Imagine waking up to the warm, inviting aroma of a cheesy, golden casserole filled with flavorful green chiles and fluffy eggs. Whether you’re hosting brunch, meal prepping for the week, or simply treating yourself to a special breakfast, cheesy green chile egg casserole is the ultimate comfort food. This dish brings together creamy cheese, fluffy eggs, and a touch of spice to create a meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Not only is this casserole easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile. With minimal prep time and a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that’s sure to impress your family, friends, or even just yourself.
What Is Cheesy Green Chile Egg Casserole?
Cheesy green chile egg casserole is a baked breakfast dish made with eggs, cheese, diced green chiles, and a few pantry staples. It’s creamy, savory, and loaded with flavor. The green chiles add a subtle heat and smoky kick, perfectly balanced by the richness of the cheese and eggs.
This casserole is a great choice for serving a crowd, as it can be made ahead and baked fresh in the morning. It’s also gluten-free (with a simple flour substitute) and can easily be customized to include your favorite ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time means more time to enjoy your morning.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and reheat slices throughout the week.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings, holiday brunches, or potlucks.
- Customizable: Add veggies, swap the cheese, or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- High in Protein: Eggs and cheese provide a protein-packed start to your day.
Ingredients for Cheesy Green Chile Egg Casserole
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Eggs | 1 dozen |
| All-purpose flour | ½ cup |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Small curd cottage cheese | 2 cups (1 pint) |
| Shredded Mexican blend cheese | 3 cups |
| Butter (melted) | 6 tablespoons |
| Diced green chiles (canned) | 2 (4 oz) cans |
How to Make Cheesy Green Chile Egg Casserole
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make this delicious and easy breakfast casserole.
Step 1: Gather and Prep Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl and whisk until smooth.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the whisked eggs, stirring until fully combined.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Chiles
- Fold the cottage cheese and shredded Mexican blend cheese into the egg mixture.
- Stir in the melted butter until fully incorporated.
- Drain the canned green chiles and add them to the mixture, mixing well.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- For a decorative touch, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Insert a toothpick into the center to check for doneness—it should come out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes.
- Slice into squares and serve warm. Pair with fresh fruit, salsa, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
Tips for the Best Green Chile Egg Casserole
- Drain the Chiles: Be sure to drain the green chiles thoroughly to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Shredding your own cheese ensures better melting and flavor.
- Grease the Dish: Properly greasing the dish prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the casserole in the last 5 minutes to avoid drying out the eggs.
- Customize the Add-ins: Feel free to add diced bell peppers, onions, cooked sausage, or bacon for extra texture and flavor.
Flavor Variations and Additions
- Add Protein: Include cooked sausage, diced ham, or crumbled bacon for a heartier casserole.
- Vegetarian Twist: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a veggie-packed version.
- Spicy Kick: Use spicy green chiles or add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Cheese Options: Swap the Mexican blend cheese for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a new flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair with a light green salad, fruit salad, or avocado slices for a balanced meal.
- Toppings: Add salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Bread: Serve with warm tortillas, toast, or a side of cornbread for a complete breakfast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Butter: Butter adds richness and helps the casserole bake evenly.
- Overmixing the Eggs: Mix just until combined to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Not Draining the Chiles: Excess liquid from the canned chiles can make the casserole watery.
- Using Low-Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Overbaking: Watch carefully toward the end of baking to avoid dry or overcooked eggs.
FAQs About Cheesy Green Chile Egg Casserole
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning.
Q2: Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Let the casserole cool completely, then slice into portions and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q3: Can I use fresh green chiles instead of canned?
Yes, roasted and diced fresh green chiles work beautifully. Just ensure they are peeled and deseeded before using.
Q4: Can I substitute the cottage cheese?
You can replace cottage cheese with ricotta or Greek yogurt for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Q6: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
Final Thoughts: Your New Favorite Breakfast Recipe
Cheesy green chile egg casserole is the ultimate combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and a hint of spice. Perfect for brunch, meal prep, or a comforting breakfast, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or savoring leftovers throughout the week, this casserole is sure to become a favorite.
So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a breakfast that’s bursting with flavor. Your mornings just got a whole lot better!
Print
Cheesy Green Chile Egg Casserole: A Flavorful and Easy Breakfast Dish
- Total Time: 55–60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
This cheesy green chile egg casserole is the perfect dish for breakfast or brunch. Packed with fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and the smoky spice of green chiles, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s simple to make. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or meal prepping for the week, this casserole delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 dozen eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups small curd cottage cheese (1 pint)
- 3 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 (4 oz.) cans diced green chiles
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- Crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl and whisk until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the whisked eggs, stirring until combined.
- Add Cheeses and Chiles:
- Fold in the cottage cheese and shredded Mexican blend cheese.
- Stir in the melted butter and the diced green chiles (ensure they are well-drained).
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings like salsa, sour cream, or fresh herbs.
Notes
- Chiles: For a spicier kick, use hot green chiles or add diced jalapeños.
- Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties, but either works for convenience.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
