Green Chile Egg Casserole is a beloved family recipe known for its ease and delightful Southwest flavor. Perfect for holidays like Christmas, Easter, or Mother’s Day, this overnight breakfast casserole simplifies your morning routine. With its mild taste and make-ahead convenience, it’s a go-to dish for any special occasion.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

¼ cup butter, melted
10 large eggs
1 (7 oz) can diced green chiles (mild)
24 oz small curd cottage cheese
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
16 oz shredded Colby Jack or cheddar cheese

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pour half of the melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring the bottom is coated.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, diced green chiles, cottage cheese, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until fully incorporated.
Fold in the shredded cheese until evenly distributed.
Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the top of the mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden and the eggs are fully set.
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

Calories: 506
Total Fat: 35.9g
Saturated Fat: (value not specified)
Cholesterol: 243.4mg
Sodium: 1420.8mg
Total Carbohydrates: 8.9g
Dietary Fiber: 0.7g
Sugars: 1.4g
Protein: 35.9g

History and Origin of the Green Chile Egg Casserole

The Green Chile Egg Casserole originates from the Southwestern United States, a region known for its bold flavors, especially the use of green chiles. Green chiles are a staple in many Southwestern dishes, prized for their mild to medium heat and distinctive smoky flavor. These chiles pair beautifully with eggs and cheese, making them a perfect addition to a breakfast casserole.

Over time, this casserole has become a go-to recipe for special occasions and everyday family meals. Its origins are tied to the simplicity and practicality of Southwestern cooking, where hearty, flavorful meals are easy to prepare and often serve a crowd. The casserole is particularly popular in New Mexico, Arizona, and other parts of the Southwest, but its appeal has spread beyond this region due to its delicious taste and convenience.

Why Green Chile Egg Casserole is a Perfect Breakfast Option

Breakfast is often considered the most important meal of the day, and the Green Chile Egg Casserole certainly fits the bill. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this casserole offers a great way to fuel your body and start your day on the right foot. Eggs are an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, and choline. The addition of cottage cheese enhances the dish’s protein content while also contributing a creamy texture.

The green chiles not only add a kick of flavor but also provide a dose of vitamins, particularly vitamin C and antioxidants. The casserole is also incredibly satisfying, thanks to the generous amount of cheese and eggs. It can be eaten on its own or paired with sides like fresh fruit, avocado, or a light salad for a complete and balanced breakfast.

Furthermore, this casserole is an easy make-ahead dish, which makes it perfect for busy mornings or large gatherings. If you’re hosting a brunch or a holiday breakfast, you can assemble the casserole the night before, store it in the fridge, and then bake it in the morning. This saves you time and effort, especially when you’re trying to juggle multiple dishes.

The Versatility of Green Chile Egg Casserole

One of the standout features of the Green Chile Egg Casserole is its versatility. While the classic recipe uses green chiles, you can easily adapt the dish by adding other ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For example, you can swap the cheese for a dairy-free alternative, such as vegan cheese or nutritional yeast, if you prefer a non-dairy version. You can also include other vegetables, like spinach, bell peppers, or onions, to boost the nutritional content and add more flavors.

For those who prefer a heartier dish, you can add cooked sausage, bacon, or ground turkey to the casserole. This will introduce more protein and richness, making the dish even more filling. If you’re a fan of spicy food, you can increase the heat by adding jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or hotter varieties of green chiles. The beauty of the Green Chile Egg Casserole is that you can make it as simple or as complex as you like, tailoring it to your personal preferences.

Additionally, this casserole can be customized to fit different dietary restrictions. If you’re following a gluten-free diet, simply use gluten-free flour or omit the flour altogether. You can also experiment with various types of cheese, from sharp cheddar to Monterey Jack, depending on what you have available or what you prefer.

Green Chile Egg Casserole as a Make-Ahead Meal

One of the greatest benefits of the Green Chile Egg Casserole is that it can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal dish for busy individuals or families. You can prepare the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it the next morning. This method not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together overnight, making the dish even more flavorful.

To prepare the casserole in advance, simply assemble it as instructed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before placing it in the preheated oven. This will help the casserole cook more evenly. Baking times may vary slightly when using refrigerated ingredients, so be sure to check for doneness by looking for a golden-brown top and firm eggs.

How to Serve Green Chile Egg Casserole

Green Chile Egg Casserole is delicious on its own but can also be served with a variety of sides. Fresh fruit, such as sliced oranges, strawberries, or melon, can add a refreshing contrast to the savory casserole. For a more filling meal, consider serving the casserole with a side of hash browns, roasted potatoes, or a light green salad. If you enjoy salsa or guacamole, these make excellent accompaniments to enhance the Southwest flavor profile of the dish.

Additionally, for those who enjoy a bit of crunch, tortilla chips can be served on the side or sprinkled on top of the casserole just before baking to create a crunchy topping. If you’re serving this casserole at a brunch or holiday meal, consider offering a variety of condiments, such as sour cream, hot sauce, or diced avocado, to allow your guests to customize their portions.

Conclusion: A Crowd-Pleasing Breakfast Favorite

The Green Chile Egg Casserole is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s a versatile, make-ahead meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a quick breakfast for yourself, this casserole is sure to please. Its combination of eggs, cheese, and green chiles creates a flavorful and hearty dish that is both satisfying and nourishing.

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