Cheesy Green Chile Corn Casserole

Ingredients:

corn tortillas

salted butter

green chile,

onion,

garlic

lots of fresh cracked black pepper

corn

cubed cream cheese

shredded asadero

medium cheddar

crispy bacon

Instructions:

This is a delicious side dish or serve with warm corn tortillas for tacos.

In my cast iron skillet I melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter and sauté green chile, onion, garlic and lots of fresh cracked black pepper.

Add corn, today I used one bag from the freezer, fresh or canned works well too.

Once hot I stir in 3 tablespoons cubed cream cheese, shredded asadero and medium cheddar then finished under a broiler.

This is also delicious with some crispy bacon on top.

For Thanksgiving I triple the recipe and it’s always one of the first things to go.

Notes:

Versatile Dish: This casserole works as a delicious side dish or as a filling for warm corn tortilla tacos, offering flexibility in serving options.

Preparation Method: The recipe is prepared in a cast iron skillet, enhancing the flavors and textures. However, it can also be made in other oven-safe dishes.

Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of green chile, onion, garlic, and fresh cracked black pepper provides a robust and aromatic base for the dish.

Customizable Cheese Blend: The use of a blend of cubed cream cheese, shredded asadero, and medium cheddar cheeses creates a creamy and flavorful cheese mixture. Other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack can be substituted for asadero if needed.

Optional Bacon Topping: Adding crispy bacon on top provides a savory and crunchy element to the casserole, but it can be omitted for a vegetarian version without compromising flavor.

Make-Ahead Option: The casserole can be assembled ahead of time, refrigerated, and broiled just before serving, making it a convenient option for busy days or holiday meals.

Ingredient Substitutions: Flour tortillas can be used instead of corn tortillas, and frozen corn can be substituted for fresh or canned corn. Adjusting the spiciness is easy by choosing mild or hot varieties of green chiles.

Nutrition Information: With 280 calories per serving, this casserole offers a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats. It’s relatively high in saturated fat and sodium due to the cheese and butter content, so portion control may be considered for those watching their intake of these nutrients.

Popular for Gatherings: Tripling the recipe makes it perfect for larger gatherings, and it’s noted as a favorite dish, often one of the first to disappear at Thanksgiving dinners.

Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon. Roasted vegetables or additional spices can be added to enhance the flavor profile.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1 serving (assuming a yield of 6 servings)

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas in this recipe?

While corn tortillas are traditionally used, you can experiment with flour tortillas if you prefer.

Keep in mind that it might alter the texture and flavor slightly.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of broiling and refrigerate.

When ready to serve, pop it under the broiler until bubbly and golden.

What type of green chile works best for this recipe?

You can use mild or hot green chiles, depending on your preference.

Hatch green chiles are popular, but any variety you like will work well.

Is there a substitute for asadero cheese?

If asadero is unavailable, you can use Monterey Jack or another melting cheese as a substitute.

The goal is a creamy, melty texture.

Can I make this casserole without bacon for a vegetarian version?

Certainly! Omitting bacon will still result in a flavorful dish.

You can enhance it with other ingredients like roasted veggies or additional spices.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh or canned corn?

Absolutely! Using frozen corn, like the one from your freezer, is a convenient option and works well in this recipe.

Can I make this casserole without a cast iron skillet?

Yes, you can use a different oven-safe skillet or transfer the ingredients to a baking dish before finishing it under the broiler.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

The spiciness depends on the green chiles.

For a milder version, choose mild green chiles or reduce the quantity.

If you love heat, opt for hotter varieties.

Can I prepare the casserole the night before and bake it the next day?

Certainly! You can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate.

When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.

Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole without bacon?

Yes, you can omit the bacon for a vegetarian version.

Consider adding other ingredients like roasted veggies or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for added flavor.