick or well-greased baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: Chile Relleno, Casserole, Ground Beef Casserole, Mexican Casserole, Cheesy Casserole, Dinner Recipe, Baked Casserole
