Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that transforms the classic stuffed pepper into an easy, layered casserole. Filled with savory ground beef, melted cheese, and tender roasted peppers, then baked to golden perfection, it’s a family-friendly meal that’s full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole takes the labor-intensive process of making traditional chiles rellenos and simplifies it without sacrificing taste. It’s cheesy, meaty, and full of warm, roasted pepper flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it’s satisfying, customizable, and sure to please kids and adults alike.

Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
4–5 roasted poblano peppers, peeled and chopped
2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon olive oil

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

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook Beef Mixture: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add ground beef, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
Combine Ingredients: Remove skillet from heat and stir in chopped roasted poblanos, diced tomatoes, half of the shredded cheese, and sour cream until well combined.
Assemble Casserole: Spread the beef and pepper mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve warm with rice, tortillas, or a side salad.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute cooked lentils or black beans for the ground beef.
Cheese Variations: Use pepper jack, cheddar, or a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
Taco-Inspired: Mix in taco seasoning and serve with crushed tortilla chips on top.
Low-Carb Option: Serve without rice or tortillas, or use cauliflower rice as a base.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well. Adjust seasoning for flavor since poultry is milder than beef.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, the baked casserole can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. Can I use fresh green chilies instead of roasted poblanos?

Yes, but roasting the peppers adds depth of flavor. Fresh peppers will be slightly milder and crisper.

5. Can I make it spicier?

Yes, add diced jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce to taste.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, Mexican blend, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack are all great options.

7. Can I add rice to the casserole?

Yes, cooked rice can be layered in the casserole for a heartier dish.

8. Can I use canned green chilies instead of fresh roasted peppers?

Yes, canned green chilies work in a pinch, though roasting fresh peppers provides more smoky flavor.

9. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?

Drain canned tomatoes well and avoid overcooking the peppers before assembling.

10. What can I serve with this casserole?

Serve with Mexican rice, black beans, tortillas, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole is a flavorful, cheesy, and easy-to-make dinner that captures all the goodness of classic chiles rellenos in a simple, layered dish. With minimal prep and maximum taste, it’s perfect for family meals or casual gatherings.

Chef MARTHA