If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and incredibly easy to make, then this Green Chili Pie is the perfect recipe to try. This dish truly lives up to the hype of being a quick family meal and budget-friendly recipe. With only three ingredients and a couple of simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on your table in no time. And, believe me, it’s so tasty that you’ll want to make it again and again. Whether you’re looking for a healthy comfort food option, a high-protein meal, or simply something that’s effortless to whip up on a busy weeknight, this pie checks all the boxes.
I’m excited to share this easy weeknight dinner with you because it’s perfect for meal planning for two or even as a great high-protein snack that you can enjoy throughout the day. Not to mention, it’s a fantastic recipe for meal prep microwave lunches. Trust me, once you make this dish, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
So, if you’re ready to make something delicious, healthy, and oh-so-simple, keep reading!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Green Chili Pie is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in food form. It’s one of those meals that gives you the comfort of a hearty pie but in the simplest way possible. With only three ingredients—yes, three!—you can have something that tastes rich and flavorful without the hassle.
What makes this even better is how versatile it is. You can enjoy it as a healthy lunch, a light breakfast, or even serve it as a savory appetizer for your next brunch. The fact that it’s so quick and easy to make makes it perfect for those busy days when you’re craving something satisfying but don’t have the time or energy for a complicated recipe.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
First off, let’s talk about how it’s made: three simple ingredients, one baking dish, and less than 90 minutes from start to finish. There’s nothing fancy about it, which is what makes it so special! Sometimes, the simplest meals are the best, and this Green Chili Pie proves that theory.
The mild heat from the green chilies pairs perfectly with the rich, melty cheddar cheese, and the eggs tie everything together to create a savory pie that’s surprisingly filling and satisfying. This recipe also makes for an excellent high-protein microwave meal when you’re in a rush. You can even prep it in advance, so it’s ready when you need a healthy, quick family meal.
Another bonus? It’s super affordable, so it’s perfect for a budget-friendly recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s perfect for anyone who’s looking for cheap meal plans for two or simply a quick, high-protein meal.
Ingredients
Green Chilies
Eggs
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
How to Make It Step-by-Step
Making Green Chili Pie is as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a fresh, delicious pie ready in no time:
- Preheat your oven to 275°F. This slow and steady bake will give you the perfect texture in the end.
- Prepare your pie dish. Lightly grease a 9-inch pie pan with butter, making sure the bottom and sides are evenly coated. This will help prevent sticking.
- Spread the chilies. Open your can of chopped green chilies and spread them, along with the juice, evenly over the bottom of your prepared pie dish.
- Add the cheese. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chilies. Make sure it’s spread out evenly so you get cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Whisk the eggs. In a separate bowl, whisk the four eggs until they’re fully blended. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cheese layer, ensuring that all the cheese is covered.
- Bake it. Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 1 hour at 275°F. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set and the edges are golden brown.
- Serve. Once your Green Chili Pie is done, cut it into pie-shaped slices or bite-sized pieces. It’s delicious both hot and cold, so don’t hesitate to enjoy it at any time of day.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip greasing the pan. Even if you’re using a non-stick pan, buttering it lightly will ensure that your pie comes out clean and doesn’t stick.
- Use fresh eggs. The quality of your eggs will directly affect the texture of the pie. Fresh, high-quality eggs create a fluffier, more satisfying dish.
- Get creative with cheese. While shredded cheddar cheese works perfectly in this recipe, feel free to try other cheese varieties, like pepper jack for a bit of spice or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
- Consider a spice kick. If you like a bit more heat, you can add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the egg mixture.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
While this recipe is super simple, there’s always room for a little customization. Here are a few ideas for making it your own:
- Cheese swap: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, try using Monterey Jack or even a blend of Mexican cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Dairy-free version: For a dairy-free Green Chili Pie, try using a non-dairy cheese alternative, such as vegan shredded cheese, and make sure your eggs are from a dairy-free source.
- Extra veggies: If you want to sneak in some extra veggies, consider adding sautéed onions, spinach, or bell peppers. It’s an easy way to boost the nutritional value without changing the flavor too much.
- Spicy twist: For a keto meal plan or just to kick things up a notch, add some diced jalapeños or fresh cilantro to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
This Green Chili Pie is delicious as-is, but if you’re looking to take it to the next level, here are some great serving ideas:
- Fresh salsa: A side of fresh salsa or pico de gallo complements the flavor of the pie perfectly. It adds a bit of zest and freshness.
- Avocado slices: For a healthy comfort food touch, serve your pie with creamy avocado slices on the side. It adds a rich, buttery flavor that pairs well with the mild heat of the chilies.
- Greens on the side: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the pie. It’s a great option for a light lunch or dinner.
- Sour cream: Top your pie with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to add some creaminess and cut through the spice.
Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)
- Beverages: A refreshing iced tea or a chilled sparkling water would be a great drink choice to pair with this dish.
- Side dishes: Serve it alongside some roasted veggies, a crispy salad, or even some sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely, because this pie is so tasty), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or warm it up in a preheated oven at 275°F for about 10 minutes.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
Want to prep this ahead of time? You can make Green Chili Pie in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked pie for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly and storing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and bake as usual—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from frozen.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the pie to avoid overbaking. You want a golden brown edge but a soft center. If it feels firm to the touch, it’s ready.
- Skipping the grease: Greasing the pan is essential! If you skip this step, the pie might stick to the pan, making it difficult to slice.
- Not evenly distributing the cheese: Make sure the cheese is spread evenly so that every bite has a good balance of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, this pie can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a couple of days before baking. You can also freeze it unbaked for future use.
Can I add more spices to the recipe?
Absolutely! You can spice it up with chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or even diced jalapeños.
What can I serve with Green Chili Pie?
It pairs wonderfully with fresh salsa, avocado slices, a simple salad, or roasted veggies.
Cooking Tools You’ll Need
- 9-inch pie pan (for baking)
- Whisk (for beating the eggs)
- Grater (for shredding the cheese, unless you buy pre-shredded)
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the pie dish)
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend!
Green Chili Pie
Ingredients
- 1 can chopped green chilies (4 oz)
- 4 large eggs, well beaten
- 10 oz shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie pan with butter.
- Spread the chopped green chilies and their juice evenly over the bottom of the prepared pie pan.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chilies.
- Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl until fully blended, then pour them evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake for 1 hour, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Allow the pie to cool slightly, then cut into slices or bite-sized pieces. Serve hot or cold.