Baked Chili Rellenos Cheese

This baked chili rellenos cheese recipe has become my go-to comfort dish when I want something rich, cheesy, and effortlessly delicious. It blends smoky poblano peppers with creamy cheeses and a light, airy egg batter that bakes to golden perfection every time.

I first made this when I wanted a homemade Mexican-inspired dinner without the fuss of traditional frying. Now it’s a favorite for weeknight dinners and casual weekend meals alike.

Ingredients

• Six large poblano peppers: these have just the right mild heat and smoky flavor when roasted
• Two cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese: melts beautifully and adds creamy texture
• Four large eggs: create a light and fluffy coating when baked
• One third cup all-purpose flour: helps the egg batter set nicely
• Half cup whole milk: adds moisture and richness to the batter
• Half teaspoon baking powder: makes the coating puff up in the oven
• Quarter teaspoon salt: balances the flavors
• Quarter teaspoon black pepper: adds subtle heat
• Half cup shredded cheddar cheese: provides a sharp contrast topping
• Non-stick spray or butter for greasing: ensures easy release and prevents sticking

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.

Roast Peppers:

Roast the poblano peppers over an open flame or under a broiler, turning often so the skins char and blister evenly on all sides.

Steam Peppers:

Transfer the charred peppers to a bowl, cover it, and let them steam for several minutes so the skins loosen for easy peeling.

Peel and Stuff:

Peel off the skins carefully, then make a slit down one side of each pepper and remove the seeds. Stuff the peppers generously with shredded Monterey Jack cheese.

Arrange in Dish:

Arrange the stuffed peppers in a single layer inside the prepared baking dish.

Prepare Batter:

In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly. Add the flour, milk, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything until smooth and fully combined.

Pour Batter:

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the stuffed peppers in the dish.

Add Topping:

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top for a sharp, colorful finish.

Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the egg coating puffs up nicely.

Rest:

Allow the dish to rest and cool slightly before serving to let flavors settle.

Poblano peppers provide a smoky flavor that defines this dish and pairing Monterey Jack cheese gives a mild creaminess that balances the heat nicely. One memorable night, we served this recipe during a family gathering and everyone loved how it combined classic flavors in such an easy format.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the coating crisp and cheeses melty. This dish also freezes well if wrapped tightly and thawed overnight before baking again.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try using queso Oaxaca or mozzarella in place of Monterey Jack for a different melt texture. Substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste or use almond milk if you want a dairy-free option. Adjust seasonings if you enjoy more heat by adding cayenne or smoked paprika.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad, lime wedges, and a dollop of sour cream for contrast. Warm tortillas alongside can help scoop up the cheesy filling and offer a fuller meal experience.

This recipe is perfect for those who want a comforting yet easy Mexican-inspired dish. With simple steps and flavorful results, it’s a winner every time.

FAQs about Recipes

→ How do you peel the poblano peppers easily?

Char the peppers over a flame or under a broiler until the skin is blistered, then cover and steam to loosen the skin for easy peeling.

→ What cheeses work best for stuffing?

Monterey Jack provides a smooth melt inside, while shredded cheddar on top adds a sharp, golden crust when baked.

→ Can I adjust the spices in the batter?

Yes, you can add more black pepper, salt, or other seasonings to match your desired flavor intensity.

→ What is the purpose of baking powder in the mixture?

Baking powder helps the egg batter rise and puff during baking, giving a light, airy texture.

→ Is it better to roast peppers over flame or broiler?

Both methods effectively blister the skin, but roasting over an open flame typically imparts a smokier flavor.