Hatch Chile Relleno Grilled Cheese

The Hatch Chile Relleno Grilled Cheese combines the smoky, roasted flavor of Hatch green chiles with the creamy richness of Oaxaca and cheddar cheeses, all nestled between crispy, buttery sourdough bread.

This sandwich is a delightful fusion of the classic grilled cheese and the bold, spicy flavors of chile relleno, offering a perfect balance of heat and gooey goodness in every bite. Ideal for a quick lunch or a satisfying snack, this twist on a comfort food favorite is sure to become a new go-to!

Ingredients:

2 whole roasted Hatch green chiles

½ cup Oaxaca cheese, shredded or sliced

2 slices of cheddar cheese

2 slices sourdough bread

2 tablespoons butter, softened (for spreading)

Instructions:

Prepare the Chiles:

Stuff each roasted Hatch green chile with Oaxaca cheese.

Assemble the Sandwich:

Place the stuffed chiles on one slice of sourdough bread.

Top the chiles with a slice of cheddar cheese.

Cover with the second slice of bread.

Butter the Bread:

Spread softened butter on the outer sides of both slices of sourdough bread.

Grill the Sandwich:

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.

Place the sandwich on the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is fully melted.

Serve:

Slice in half and serve hot, with your favorite dipping sauce or side.

Notes:

Roasting Hatch Chiles: For the best flavor, roast the Hatch chiles on an open flame or under the broiler until their skins are charred. Let them steam in a covered bowl for easier peeling.

Cheese Variations: Oaxaca cheese is great for its meltability, but if unavailable, you can substitute with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a similar creamy texture.

Bread Choice: Sourdough adds a nice crunch and tang to balance the richness of the cheese and the chiles, but any hearty bread like ciabatta or French bread would work well too.

Customizable Heat: If you prefer a milder sandwich, remove the seeds from the Hatch chiles before stuffing them. For more spice, consider adding jalapeño slices or spicy pepper jack cheese.

Grilling Tips: Use medium heat to ensure that the cheese melts evenly without burning the bread. You can also press the sandwich lightly with a spatula for extra crispiness.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use another type of bread instead of sourdough?

Yes, you can substitute sourdough with any bread you prefer, such as whole wheat, ciabatta, or white bread.

The texture and flavor will vary slightly.

What type of cheese can I use if I don’t have Oaxaca cheese?

If Oaxaca cheese isn’t available, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mild cheddar.

These cheeses melt similarly and offer a comparable creamy texture.

Can I use canned green chiles instead of fresh Hatch chiles?

Yes, but fresh roasted Hatch chiles give a more authentic, smoky flavor.

Canned chiles can be a convenient alternative, but the texture may be softer.

How do I roast Hatch chiles at home?

Roast the chiles over an open flame or under a broiler until the skin blisters.

Place them in a sealed container to steam for 10-15 minutes, then peel off the charred skin.

Can I make this sandwich spicy?

Absolutely! For more heat, you can use spicier varieties of Hatch chiles or add a few dashes of hot sauce or jalapeños.

What can I serve with this grilled cheese?

This sandwich pairs well with tomato soup, tortilla chips, or a side of salsa and guacamole for added flavor.

Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free bread to make this a gluten-free meal.

Ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free, particularly the cheese.

How can I prevent the cheese from leaking out while grilling?

Make sure the edges of the bread are well-pressed together.

You can also grill the sandwich on low heat to allow the cheese to melt slowly without spilling out.

Can I cook this in an oven instead of a skillet?

Yes, you can bake the sandwich in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.

How do I store leftovers, and can I reheat them?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.

Reheat on a skillet or in the oven to crisp up the bread.

Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bread soggy.