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–+ servings
Cheesy Green Chile Tortilla Bake – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Cheesy Green Chile Tortilla Bake

A savory bread pudding-like casserole with corn tortillas, zesty green chiles, and gooey Monterey Jack cheese, soaked in a rich buttermilk custard. Perfect for brunch, potlucks, or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 284 serving
Calories: 284

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup (150 g / 5.3 oz) chopped onion (about 1 large)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml / 0.5 fl oz) vegetable oil
  • 12 6-inch corn tortillas, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 cups (8 oz) / 226g shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 4-ounce / 113g (4 oz) cans diced green chile peppers, undrained
  • 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 cups (480 ml) buttermilk
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ⅛ teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
  • Salsa, for serving (optional)
  • Make it Ahead:** Assemble the entire casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the bake time.
  • Customize Your Casserole:** Feel free to add a can of drained black beans or 1 cup (240 ml) of corn between the layers for extra texture and protein. A mix of Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar cheese is also delicious.
  • DIY Buttermilk:** No buttermilk? To make 2 cups (480 ml) of sour milk, place 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar in a glass measuring cup. Add enough milk to reach the 2-cup line, stir, and let it stand for 5 minutes to curdle before using.

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
  3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
  4. While the onions cook, grease a 2-quart rectangular baking dish. Create your first layer by spreading half of the tortilla pieces across the bottom.
  5. Top evenly with half of the shredded cheese and one can of the undrained green chiles.
  6. Sprinkle the cooked onion and garlic mixture over the top.
  7. Create the second layer by topping with the remaining tortilla pieces, the rest of the cheese, and the second can of green chiles.
  8. In a large bowl, whisk together the lightly beaten eggs, buttermilk, salt, black pepper, cumin, and crushed oregano until well combined. Gently and evenly pour this custard mixture over the layers in the baking dish.
  9. Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes. The casserole is done when the center is set (a knife inserted near the center comes out clean) and the edges are bubbly and lightly browned.
  10. Let the casserole stand for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows it to set up perfectly.
  11. Top with fresh salsa, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 284kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 15gFat: 15g

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