Jump to Recipe Print RecipeBaked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole is a warm hug on a plate, an enticing one-dish meal that effortlessly captures the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. When I first whipped up this casserole, I was immediately taken by how simple it is to bring together roasted poblano peppers stuffed with a comforting beef filling and topped with a rich, creamy layer—no fancy techniques required! The beauty of this dish lies in its flexible nature: you can easily customize the heat level and swap in different proteins to please every palate. Plus, it’s an excellent option for busy weeknights or family gatherings, allowing everyone to dig in without the fuss. Are you ready to discover how simple and satisfying homemade comfort food can be? Why is this casserole a crowd-pleaser? Simplicity reigns supreme with this recipe; it combines straightforward steps that yield a dish everyone will adore. Customizable heat levels mean you can cater to varying spice preferences, delighting both the adventurous eater and the mild palate. One-dish meal magic allows for quick cleanup—perfect for busy family nights! Rich, cheesy flavor shines through every bite, making it a comforting favorite. Flexible protein options let you swap ground beef for chicken or plant-based alternatives, ensuring everyone is satisfied. Visual appeal of the bubbling, golden top will have your guests reaching for seconds before they even finish the first! Enjoy it alongside a simple green salad or the delightful Baked Mac Cheese for a complete meal! Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole Ingredients For the Casserole Poblano Peppers – The star of the dish; char them properly for a smoky flavor. Ground Beef – A rich source of protein; swap for turkey or plant-based options for a lighter dish. Eggs – They bind the casserole together; consider using silken tofu for a vegan alternative. Cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar) – Adds creaminess and depth; feel free to experiment with vegan cheese if needed. For the Seasoning Cumin – Infuses warmth and depth; increase for a bolder flavor. Garlic Powder – Elevates the dish with aromatic goodness; fresh garlic can be used for a punchier taste. Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance overall flavor; always taste before serving. For Optional Toppings Green Onions – Adds a fresh crunch; omit if you prefer a simpler finish. Cilantro – A touch of herbaceous flavor; consider using parsley if you’re not a fan of cilantro. This Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole is sure to impress with its delightful blend of flavors and traditions! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole Step 1: Prep Peppers Begin by roasting your poblano peppers over an open flame or under the broiler until they are nicely charred, about 10-15 minutes. Turn them frequently until the skin is blistered and blackened all around. Once they’re ready, transfer the peppers to a bowl, cover with a towel, and let them steam for about 10 minutes. This will soften the skin and make peeling easier. Step 2: Cook Meat While the peppers cool, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook the meat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, around 7-10 minutes. Stir in cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, letting the flavors meld for an additional 2 minutes. Drain any excess fat, ensuring a rich yet clean filling for your Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole. Step 3: Assemble Casserole Once the peppers have cooled, peel off the skin and carefully deseed them, keeping the peppers whole. Stuff each pepper generously with the savory beef mixture, allowing any excess to rest on top. Arrange the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly together to maintain their shape during baking, which will enhance the overall presentation of your casserole. Step 4: Prepare Egg Mixture In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs until they are frothy. Then, fold in the shredded cheese for a creamy topping. Pour this egg and cheese mixture evenly over the stuffed peppers, ensuring each pepper gets well coated. This layer will provide that deliciously rich texture to your Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole. Step 5: Bake Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the egg mixture is set and the casserole is bubbling slightly. The foil helps retain moisture, ensuring the casserole remains juicy and flavorful during the cooking process. Step 6: Finish Cooking After the initial baking time, carefully remove the foil to allow the top to brown. Continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crispy. This step adds a delightful contrast to the soft and cheesy interior of your Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole, making it visually appealing and tempting. Expert Tips for Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole Perfect Roasting: Ensure your poblano peppers are well-charred for maximum flavor. Turn them frequently to achieve an even roast without burning. Meat Tenderness: Avoid overcooking the ground beef to keep it juicy. Aim for a nice browning without it becoming dry, especially in your Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole. Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheese blends for a unique taste. A mix of Monterey Jack and pepper jack can add extra zest while keeping the dish creamy. Deseeding Peppers: Don’t skip this step! Leaving seeds in the peppers can lead to an overly spicy dish, which might not suit everyone’s palate. Assemble Ahead: For convenience, you can prepare and stuff the casserole a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to bake for an easy meal. How to Store and Freeze Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your delicious Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole fresh and ready for easy reheating. Freezer: If you want to freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes. This method helps maintain the creamy texture of the casserole. Make-Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day ahead and store it in the fridge before baking. