Mexican Chile Poblano con Queso

Poblano Peppers Stuffed with Cheese and Tomato Sauce

This Poblano Peppers Stuffed with Cheese and Tomato Sauce recipe brings a vibrant, flavorful twist to your table. Roasted poblano peppers are stuffed with a creamy cheese filling, then simmered in a tangy tomato sauce, creating the perfect balance of heat, richness, and freshness. Whether served as a main dish or a side, these stuffed peppers make for a hearty, satisfying meal with a little spice.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Poblano Peppers:

6-8 poblano peppers, roasted, peeled, and seeded

For the Cheese Filling:

2 cups shredded cheese (queso fresco, Monterey Jack, or a blend)

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tomato Sauce:

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 medium onion, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium tomatoes, diced
1-2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish:

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

How to Roast the Poblano Peppers:

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). You want it to be nice and hot for roasting the peppers.
Roast the Peppers: Place the poblano peppers on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the skins are blistered and charred. If you prefer, you can also roast the peppers directly over an open flame on the stove for a more traditional method. This will give them a smoky flavor.
Steam and Peel: After roasting, place the peppers in a plastic bag or covered bowl and allow them to steam for 10-15 minutes. The steam will make the skins easier to peel off. Once cooled, remove the skin, slice open the peppers, and carefully remove the seeds. Set the peppers aside.

How to Prepare the Cheese Filling:

Combine the Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the shredded cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple cheese mixture will serve as the stuffing for your roasted poblano peppers.
Stuff the Peppers: Gently stuff each roasted poblano pepper with the prepared cheese mixture, ensuring they’re filled evenly but not overstuffed. Place the stuffed peppers aside while you prepare the sauce.

How to Make the Tomato Sauce:

Sauté the Onion: In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning the onions.
Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Once the onions are softened, add the minced garlic and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the tomatoes break down and release their juices. This will form the base of your sauce.
Season the Sauce: Stir in the ground cumin for a warm, earthy flavor. Add the chicken or vegetable broth, depending on your preference, and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

How to Combine and Serve:

Assemble the Dish: Place the stuffed poblano peppers in a serving dish. Pour the tomato sauce over the peppers, making sure they’re well-covered.
Simmer Together: Allow the stuffed peppers to simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to heat everything through and let the flavors combine.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro just before serving. The cilantro will add a fresh, herbal note to balance the richness of the cheese and the depth of the tomato sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Poblano Peppers Stuffed with Cheese

Choosing the right peppers: When selecting poblano peppers, look for ones that are firm and smooth, with minimal blemishes. The size of the peppers can vary, so choose peppers that will fit comfortably in your baking dish.
Roasting alternatives: If you don’t have an oven, you can also roast poblano peppers under a broiler or over a gas flame for that smoky flavor. Just make sure to turn them regularly to get an even char.
Cheese variety: While queso fresco is the traditional choice for stuffing, you can also use Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses. A cheese like Oaxaca or Chihuahua would also work well if you prefer something a bit more meltable.
Make it spicy: If you like your dishes with a bit more heat, you can leave some of the seeds in the poblano peppers or add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the tomato sauce.
Make ahead: You can prepare the stuffed poblano peppers in advance, cover them with the sauce, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just heat them up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes before serving.
Serving suggestions: These stuffed peppers can be served as a side dish or a main course. Pair them with a side of Mexican rice, beans, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can stuff the poblano peppers and prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time. Store both in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to let the peppers come to room temperature before baking or add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use a different type of pepper?

While poblanos are traditional for this dish, you can substitute with other mild chili peppers, such as Anaheim or Hatch chilies. Just be mindful that the flavor and spice level may differ.

How do I store leftovers?

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as long as you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It’s also naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Simply stuff the peppers, pour the sauce over them, and cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes or until heated through.

Can I add meat to this dish?

Yes! Ground beef or shredded chicken can be added to the cheese filling for an extra protein boost. Brown the meat beforehand and mix it with the cheese before stuffing the peppers.

By following these simple steps, you’ll create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and guests. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, Poblano Peppers Stuffed with Cheese and Tomato Sauce makes for an unforgettable meal!