Crispy Cheese-Stuffed Chile Rellenos
Experience the delightful combination of crispy, golden tortillas encasing warm, gooey Monterey Jack cheese and mild green chilies in these Crispy Cheese-Stuffed Chile Rellenos. Perfect for those who enjoy flavorful Mexican cuisine without the heat, this recipe allows for a versatile preparation method—choose between frying for an extra crunch or baking for a healthier option. Pair them with salsa and your favorite sides like refried beans and Mexican rice for a complete meal that brings the taste of Mexico to your table. This dish is not only easy to make, but it also requires minimal cleanup, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining friends and family!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Flour tortillas
4 (8-inch or 13-inch sizes, softened)
Canned green chilies
2 (4-ounce) cans (whole or chopped)
Monterey Jack cheese
2 cups (shredded)
Salsa
2 cups (mild to hot, for serving)
Oil
as needed (for frying (optional))
Toothpicks
as needed
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Cheese-Stuffed Chile Rellenos?
They are a variation of the traditional Mexican dish featuring flour tortillas filled with Monterey Jack cheese and green chilies, then fried or baked until golden and crispy.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this recipe uses mild green chilies, making it flavorful without being overly hot.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian as it focuses on cheese and chilies as the primary filling.
What size tortillas should I use?
You can use either 8-inch or 13-inch flour tortillas depending on how large you want the portions to be.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
While flour tortillas provide the best texture for this specific recipe, you can use corn, though they may require more care to prevent tearing.
What is the best cheese for Chile Rellenos?
Monterey Jack is recommended because it melts beautifully and has a mild flavor that complements the green chilies.
Can I substitute the Monterey Jack cheese?
Yes, you can use Mozzarella, Mild Cheddar, or Pepper Jack if you want a bit more spice.
Should I use whole or chopped green chilies?
You can use either; whole chilies provide a more traditional texture while chopped chilies are easier to distribute evenly.
Do I need to use fresh chilies?
This recipe specifically calls for canned green chilies for convenience, but you can use roasted and peeled fresh chilies if preferred.
How much salsa do I need for serving?
The recipe suggests having 2 cups of your favorite salsa available for dipping or topping.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier option that still results in a delicious, crispy texture.
How do I fry the stuffed tortillas?
Heat a small amount of oil in a pan and fry the tortillas on all sides until they are golden brown and the cheese inside has melted.
What kind of oil should I use for frying?
A neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil, works best.
Can I use an air fryer for this recipe?
Yes, an air fryer is a great middle-ground that provides frying-level crispiness with very little oil.
Why are toothpicks needed?
Toothpicks are used to secure the tortillas so they don't unroll while being fried or baked.
How do I soften the tortillas?
You can soften them by heating them briefly in the microwave for a few seconds or on a warm griddle until they are pliable.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the tortillas and keep them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Make sure to roll the tortillas tightly and secure the ends with toothpicks to keep the melting cheese contained.
What sides go well with Chile Rellenos?
They pair perfectly with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh garden salad.
What type of salsa should I serve?
You can use any salsa ranging from mild to hot, depending on your personal heat preference.
Is this a main course or an appetizer?
It can be served as a satisfying main course or as a hearty appetizer for a larger group.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
How do I reheat them to keep them crispy?
Reheating in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F is the best way to restore the crunch.
Can I freeze these?
Yes, you can freeze them after assembly but before cooking; just thaw slightly before frying or baking.
Can I add meat to the filling?
Certainly! Cooked shredded chicken, ground beef, or chorizo would make excellent additions to the cheese and chili filling.
How can I make the recipe extra spicy?
Use hot salsa for dipping and add fresh diced jalapeños or habaneros to the cheese mixture.
Are 13-inch tortillas too big?
Not at all; 13-inch tortillas make for a very filling, burrito-sized portion.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is designed to be simple with minimal steps and easy-to-find ingredients.
Does this recipe require a lot of cleanup?
No, it requires very few dishes and minimal cleanup, especially if you choose the baking method.
What is the overall texture of the dish?
The dish features a satisfying crunch on the outside with a soft, gooey, and warm center.