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A thick slice of cheesy jalapeno egg casserole loaded with spinach on a plate.

Hearty Chile Relleno Casserole Crockpot

Enjoy the comforting flavors of classic chile relleno in an easy-to-make crockpot casserole. Layers of roasted poblano peppers, melted cheese, and a rich egg custard cook to perfection in your slow cooker, making for a delicious and hassle-free meal.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican, Southwestern
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole Base
  • 6-8 poblano peppers large, fresh (see notes for canned alternative)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray, for greasing
  • 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese shredded
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup white onion diced (optional)
For the Egg Custard
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk whole or 2%
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free alternative
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
For Serving (Optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup salsa your favorite

Equipment

  • 6-Quart Slow Cooker
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Baking sheet (if using fresh poblanos)

Method
 

Prepare the Poblano Peppers
  1. If using fresh poblano peppers: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your broiler. Place the poblanos on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until their skins are blistered and charred. Alternatively, broil for 5-7 minutes, turning once, until charred. Transfer the hot chiles to a bowl, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and let them steam for 10-15 minutes. Once cooled, carefully peel off the skins, remove stems and seeds, and roughly chop the peppers into 1-inch pieces. If using canned diced green chiles (2 cans, 7 oz each), simply drain them well.
Assemble the Casserole Layers
  1. Lightly grease the inside of your 6-quart slow cooker with olive oil or cooking spray.
  2. Spread half of the chopped chiles evenly on the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle with half of the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses. Repeat with the remaining chiles and cheeses, creating two distinct layers of each. If using, sprinkle the diced white onion over the chile and cheese layers.
Prepare and Add the Egg Custard
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, salt, pepper, ground cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
  2. Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers of chiles and cheese in the slow cooker. Gently shake the slow cooker a few times to ensure the egg mixture settles into all the crevices.
Cook and Serve
  1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours, or on HIGH for 2 to 2.5 hours. The casserole is done when the center is set, and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. The edges should appear golden and slightly bubbly.
  2. Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let the casserole rest, covered, for 15-20 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the casserole to set further, making it easier to slice and serve.
  3. Garnish individual servings with chopped fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a side of salsa, if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

For a milder casserole, consider using Anaheim peppers instead of poblanos. If you prefer more heat, you can add a finely diced jalapeño to the egg mixture. This casserole is excellent for meal prep; leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheated gently in the microwave or oven. Serving suggestions include a side of refried beans, Mexican rice, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.