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights! Make Ahead Options These Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole are a fantastic choice for meal prep, perfect for busy weeknights! You can roast and stuff the poblano peppers with the beef filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate; this helps maintain their flavor and prevents drying out. When you’re ready to bake, whisk together the egg and cheese mixture, pour it over the filled peppers, and bake as directed. For an even quicker option, you can assemble the entire casserole ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and simply pop it in the oven when needed—this means you’ll have a comforting homemade meal without the fuss! What to Serve with Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole Experience a complete culinary journey by pairing your dish with sides that enhance its vibrant flavors and comforting texture. Crispy Green Salad: Fresh greens with a tangy vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. The crunch and acidity create a balance that every bite craves. Guacamole Dip: This creamy avocado delight is the perfect companion, adding a smooth and cool touch that complements the spice of the dish. Don’t hesitate to scoop it up with tortilla chips for added texture! Mexican Rice: Flavorful, aromatic rice with cilantro and lime rounds out the meal, providing fluffy, savory goodness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole. Black Beans: A simple yet hearty side of seasoned black beans adds protein and earthy flavor, making your meal even more satisfying. The softness of beans perfectly offsets the peppery heat in the casserole. Roasted Corn Salsa: Sweet corn mixed with tomatoes and cilantro offers a bright, zesty addition that elevates your dining experience. The sweet and spicy notes truly harmonize with the savory ingredients of the main dish. Chilled Horchata: This sweet, cinnamon-infused rice beverage cools the palate and is an excellent pairing to temper the casserole’s heat. Perfect for sipping alongside your meal, it adds an authentic touch to the Mexican feast! Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole Variations Feel free to explore these tempting ideas that can elevate your casserole experience! Heat Levels: Adjust the spice by using jalapeños instead of poblanos for an extra kick. Your tastebuds will thank you for the bold move! Protein Swap: Replace ground beef with shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter option. This change doesn’t compromise on flavor, ensuring it remains just as comforting. Bean Boost: Add black beans or corn to the filling for added nutrition and texture. This twist not only makes it heartier but also enhances the flavors! Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for a spicy kick, or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a creamy, gooey experience. Vegan Option: Use plant-based ground meat and silken tofu instead of eggs for a delicious vegan rendition. The flavor combinations remain rich and fulfilling! Vegetable Medley: Mix in diced zucchini or bell peppers with the beef for a colorful addition. The extra veggies will add both flavor and nutrition to every bite. Different Peppers: Try using a mix of poblanos, anaheims, and even sweet bell peppers for varied heat and a beautiful presentation. Each bite will bring a new flavor profile to your plate! For more delightful meals, consider pairing this casserole with an easy-to-make dish like Cheese Dog Casserole or take a look at the comforting Baked Hot Honey Chicken for some variety! Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe poblano peppers? Absolutely! Look for poblano peppers that are firm, glossy, and a deep green color. Avoid any that have wrinkles or dark spots all over. Fresh peppers will give your Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole the best flavor! What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftover Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation that can make it soggy. Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the casserole! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil, ensuring no air can get in. This will keep it fresh for up to 3 months. For reheating, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. What should I do if my peppers are too spicy? If you find your peppers are a bit too spicy, don’t fret! You can balance the heat by adding more cheese or creaminess to your Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole. If you enjoy extra toppings, consider sour cream or guacamole on the side to help mellow flavors. Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free? Certainly! To make this casserole dairy-free, simply swap out the cheese for a vegan alternative and use silken tofu in place of eggs. Combine the tofu with your favorite spices to achieve a creamy consistency, ensuring everyone can enjoy it! How can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? For a hassle-free meal, you can assemble your Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and pop it in the oven—easy peasy! Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole that Will Wow Your Family Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole is a delightful one-dish meal featuring roasted poblano peppers, a delicious beef filling, and rich, creamy toppings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanCalories: 410 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Casserole4 pieces Poblano Peppers char them properly for a smoky flavor1 pound Ground Beef or swap for turkey or plant-based options4 large Eggs consider using silken tofu for a vegan alternative2 cups Cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar) or experiment with vegan cheeseFor the Seasoning1 teaspoon Cumin increase for a bolder flavor1 teaspoon Garlic Powder or use fresh garlic for stronger tasteto taste Salt essential to enhance overall flavorto taste Pepper always taste before servingFor Optional Toppings2 tablespoons Green Onions omit if you prefer a simpler finish2 tablespoons Cilantro or consider parsley if you prefer Equipment Skilletbaking dishMedium bowl Method Preparation StepsBegin by roasting your poblano peppers over an open flame or under the broiler until charred, about 10-15 minutes.While the peppers cool, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add ground beef, cooking until browned, around 7-10 minutes.Once cooled, peel off the skin from the peppers and deseed them, then stuff each pepper with the beef mixture.In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and fold in shredded cheese, then pour over stuffed peppers.Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until set.Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 410kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 28gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 180mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg NotesThis casserole can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Perfect for busy weeknights! Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
