Go Back
Homemade Chiles Rellenos Breakfast Strata with Optional Chorizo photo

Chiles Rellenos Breakfast Strata with Optional Chorizo

This Chiles Rellenos Breakfast Strata is a crowd-pleaser! Layers of roasted chiles, gooey cheese, and fluffy eggs create a delicious breakfast experience.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Strata:
  • 2 cans whole green chilies (5-ounce, mild or hot)
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese (medium recommended)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 6 eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika (plus extra for sprinkling on top)
  • 0.125 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 8 slices white sandwich bread (crusts removed)
  • 0.5 pound chorizo sausage (optional, for half-size vegetarian), or 1 pound for full version
  • Optional toppings salsa, avocados, sour cream, chives, fresh cilantro, fresh diced tomatoes

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp Knife
  • Oven

Method
 

Directions:
  1. Step 1: Preheat the Oven
    Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when your strata is ready to bake, the oven is perfectly heated for optimal cooking.
  2. Step 2: Prepare the Chorizo (Optional)
    If you’re opting for the meaty version, cook the chorizo in a skillet over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Step 3: Mix the Egg Mixture
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper until well combined. This mixture is the base of your strata and will create a creamy texture once baked.
  4. Step 4: Assemble the Strata
    In your prepared baking dish, lay down half of the bread slices, overlapping slightly if needed. Then, layer half of the green chilies over the bread, followed by half of the cooked chorizo (if using) and half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Repeat this layering process with the remaining bread, chilies, chorizo (if using), and cheeses.
  5. Step 5: Pour the Egg Mixture
    Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the assembled strata, ensuring that each layer is well soaked. Gently press down on the top layer with a spatula to ensure all the bread is coated.
  6. Step 6: Bake the Strata
    Sprinkle a little extra smoked paprika on top for color and flavor. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the strata is set and the top is golden brown.
  7. Step 7: Cool and Serve
    Once baked, let the strata cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your choice of optional toppings like salsa, avocado, sour cream, or fresh herbs.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chorizo and load up on extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread instead of regular white sandwich bread.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half of the whole milk with low-fat or almond milk.