Easy baked Mexican comfort food with roasted poblanos and gooey cheese
This chili relleno casserole is the perfect solution for when you crave traditional Mexican flavors but want to skip the deep frying. Layers of roasted poblano peppers, melted cheese, and fluffy eggs create a hearty breakfast, brunch, or dinner dish in one pan!
With its golden-brown crust and gooey interior, this baked version maintains all the flavor of the classic while being much easier to prepare. The casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead for busy mornings.
What makes this recipe special? It's the combination of smoky roasted poblanos, melted cheese, and rich egg custard that creates an irresistible texture contrast. Plus, you'll get all the flavor without the mess of frying!
Whether you're a fan of traditional Mexican cuisine or just looking for a new comfort food, this chili relleno casserole is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ No Frying Required
Skip the deep frying while still getting the same satisfying texture from the golden-brown egg crust and melted cheese layers.
💰 Budget-Friendly
Uses affordable ingredients like poblanos, cheese, and eggs to create a restaurant-quality dish at home.
👥 Makes a Crowd-Pleaser
Serves 6 and is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner gatherings with its bold Mexican flavors.
🌟 Quick Prep
Ready in 45 minutes with minimal hands-on time. Just assemble and bake!
Chili Relleno Casserole
Baked Mexican comfort food with roasted poblanos
🛒 Ingredients
- - 6-8 roasted poblano peppers
- - 3 cups shredded cheese blend (Monterey Jack + cheddar)
- - 5 large eggs
- - 1½ cups milk
- - 1 teaspoon cumin
- - ½ teaspoon chili powder
- - Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳 Instructions
Prep Poblanos: Roast poblanos until skins blister. Cool, peel, and slice into ½-inch strips.
💡 Use a paper bag to steam the skins for easier peeling.
Layer in Dish: In a 9x13-inch baking dish, arrange poblano strips in a single layer.
💡 Overlap slightly for a neat presentation.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle half the cheese blend over the poblanos.
💡 Use a mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar for optimal melt.
Make Egg Mixture: Whisk eggs, milk, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
💡 Use a blender for extra smooth custard.
Assemble Casserole: Pour egg mixture over poblanos. Top with remaining cheese.
💡 Press gently to ensure even coverage.
Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake 45 minutes or until golden and puffed.
💡 Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Roasted Poblanos
The smoky char from roasting gives the dish its signature flavor. For extra smokiness, grill instead of oven-roast.
Substitutions: Use Anaheim peppers for milder flavor, or poblano powder for a dry rub version.
Cheese Blend
Monterey Jack melts smoothly while cheddar adds richness. For vegan version, use nutritional yeast and cashew cheese.
Substitutions: Substitute with Oaxaca or queso fresco for authentic Mexican flavor.
Egg Mixture
The custard creates a light, fluffy texture that complements the roasted peppers. For gluten-free version, use certified GF milk.
Substitutions: Use egg substitute for vegan version, or add ½ cup diced tomatoes for a vegetarian option.
Spices
Cumin and chili powder provide the essential Mexican flavor profile. Add ½ tsp of smoked paprika for extra depth.
Substitutions: Use ground coriander instead of cumin for a different flavor note.
Pro Tips for Perfect Chili Relleno Casserole
🌶️ Spice Control
Remove poblanos' seeds and membranes for milder flavor. Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper for extra heat.
🥄 Make Ahead Tips
Assemble casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
🧀 Cheese Layering
Use pre-shredded cheese for faster prep. For better melt, add ½ cup of melted cheese to the egg mixture.
🔥 Baking Tips
For a crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Variations & Customizations
Vegetarian Version
Add ½ cup of black beans or corn to the egg mixture for extra protein and texture.
Breakfast Boost
Top with sliced avocado, a fried egg, and a drizzle of hot sauce for a breakfast twist.
Protein Power
Mix ½ cup of cooked chorizo or shredded chicken into the egg mixture for a heartier version.
Gluten-Free Option
Use certified gluten-free milk and ensure all spices are GF certified.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Warm flour tortillas for easy wrapping
- Crema or sour cream for creamy topping
- Guacamole or sliced avocado for freshness
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp Mexican lager beer or a light-bodied red wine like Tempranillo.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Assemble casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Freezer Storage
Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before baking.
Reheating Instructions
For best results, reheat in oven rather than microwave to maintain texture. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Can I use frozen poblanos?
A: Yes, but thaw completely first. Frozen poblanos may release more moisture, so pat dry before using.
Q: How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
A: Cover with foil during baking and remove for the last 2 minutes to allow browning.
Q: Can I make this in a smaller dish?
A: Yes, but baking time will increase by 10-15 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
Q: Why isn't the casserole puffinging?
A: Ensure oven is fully preheated. The eggs need high heat to create the puffing. Avoid opening oven door during baking.
Final Thoughts
This chili relleno casserole is a game-changer for anyone who loves Mexican food but wants an easier, healthier version. The combination of roasted poblanos, melted cheese, and fluffy eggs creates a satisfying meal that's perfect for any time of day.
Whether you're serving breakfast to the family or hosting a weekend brunch, this casserole will impress with its restaurant-quality flavor and beautiful presentation. Don't forget the garnishes - they add the perfect finishing touch!
