Cheesy Green Chile Bean Bake Recipe

Cheesy Green Chile Bean Bake is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy beans, spicy green chiles, and gooey cheese makes it a crowd-pleasing casserole that can be served as a side dish or as a main course for a meatless meal. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and can be adjusted to suit your taste.

Cheesy Green Chile Bean Bake Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed (you can also use black beans or kidney beans)
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles, undrained
• 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• 1/2 cup milk (you can use cream for a richer dish)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing the onion)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
• Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish (optional)
• Crushed tortilla chips (optional for extra crunch, or you can use breadcrumbs)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish with cooking spray or a little oil.

2. Sauté the Onion:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent. If you prefer a bit more flavor, you can add a pinch of salt and pepper while sautéing.

3. Prepare the Bean Mixture:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed pinto beans, sautéed onion, diced green chiles (with their liquid), sour cream, milk, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

4. Transfer to Baking Dish:

• Spoon the bean mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

5. Add Toppings:

• Sprinkle the top with the mozzarella cheese and, if you like, top with a handful of crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs for an added crunchy texture.

6. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. If you added tortilla chips or breadcrumbs, they should be lightly browned and crispy.

7. Garnish and Serve:

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Green Chile Bean Bake:

• Spice Level: If you like it spicier, add some jalapeño slices or hot sauce to the bean mixture. You can also use hot green chiles instead of mild for extra heat.
• Bean Variations: You can use any type of beans in this recipe, such as black beans, kidney beans, or even white beans like Great Northern or cannellini beans. Adjust the cooking time slightly if you’re using beans that are not pre-cooked (canned).
• Add-ins: To make the dish even heartier, consider adding some cooked ground turkey, chicken, or chorizo. It would also work well with sautéed bell peppers or corn for added texture and flavor.
• Vegan Version: For a vegan version, use dairy-free sour cream, vegan cheese, and plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk). Make sure the tortillas or breadcrumbs you use are also vegan.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the Cheesy Green Chile Bean Bake with a side of Mexican rice, guacamole, or salsa.
• This dish can be served as a side with grilled meats or tacos, or it can be a main dish paired with a light salad.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

This Cheesy Green Chile Bean Bake is an easy-to-make, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or making it the star of the meal, it’s a perfect addition to any gathering. Enjoy!