Cheesy Poblano Layered Casserole (Printable Version)

A comforting dish with roasted chilies, seasoned beef, and melted cheese that captures authentic Mexican flavors with minimal effort.

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 8 whole green chiles, roasted and peeled (preferably poblano)
02 - 1 pound ground beef
03 - 1 cup finely chopped onion
04 - 2 cups shredded Monterey jack cheese
05 - 2 cups corn tortilla chips
06 - 1 ½ cups refried beans

→ Topping Mixture

07 - 4 eggs, beaten
08 - ¼ cup all-purpose flour
09 - 2 teaspoons hot sauce
10 - ½ cup whole milk
11 - ¼ teaspoon paprika
12 - ¼ teaspoon onion powder
13 - Salt to taste

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, flour, milk, hot sauce, paprika, onion powder, and salt until smooth. Set aside.
03 - In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions until the meat is browned and the onions are soft. Stir in the refried beans and mix well to combine.
04 - Layer half of the tortilla chips in the prepared baking dish, followed by half of the meat mixture, half of the chiles (laid open), and half of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining chiles on top.
05 - Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
06 - Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to set properly.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Use roasted poblano peppers for the best smoky flavor, though canned whole green chiles work well as a substitute
02 - Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties
03 - For variation, try cheddar, pepper jack, or a cheese blend
04 - Flour tortillas can substitute for corn chips for a softer texture
05 - Add cumin or garlic powder to the meat for extra depth of flavor
06 - For a spicier version, incorporate chopped jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese
07 - Create a vegetarian version by omitting beef and using extra beans or sautéed mushrooms
08 - Serve with garnishes like sour cream, salsa, or fresh cilantro
09 - For a brunch variation, substitute breakfast sausage for the ground beef
10 - The casserole can be assembled the night before and refrigerated until baking time
11 - Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
12 - Freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw completely before reheating
13 - Reheat in microwave or at 350°F (175°C) until thoroughly heated