This Poblano Pepper and Cheese Casserole is a vibrant, cheesy, and flavorful dish that combines roasted poblano peppers with a rich tomato sauce and creamy egg-and-cheese mixture. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, this casserole is packed with smoky, spicy, and savory flavors. Topped with melted cheese and garnished with fresh herbs, it’s a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal!
📋 Ingredients
- 10 poblano peppers
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 jalapeño pepper , chopped
- 1 medium onion , chopped
- 4 cloves garlic , chopped
- 1 pound fresh tomatoes , chopped (canned tomatoes work as well)
- 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ancho powder (or chili powder)
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper , to taste
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a mix)
- For garnish: Spicy chili flakes and fresh herbs
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Broiler
- Set your oven to broil. Slice the poblano peppers in half lengthwise and place them on a lightly oiled baking sheet, skin sides up.
- Broil for about 10 minutes , or until the skins are charred and blackened. The peppers should puff up slightly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Peel off the skins, then discard the seeds and stems. Slice the roasted poblanos into strips (or roughly chop them) and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sauce
- While the peppers are broiling, heat olive oil in a 10-inch ovenproof skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and jalapeño , and cook for about 5 minutes , stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute , until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Tomato Mixture
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes , Mexican oregano , paprika , ancho powder , cumin , salt , and pepper . Break apart the tomatoes with a spoon and mix everything together.
- Cook on medium-low heat for about 10 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are softened and the sauce has thickened. For a thicker sauce, simmer for a few additional minutes.
- Transfer the sauce to a glass bowl and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
- In the same skillet (or a baking dish if preferred), spread half of the tomato sauce over the bottom.
- Layer with half of the roasted poblano strips and half of the shredded cheese .
- Add the remaining tomato sauce , followed by the rest of the poblano peppers and most of the remaining cheese , reserving a small amount for topping.
Step 5: Add the Egg Mixture
- Beat the eggs in a small bowl and mix with the reserved cheese.
- Pour this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 6: Bake
- Place the skillet (or baking dish) in the oven and bake for 25 minutes , or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with spicy chili flakes and fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve warm and enjoy this cheesy, smoky delight!
Tips for Success
- Broiling Peppers: If you’re short on time, you can roast the poblanos directly over a gas stovetop flame or use jarred roasted poblanos.
- Cheese Variations: Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, and cheddar for a richer flavor profile.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by using fewer jalapeños or omitting the seeds for a milder dish.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat in the oven or microwave for best results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Poblano Pepper and Cheese Casserole is a celebration of bold flavors and textures. The smoky roasted poblanos pair beautifully with the rich tomato sauce, while the creamy egg-and-cheese mixture ties everything together. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Dive into this cheesy, spicy, and satisfying casserole and let it become a staple in your recipe collection!
⏱ Time
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 5 minutes
🍽 Servings:
6–8 servings
🔥 Calories (Approximate):
~300 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size and cheese type)