How to Make a Mexican Roasted Poblano and Cheese Casserole

Mexican cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors and comforting dishes. One standout recipe that embodies these qualities is the Mexican Roasted Poblano and Cheese Casserole. This dish combines the smoky sweetness of roasted poblano peppers with the creamy goodness of cheese, creating a hearty meal perfect for any occasion. Follow these simple steps to make a delicious casserole that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

To prepare a Mexican Roasted Poblano and Cheese Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• 4-5 large poblano peppers
• 1 cup of cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup of black beans (canned, drained, and rinsed)
• 2 cups of shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
• 1 cup of sour cream
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon of cumin powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Poblano Peppers

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the poblano peppers on a baking sheet and roast them for about 20-25 minutes, or until the skins are blistered and charred. Once roasted, transfer the peppers to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap to steam. This step will make peeling the skins easier. After about 10 minutes, peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and chop the peppers into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, corn, black beans, chopped roasted poblano peppers, 1.5 cups of shredded cheese, sour cream, eggs, cumin powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. This mixture will form the heart of your casserole.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Pour the casserole mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Top the casserole with the remaining 0.5 cup of shredded cheese for an irresistible cheesy topping.

Step 4: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are lightly golden. For an extra crispy top, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve the Mexican Roasted Poblano and Cheese Casserole warm, alongside a simple green salad or tortilla chips.

Tips for the Best Casserole

• Feel free to customize your casserole by adding other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or tomatoes.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, try adding chopped jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese.
• This casserole can be made ahead of time. Simply assemble it, cover, and refrigerate until you are ready to bake.

This Mexican Roasted Poblano and Cheese Casserole is a delightful dish that showcases the rich flavors of Mexico while being easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it offers a comforting taste that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!