Rachael Ray’s Chili Relleno Casserole Recipe

Rachael Ray’s recipe is the easiest way to get all the flavors of chile rellenos without standing over hot oil.

A key step is making sure the peppers are completely dry before layering—too much liquid will make it soggy instead of set.

Rachael Ray keeps it straightforward, but there’s plenty of room to tweak the spice level to your taste.

I like adding a handful of shredded Monterey Jack for extra meltiness and a pinch of cayenne for a touch more heat.

The top bakes up golden and slightly crispy, while the inside stays creamy with just the right amount of roasted pepper goodness.

How to Make Rachael Ray’s Chili Relleno Casserole

Ingredients

• 8 Poblano Peppers
• 8 oz. Chorizo (cooked and crumbled)
• 8 oz. Pepper Jack Cheese (cut into chunks)
• 4 Eggs
• 1 cup Whole Milk
• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 2 tsp Cumin
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Black Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Char the poblano peppers under a broiler until the skins are blackened.

Place them in a bowl and cover to cool.

Once cooled, peel and seed the peppers.

Step 2:

Preheat your oven to 375°F.

Layer half of the poblano peppers in the bottom of a casserole dish.

Fill each pepper with Pepper Jack cheese and cooked chorizo.

Step 3:

In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.

Add the flour, cumin, salt, and black pepper, whisking until smooth.

Pour this mixture over the stuffed peppers in the casserole dish.

Step 4:

Layer the remaining poblano peppers on top of the casserole.

Sprinkle any remaining cheese and chorizo over the top.

Step 5:

Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the egg mixture sets and the top is golden brown.

Serve warm and enjoy your creation!

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Roasting Peppers:

Roasting the peppers brings out their natural sweetness and adds a great depth to your dish, so don’t skip this step.

Cheese Variations:

Try using Oaxaca or Asadero cheese for a different taste.

They can add a uniquely creamy texture to your casserole without overpowering the other flavors.

Chorizo Alternatives:

If you prefer milder flavors, use ground turkey or beef instead of chorizo.

Adding a little smoked paprika can recreate that smoky flavor without the heat.

Layering Technique:

Make sure to properly layer and pack the casserole dish, so the flavors meld together during the baking process.

This will make each bite consistently delicious.

Spicing It Up:

Adjust the amount of black pepper according to your taste.

Feel free to add a dash more cumin or even a little chili powder if you love extra spice!

What to Serve with Rachael Ray Chile Relleno Casserole

Mexican Rice

You can’t go wrong with serving some Mexican rice alongside your chile relleno casserole.

It’s simple to make and pairs beautifully with the rich and cheesy casserole.

Cook the rice with a little tomato sauce, broth, onion, and garlic for a flavorful foundation.

Refried Beans

Another traditional side that complements the casserole is refried beans.

Their creamy texture balances wonderfully with the spicy and cheesy notes of the main dish.

I find they add a belly-filling warmth to the meal that’s tough to beat.

Sweet Corn Salad

Breaking from tradition, try a sweet corn salad for a fresh side!

Mix corn kernels with diced bell peppers and a squeeze of lime juice.

This brings a refreshing sweetness and a crunchy texture to contrast the baked casserole.

Mango Salsa

If you’re in the mood for something a bit adventurous, mango salsa could be a great choice.

It offers a sweet and spicy mix that dances around the richness of the casserole.

Diced mango, red onion, and a touch of chili make for an exciting and vibrant addition.

Grilled Veggies

For another unconventional side, grilled vegetables can be a hit.

Think zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of spices.

The smokiness from the charred veggies brings a whole different depth to the meal.

Variations and Substitutions

Adding Protein

Consider incorporating cooked ground beef or chorizo between the layers of your casserole.

This twist makes for a heartier meal that can satisfy even the biggest appetites!

Vegetarian Option

If you’re going meatless, don’t worry!

Swap the meat with black beans or corn for a tasty vegetarian option.

This variation keeps things full of flavor and texture!

Spice Things Up

If you love a bit of heat, there are easy ways to amplify the spice level.

Try adding a layer of sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.

These additions make for a zesty kick!

Sauce Swaps

Don’t be afraid to change up the sauce in your casserole.

If you want to lower the spice level, replace hot sauce with a mild non-chunky salsa.

For a richer flavor, use enchilada sauce instead of tomato sauce.

How to Store Leftover Rachael Ray Chili Relleno Casserole Recipe

When you’ve made extra of this delicious casserole, storing it correctly is key to keeping it tasty!

Short-Term Storage

Keep your leftover casserole in an airtight container.

Make sure to place it in the refrigerator as soon as possible if you plan to eat it within the next five days.

Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or use a lid to maintain its freshness.

Long-Term Storage

Want to savor it later? Freezing is the way to go.

Wrap portions individually in aluminum foil or a freezer-safe bag for convenience.

It’s best to use the leftover casserole within three months to retain its flavor.

Label and Date

Always label and date your stored leftovers.

This simple step ensures you know exactly how long that tasty dish has been waiting for you.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Charring the Peppers Enough

Make sure you thoroughly char the peppers under the broiler until the skins are blackened.

If you don’t, the skins won’t peel off easily, which can affect their texture in the dish.

Overstuffing the Peppers

Avoid the temptation to fill the peppers too much with cheese or chorizo.

An overstuffed pepper can burst during cooking, spoiling the presentation and balance of flavors.

Skipping the Resting Time

Let your casserole rest for at least a few minutes after you take it out of the oven.

This helps the ingredients settle and makes it easier to cut into perfectly structured pieces.