Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hatch Chile Relleno Casserole brings all the bold, smoky flavor of traditional chile rellenos into a simplified, layered casserole form. With roasted Hatch chiles, gooey cheese, and a fluffy egg batter, this dish is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner. It’s much easier than stuffing individual chiles but delivers all the same savory satisfaction.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

roasted Hatch green chiles
Monterey Jack cheese
cheddar cheese
eggs
milk
all-purpose flour
baking powder
salt
pepper
garlic powder
onion powder
olive oil or cooking spray

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

Layer half of the roasted Hatch chiles on the bottom of the dish, spreading them evenly.

Sprinkle a mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese over the chiles.

Add another layer of the remaining Hatch chiles, followed by the rest of the cheese.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the chile and cheese layers.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden brown on top.

Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35–40 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 60–65 minutes

Variations

Add cooked chorizo or ground beef between the chile layers for a meatier version.
Use pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
Top with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes for a fresh finish.
Make it dairy-free by using plant-based cheese and milk alternatives.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
Freeze slices for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What are Hatch chiles?
Hatch chiles are a type of green chile grown in Hatch, New Mexico, known for their unique smoky flavor and heat.

Do I need to peel the chiles?
Yes, for the best texture and flavor, roast and peel the chiles before using them in the casserole.

Can I use canned green chiles?
Yes, if Hatch chiles are unavailable, canned green chiles are a good substitute, though fresh roasted ones offer the best flavor.

Is this dish spicy?
Hatch chiles range in heat; you can use mild or hot depending on your preference.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and bake the next day.

Is flour necessary in the egg mixture?
Yes, it helps the casserole set and gives it a light, fluffy structure.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

What can I serve with it?
It pairs well with refried beans, Spanish rice, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

Hatch Chile Relleno Casserole is a delicious and practical twist on a beloved Southwestern classic. With its cheesy layers and savory roasted chiles, it’s a comforting dish that brings bold flavor to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this casserole is sure to satisfy