Delicious Baked Beef Chiles Rellenos Casserole (Print version)

Roasted poblanos layered with seasoned beef, tomatoes, and cheese for a hearty baked chile relleno casserole.

# Ingredients:

For the poblanos

01 - 6 large poblano peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded
02 - Cooking spray or 1 tablespoon neutral oil for the baking dish

For the beef filling

03 - 1 1/2 lb (680 g) lean ground beef
04 - 1 large yellow onion, chopped
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 tablespoon chili powder
07 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
08 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
09 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
10 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
11 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
13 - 1/4 teaspoon ground chipotle pepper, optional
14 - 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes with green chiles, lightly drained

For layering and serving

15 - 3 cups (340 g) shredded Mexican cheese blend or Monterey Jack
16 - Sour cream, pico de gallo, and chopped cilantro for serving, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Set an oven rack about 6 inches from the broiler and heat the broiler. Place poblano halves cut-side down on a foil-lined sheet pan and broil for 5-8 minutes, until blistered and dark in spots.
02 - Transfer the hot peppers to a bowl and cover for 10 minutes. Rub off most of the skins, then drain the peppers on paper towels.
03 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne, and chipotle. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking up the beef, until no pink remains.
04 - Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chiles. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the filling is thick and most loose liquid has cooked off. Taste and adjust salt.
05 - Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Layer one-third of the poblanos, one-third of the beef mixture, and 1 cup cheese. Repeat twice, ending with cheese.
06 - Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until bubbling at the edges and golden on top. Rest for 10-15 minutes before serving with sour cream, pico de gallo, or cilantro.

# Good to know:

01 - Resting after baking helps the casserole hold its layers.
02 - Use large poblanos for easier layering in a 9x13-inch dish.
03 - Simmer the filling until thick to avoid a watery casserole.

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