Baked Chili Rellanos

### Instructions: How to Make Baked Chili Rellenos

#### Step 1: Roast the Peppers
Start by roasting the **Poblano peppers**. You can do this by placing them directly on a gas burner, under the broiler in your oven, or on a grill. Turn the peppers occasionally until the skins are charred and blistered all over (about 5-10 minutes).

Once roasted, place the peppers in a bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let them steam for 10 minutes — this helps loosen the skin, making it easier to peel. Afterward, peel the skin off gently, and cut a small slit down the side of each pepper. Carefully remove the seeds and membranes inside (using gloves can make this easier).

#### Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the **shredded cheese**, **crumbled queso fresco**, **chopped onion**, **garlic powder**, **ground cumin**, **chili powder**, and a pinch of **salt and pepper**. Mix everything together until the cheese and seasonings are evenly distributed.

#### Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Once the peppers have been cleaned and the filling is ready, stuff each pepper with the cheese mixture. Be generous with the filling, but be sure not to overstuff so that the peppers can be closed without bursting. Arrange the stuffed peppers in a greased baking dish.

#### Step 4: Prepare the Sauce (Optional)
If you’d like to serve your baked chili rellenos with a tasty tomato sauce, simply combine the **diced tomatoes**, **ground cumin**, **chili powder**, **garlic powder**, and salt and pepper in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is warm and slightly thickened. This step is optional but adds a wonderful layer of flavor that complements the peppers.

#### Step 5: Bake the Chili Rellenos
Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Place the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven and bake for **20-25 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the peppers are tender. You can also add a sprinkle of cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking to get a crispy, cheesy crust.

#### Step 6: Serve
Once the chili rellenos are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and serve hot. Spoon the optional tomato sauce over the top for an extra burst of flavor, or serve them as is for a more classic presentation.

### Tips for the Best Baked Chili Rellenos

– **Choose the Right Peppers**: Poblano peppers are commonly used for chili rellenos because of their mild heat and perfect size. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can use Anaheim or jalapeño peppers.

– **Vary the Filling**: While cheese is a classic filling, you can add cooked **ground beef**, **chicken**, or **chorizo** for a meatier option. You can also add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and texture.

– **Make It Saucy**: If you love sauce, add a generous amount of homemade enchilada or tomato sauce to the baking dish to keep the peppers moist and add extra flavor during baking.

– **Top It Off**: For an added burst of freshness, sprinkle the baked chili rellenos with **fresh cilantro**, **sour cream**, or **salsa** just before serving.

– **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the chili rellenos up to a day in advance. Stuff the peppers, cover with plastic wrap, and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready, simply bake them as directed. This makes for a great make-ahead dish for busy days or when hosting a dinner party.

### Serving Suggestions

Baked chili rellenos are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides:

– **Rice**: Serve with a side of **Mexican rice** or **cilantro-lime rice** for a hearty meal.
– **Beans**: Pair with **refried beans** or **black beans** for a delicious and filling combination.
– **Guacamole and Chips**: Add a side of creamy **guacamole** and tortilla chips for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
– **Salad**: A light **green salad** or **corn salad** can complement the rich flavors of the baked peppers.

### Final Thoughts: A Healthier Take on a Classic

**Baked chili rellenos** provide all the comfort and flavor of the classic deep-fried version, but without the extra calories and mess. They’re simple to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a fan of cheese, want to add some meat to the mix, or are just looking for a healthy Mexican dish, this baked version is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Give this recipe a try the next time you crave a flavorful, comforting meal—your taste buds will thank you!