Name: Delicious Baked Chili Rellenos Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 6 large poblano peppers; 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 4 large eggs; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Non-stick spray or butter, for greasing

Baked Chili Rellenos Cheese is a dish that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your heart. Enthusing flavor profiles that mingle the zest of roasted poblano peppers and the creamy goodness of Monterey Jack cheese, it stands out as a fantastic vegetarian option suitable for any meal. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a social gathering, this delectable dish promises to be a showstopper on your table. The delightful combination of textures, from the tender peppers to the fluffy cheese, creates an irresistible experience that’s hard to resist.

The beauty of this Baked Chili Rellenos Cheese lies not only in its flavor but also in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can prepare a meal that impresses both in presentation and taste. This recipe takes mere minutes to prepare, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones while it bakes to perfection in the oven. If you’re searching for a dish that’s both satisfying and visually appealing, then look no further!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Chili Rellenos Cheese

Flavorful Fusion: The combination of roasted poblanos and gooey Monterey Jack cheese makes for a delightful flavor explosion.
Simple and Quick: With just a few steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Vegetarian-Friendly: A wholesome option that caters to vegetarians without compromising on taste.
Visual Appeal: A striking dish that not only tastes good but also looks great, perfect for serving to guests.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices and fillings to suit your preferences.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the delightful world of Baked Chili Rellenos Cheese, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches optimal baking temperature. You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking dish to house those peppers during the baking process. A non-stick spray or a bit of butter will help in greasing the dish, preventing any sticking and ensuring easy serving.

Gather your ingredients – large poblano peppers, Monterey Jack cheese, eggs, all-purpose flour, whole milk, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese. A mixing bowl, a whisk, and a baking sheet will also come in handy! Moreover, if you’re opting for roasting the peppers over an open flame, you’ll need something like tongs for safely handling them. Prepare your workspace by ensuring you have enough room and a clean surface – we want this cooking experience to be enjoyable and mess-free!

Ingredients

6 large poblano peppers
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
4 large eggs
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Non-stick spray or butter, for greasing

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

To kick off this culinary adventure, begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This initial step is crucial as it ensures that your dish bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden. While your oven warms up, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and apply a layer of non-stick spray or a bit of butter to grease it well, preparing for the delicious components that will come next.

Step 2: Roast the Peppers

Next, it’s time to focus on the stars of this recipe—the poblano peppers. Roast them over an open flame or under your broiler, turning them occasionally to achieve a lovely char on all sides. You want the skins to blister and turn dark, which enhances the flavor profiles. This technique brings out the natural sweetness and adds depth to your dish. Once charred, transfer the peppers to a bowl and cover them with plastic wrap or a lid to allow them to steam for several minutes. This steaming process aids in loosening the skins for easy peeling.

Step 3: Peel, Stuff, and Assemble

Once the peppers have steam-roasted in their bowl, carefully remove them and start peeling off the skins. Be gentle to avoid tearing the flesh. After peeling, make a slit down one side of each pepper and remove the seeds expertly. Now it’s time for the fun! Take your shredded Monterey Jack cheese and stuff each pepper until they are generously filled. Arrange the stuffed peppers in the prepared baking dish, ensuring that they sit in a single layer to promote even cooking.

Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs along with the all-purpose flour, whole milk, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure to beat the mixture until it’s smooth and fully integrated. This creamy concoction will deliver that rich, delicious coating over the stuffed peppers.

Step 5: Bake It to Perfection

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the stuffed peppers, allowing it to seep down into the crevices. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top for an irresistible, cheesy crust. Place the baking dish in the heated oven and bake it for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and puffed up—this is when you can truly savor the mouth-watering aroma filling your kitchen!

Variations

Protein: Add some cooked crumbled chorizo or diced chicken for an extra protein punch. Vegetarian sausage is another excellent option for meat lovers looking for a twist.
Vegetables: Incorporate ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or corn to the cheese mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Spices: Elevate the dish by adding spices like cumin, paprika, or even a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick.

Cooking Notes

If poblano peppers are too spicy for your taste, you can opt for bell peppers instead for a milder flavor.
For an even creamier texture, consider adding cream cheese to the cheese filling.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh side salad dressed in lime vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Serve with homemade salsa or guacamole for added zest and flavor.

Tips

Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors and make it easier to slice.
For best results, enjoy it fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 20 grams
Sodium: 400 milligrams

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses such as Pepper Jack for some added spice, or a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Is it possible to prepare the dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can stuff the peppers and prepare the egg mixture a day in advance. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready!

What if I don’t have poblano peppers?

Bell peppers can be substituted in place of poblano peppers for a milder taste.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the baked dish. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Baked Chili Rellenos Cheese is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor and enjoyment. Perfect for any occasion, this dish can easily become a family favorite. Remember the versatility of this recipe—the ways you can play with the ingredients to make it your own are limitless. So, why not give it a try tonight? Join the conversation by leaving a comment below, sharing your variations, or simply letting me know how you enjoyed this delightful dish. Let’s indulge in the cheesy goodness and warm flavors that only a dish like this can bring!