Simple Hatch Chile Rellenos are delicious stuffed peppers filled with cheese and more! The sweet heat from Hatch chiles makes this dish really special and perfect for sharing.
I’m always amazed at how easy it is to make these! Just roast, stuff, and bake. They’re a hit at any meal, plus they’re a fun treat that adds color to the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hatch Green Chiles: These peppers have a unique flavor that ranges from mild to medium heat. If you can’t find Hatch chiles, try using poblano peppers or Anaheim chiles as good substitutes.
Monterey Jack Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, making it ideal for stuffing. You can use a blend of cheeses like Cheddar or Pepper Jack for an extra kick.
Red Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought sauce saves time, but if you prefer homemade, combine tomato sauce with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic. Just adjust to your taste!
Fresh Cilantro: This herb adds a fresh finish to the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, feel free to garnish with green onions or omit it altogether!
How Do I Roast Hatch Chiles to Get the Best Flavor?
Roasting Hatch chiles is key as it brings out their sweet, smoky flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Turn your oven to the broil setting or use an open flame on a gas stovetop.
- Lightly coat the chiles in vegetable oil for even roasting and better flavor.
- Place the chiles directly on the flame or under the broiler, turning frequently until the skins are blackened and blistered.
- Once roasted, put them in a sealed plastic bag or covered bowl for about 10-15 minutes. This steaming helps loosen the skin.
- Carefully peel the skins off after they’ve steamed for easier handling.
Taking your time with this step guarantees the best flavor for your chile rellenos!
Simple Hatch Chile Rellenos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large Hatch green chiles
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a cheese blend of your choice)
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cooked Mexican-style rice (for serving)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for roasting chiles)
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus about 20 minutes to bake. Overall, you can expect to spend around 35-40 minutes to enjoy your tasty Hatch Chile Rellenos!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your dish will cook evenly and get a lovely golden color.
2. Roast the Chiles:
Next, roast the Hatch chiles. You can do this over an open flame on your stovetop or under the broiler in your oven. Turn them frequently until the skins are charred and blistered all over. Once roasted, place the chiles in a sealed plastic bag or covered bowl for about 10-15 minutes to steam. This step makes peeling easier! Carefully peel off the blackened skins, avoiding rinsing with water to keep that delicious flavor intact.
3. Prepare the Chiles for Stuffing:
Once peeled, make a gentle slit lengthwise down one side of each chile. Carefully remove the seeds and membranes while keeping the pepper intact. This helps reduce the heat while still allowing for flavor.
4. Stuff the Chiles:
Now it’s time to stuff each chile with shredded cheese. Distribute the cheese evenly but don’t overfill them; you want to be able to close them up easily!
5. Set Up for Baking:
Pour about half of the enchilada sauce into a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Arrange the stuffed chiles on top of the sauce, making sure they are snug.
6. Add the Remaining Sauce:
Spoon the remaining enchilada sauce over the stuffed chiles. Feel free to sprinkle a little extra cheese on top if you’re a cheese lover!
7. Bake Until Perfect:
Bake your creation in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the chiles are heated through. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the chiles out of the oven and garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch.
9. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your delicious Hatch Chile Rellenos hot, with a side of Mexican-style rice. Every bite will be a delightful combination of flavors!
Enjoy your simple and flavorful Hatch Chile Rellenos!
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Can I Use Other Types of Chiles for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If Hatch chiles aren’t available, you can use poblano or Anaheim chiles. They have a similar flavor profile and will work well for stuffing.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian with just cheese. If you want to add more to the filling, consider incorporating black beans or corn for added texture and flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze Chiles After Stuffing?
You can freeze the stuffed chiles before baking! Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed until they are thoroughly heated.
