This Green Chile Egg Casserole is a warm and cheesy dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. Packed with eggs, green chiles, and cheese, it’s super tasty and easy to make!
Plus, it’s a great way to use up those leftover veggies! I love popping it in the oven and enjoying the yummy smell while it bakes. Who doesn’t love a meal that makes the house smell amazing?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are standard for this casserole because they provide great structure. If you’re looking for a lighter version, egg whites can be used in place of some or all of the eggs.
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess, but 2% or even almond milk can work too. For a richer taste, try half-and-half!
Green Chiles: These can be fresh, canned, or roasted. You can swap in jalapeños if you want more heat, or even bell peppers for a milder flavor.
Cheese: Cheddar is delicious, but feel free to mix it up! Pepper jack cheese adds a kick, while Monterey Jack makes it creamy. Vegan cheese options are also available for dairy-free diets.
Onions: Chopped onions add flavor, but if you don’t have them, green onions or shallots are excellent substitutions. You can skip them altogether if you prefer.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure a Perfectly Baked Casserole?
Baking this casserole is mostly hands-off, but you want to ensure it’s cooked evenly. Follow these tips for success:
- Preheating the oven is crucial. Make sure it’s fully heated before placing the casserole inside.
- Use a reliable oven thermometer; sometimes, temperatures can be off and impact cooking time.
- Check the casserole by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when it’s done.
- Letting it rest after baking helps set the eggs and makes cutting into squares easier.
Remember, if you like a runny yolk, add those cracked eggs at the end, but keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
Green Chile Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 10 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup green chiles, roasted and chopped (mild or hot depending on preference)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Butter or cooking spray (to grease the baking dish)
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes to bake, making it a quick and satisfying dish to whip up for breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, take a 9×9 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This will help keep your casserole from sticking.
2. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large bowl, crack the 10 large eggs and add 1 cup of milk. Using a whisk, beat them together until everything is well blended and nice and frothy.
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Now it’s time to stir in the fun stuff! Add in the chopped green chiles, shredded cheese, chopped onions (if you’re using them), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cumin. Mix everything together well—this will help distribute all the flavors throughout the casserole.
4. Pour and Bake:
Pour the delicious egg mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Slide it into your preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. You want the casserole to be set in the center and lightly browned on top.
5. Optional Egg Top:
If you love a sunny-side-up touch, now’s your chance! About 10 minutes before it’s done baking, you can crack a few whole eggs right on top of the casserole. They’ll bake nicely on top for a beautiful presentation.
6. Let It Rest and Serve:
When the casserole is done baking, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps it settle and makes cutting easier. Once it’s cooled a bit, cut it into squares. Garnish with the chopped green onions or chives for a pop of freshness.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Green Chile Egg Casserole warm on its own or with sides like warm tortillas, salsa, or slices of avocado. This dish is sure to be a hit!
Enjoy this savory, cheesy breakfast casserole perfect for brunch or anytime!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a dairy-free cheese can work well in this casserole.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just pour it into the baking dish when you’re ready to bake, and you may need to slightly increase the baking time if it’s chilled.
What Should I Serve With This Casserole?
This casserole pairs beautifully with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, and sliced avocado. You can also serve it with a light salad for a complete meal!