Indulge in Flavor: Chile Relleno Bake
Experience the rich and savory flavors of Mexican cuisine with our delicious Chile Relleno Bake recipe. This hearty dish combines tender poblano peppers, gooey cheese, and a blend of spices for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a taste of comfort food, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Join us as we explore the art of making Chile Relleno Bake and discover how to create this mouthwatering dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your Chile Relleno Bake masterpiece:
- 7-8 poblano peppers, large is better
- 4 cups Mexican blend cheese, shredded
- 6 eggs
- 1 ⅓ cups milk
- ¼ cup flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ black pepper
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare and bake your Chile Relleno dish:
1. Prepare the Peppers:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Rinse the poblano peppers under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Place the peppers on a baking sheet and roast them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the skins are blistered and charred.
- Remove the peppers from the oven and transfer them to a heatproof bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the peppers steam for 10-15 minutes. This will make it easier to remove the skins.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- Once the peppers have cooled, carefully peel off the skins and discard them. Make a small slit along one side of each pepper and remove the seeds and membranes, taking care not to tear the peppers.
- Stuff each pepper with shredded Mexican blend cheese, ensuring they are evenly filled.
3. Prepare the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
4. Assemble and Bake:
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish. Arrange the stuffed poblano peppers in a single layer over the batter.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the peppers, ensuring they are evenly covered.
- Pour the remaining batter over the cheese, ensuring it covers the peppers evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the Chile Relleno Bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of this classic Mexican dish!
Cook Notes and Variations
Here are some helpful tips and variations to consider when making Chile Relleno Bake:
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheese varieties such as Monterey Jack, cheddar, or pepper jack for added flavor and complexity.
- Protein Additions: For a heartier dish, add cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or chorizo to the filling mixture.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version of Chile Relleno Bake.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less cumin, garlic powder, or sliced jalapeños.
Keto and Low-Carb Version
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how to make a keto-friendly version of Chile Relleno Bake:
- Low-Carb Breading: Replace the flour with almond flour or coconut flour to create a low-carb breading for the peppers.
- Low-Carb Milk Substitute: Use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk in place of regular milk to reduce the carb content of the batter.
- Cheese Options: Choose low-carb cheese options such as mozzarella, provolone, or Gouda to keep the carb count low.
- Serve with Cauliflower Rice: Instead of traditional rice, serve the Chile Relleno Bake with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly side dish.
In conclusion, Chile Relleno Bake is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful combination of roasted poblano peppers, gooey cheese, and aromatic spices, it’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or serving it as a side dish at your next fiesta, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and treat yourself to the irresistible flavors of Chile Relleno Bake today!
