Description
Cheesy Green Chile Egg Casserole
Ingredients
10 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 (4 oz) cans diced green chiles (drained)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Directions
Preheat: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Whisk the eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Layer the casserole: Spread the diced green chiles evenly in the greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese and 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
Pour the egg mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the cheese and green chiles. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top.
Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and golden brown on top. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Serve: Slice and enjoy as a savory breakfast or brunch dish!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Calories: 250 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time. First, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly grease your 9×13-inch dish with butter or non-stick spray. In your large bowl, whisk the eggs vigorously for a full minute before adding the sour cream, milk, and seasonings. Continue whisking until completely smooth and no streaks of sour cream remain. When layering, pat the drained green chiles with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, preventing a soggy casserole. Pour the egg mixture slowly to avoid disturbing the initial cheese layer. For the final bake, start checking at 30 minutes; the center should be just set with a slight jiggle.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile casserole pairs beautifully with various sides. For a classic brunch, serve with crispy hash browns, fresh fruit salad, and buttery toast or flaky biscuits. To add freshness, top individual slices with a dollop of cool salsa, sliced avocado, or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. For a heartier dinner option, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a lime vinaigrette. Leftovers reheat wonderfully and make excellent breakfast sandwiches on English muffins.
How-to Summary
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Whisk eggs, sour cream, milk, and seasonings until smooth. Layer drained green chiles and half the cheeses in the dish. Pour the egg mixture over the top, then sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes until golden and set. Let cool briefly before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake directly from the fridge, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Can I use fresh green chiles instead of canned? Yes. Roast, peel, and dice about 1 cup of fresh Hatch or Anaheim chiles. Ensure they are well-drained to prevent excess liquid.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked? The edges should be golden brown and pulling away from the dish. The center should be set; a knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
Can I freeze this egg casserole? It’s possible but not ideal, as the texture of the eggs and dairy can become slightly grainy upon thawing and reheating. For best quality, enjoy fresh or refrigerated.
What are good cheese substitutes? Pepper Jack adds more heat. A Mexican cheese blend or Colby Jack also works well. For a milder flavor, use all mild cheddar.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overmixing the egg base once the cheese is added, as this can lead to a dense texture. Do not forget to drain the canned green chiles thoroughly; excess liquid is the primary cause of a watery casserole. Resist the urge to open the oven door frequently during baking, as this causes temperature fluctuations and can prevent proper rising and setting. Finally, do not skip the brief cooling period after baking—this allows the casserole to firm up for cleaner slices.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Green Chile Egg Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfectly balancing creamy, cheesy richness with the gentle kick of green chiles. Its straightforward preparation and make-ahead flexibility make it a reliable star for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or even a simple dinner. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a consistently delicious and satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Enjoy the comfort and flavor of this easy, cheesy bake.