Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole Recipe for Easy Family Meals
Introduction
Welcome, food enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the world of Tex-Mex cuisine with a mouthwatering baked beef chiles rellenos casserole. This dish combines the best of traditional chiles rellenos with the convenience of a casserole, perfect for busy families and seasoned cooks alike. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this easy baked beef chiles rellenos casserole recipe that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Why is it Perfect for You?
This casserole is a game-changer for several reasons:
◾ It’s a time-saver, combining all the flavors of chiles rellenos without the fuss of individual stuffing and frying.
◾ The versatility allows for easy customization to suit your family’s preferences.
◾ It’s make-ahead friendly, perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
◾ The balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and dairy makes it a complete meal in one dish.
Ingredients List
For this delectable casserole, you’ll need:
◾ 6 large poblano peppers
◾ 1 pound ground beef
◾ 1 medium onion, diced
◾ 2 cloves garlic, minced
◾ 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
◾ 1 tablespoon chili powder
◾ 1 teaspoon cumin
◾ Salt and pepper to taste
◾ 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
◾ 6 large eggs
◾ 1/2 cup milk
◾ 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Preparation Time and Servings
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Peppers
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the poblano peppers on a baking sheet and roast them for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is blistered and charred. Once done, transfer them to a plastic bag to steam for 10 minutes. This will make peeling easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling
While the peppers are roasting, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Peel the cooled peppers, remove the seeds, and cut them into strips. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and layer half of the pepper strips on the bottom. Spread the beef mixture over the peppers, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese. Layer the remaining pepper strips on top.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and flour until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the casserole, ensuring it seeps through the layers. Top with the remaining cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 35-40 minutes, or until the egg mixture is set and the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information
This baked beef chiles rellenos casserole is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s high in protein and provides a good source of vitamins from the peppers and tomatoes.
Calories per Person
Approximately 450-500 calories per serving, based on 8 servings.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make this dish lighter:
◾ Use lean ground turkey instead of beef
◾ Opt for low-fat cheese and milk
◾ Increase the vegetable content by adding zucchini or spinach
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with:
◾ A crisp green salad
◾ Fresh pico de gallo
◾ Warm corn tortillas
◾ A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream
Common Mistakes to Avoid
◾ Not roasting the peppers long enough, making them difficult to peel
◾ Overcooking the casserole, which can lead to dryness
◾ Forgetting to let the casserole rest before serving, which helps it set
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Just add the egg mixture right before baking.
Is this recipe spicy?
The heat level is moderate. For a milder version, use bell peppers instead of poblanos. To increase the spice, add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
Can I freeze this casserole?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
This baked beef chiles rellenos casserole is a testament to the beauty of Tex-Mex cuisine – bold flavors, comforting textures, and the ability to bring people together around the table. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to create a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
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Share your experience with us
OOLALA
This turned out so awesome they look like they came from a exspensive bakery.
Just a question
So what about the grease from the meat? Should I use the leanest meats or is the grease give more flavor.
What about a meatloaf on top of veggies ? Would that work?
Ingredients list good, directions lacking
There were great details on quantities of ingredients I should use, but the recipe didn’t tell me the cook time. Also, mentioned in the section about “common mistakes” that you need to let it chill enough but doesn’t direct you in the recipe that you need to let it chill. More details would be helpful
Dressing is perfect!
Not a big fan of mayo, loved the Greek yogurt swap. Reduced garlic a bit. Dressing was delish!
Best coffee cake- ever!!
This recipe was not the easiest to follow due to how it was written. It requires a lot of back and forth from instructions to the lists of ingredients but oh, hey, the end result is totally worth the effort! Mouthwatering and delicious plus it’s a pretty presentation.
