Mexican Chile Relleno Casserole Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Dish
When it comes to Mexican cuisine, there are few dishes that capture the essence of the country’s rich culinary heritage quite like the classic chile relleno. This dish, which translates to “stuffed chili,” is a staple in many Mexican households and restaurants. Today, we’re going to dive into a delightful recipe for a Mexican Chile Relleno Casserole, a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Before we get to the cooking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious casserole:
- 4 large green chilies
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Preparing the Chilies
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, cut the tops off the chilies and remove the seeds and membranes. You can do this by making a slit along the length of the chili and using a spoon to scoop out the seeds and membranes. Rinse the chilies under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Cooking the Meat Mixture
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes.
Stuffing the Chilies
Once the meat mixture is ready, spoon it into the hollowed-out chilies. Place the stuffed chilies in a baking dish and pour the remaining sauce over them. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Baking the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Once the casserole is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is perfect as a main course, and it pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or Mexican rice. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to make this casserole your own:
- Feel free to use different types of chilies, such as Anaheim or poblano, for a variety of flavors.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or black beans.
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
Enjoy your Mexican Chile Relleno Casserole, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family. ¡Buon provecho!
