Everything You Need to Know About Hatch Peppers
Hop on the Hatch Pepper bandwagon!
Whether you’re a longtime chile lover or a curious newcomer, Hatch Peppers have become the darling of the culinary world—and for good reason. Their uniquely rich flavor, wide range of heat levels, and seasonal availability have made them a cult favorite for chefs, foodies, and home cooks alike.
Our Obsession with Hatch Peppers Runs Deep
At Melissa’s, our Hatch Pepper journey began long before the chile craze swept the nation. It’s a long-standing tradition for our Melissa’s family to end every summer with Hatch Peppers. It wasn’t just the flavor (smoky, savory, and deeply addictive). It was the people, the passion, and the pride behind every chile grown in that sun-drenched corner of New Mexico.
After tasting fire-roasted Hatch chiles fresh off the roaster, we knew we had to share them with the rest of the country. That same year, Melissa’s became one of the first companies to introduce Hatch Peppers to retail produce departments outside of the Southwest. We partnered directly with trusted growers in Hatch Valley and helped launch some of the first in-store Hatch Chile Roasts—turning what was once a local harvest into a national celebration.
Today, we remain one of the largest shippers and promoters of authentic Hatch Peppers, offering not only fresh chiles during peak season, but a wide range of Hatch-enhanced products—from salsas to snacks to seasoning shakers. At Melissa’s, Hatch isn’t just a product. It’s a tradition we’re proud to carry forward each season.
What Are Hatch Peppers?
Hatch Peppers are a variety of chile pepper grown exclusively in Hatch Valley, a fertile strip of land in southern New Mexico, just north of Las Cruces. The region’s distinct terroir—rich soil, high elevation, hot days, and cool desert nights—creates a one-of-a-kind pepper that simply can’t be duplicated anywhere else. That’s why true Hatch peppers must be grown in Hatch Valley—just like Champagne must come from Champagne, France.
These peppers are the meaty, flavor-packed cousins of the Anaheim pepper, but they’re anything but ordinary. Depending on the variety, Hatch Peppers can range from mild to very hot, giving you plenty of flexibility to find your perfect level of heat.
When Is Hatch Pepper Season?
Hatch season is brief—but beloved. Late July through early September is when the magic happens. That’s when fresh Hatch chiles hit the market, and supermarkets across the country host Hatch Chile Roasts, where you can buy fresh peppers and watch them fire-roasted on-site in large mesh drums. Melissa’s has worked with the same growing partners for decades to bring the finest quality peppers to stores nationwide.
Find a Hatch Roast near you.
Why Is Everyone Obsessed?
Beyond the mystique of a limited season and region-specific growth, Hatch Peppers are just plain delicious. Their thick walls and natural smokiness make them perfect for roasting. Once charred, their skin peels away easily, revealing tender, flavorful flesh that’s ideal for stuffing, sautéing, baking—or simply adding to anything from burgers to stews.
Social media buzz, food blogger love, and chef-driven recipes have helped turn Hatch Peppers into a seasonal food celebration. They’ve gone from farmers markets in New Mexico to fine-dining restaurants and Instagram feeds nationwide.
Where Can I Get Hatch Goodies?
Melissa’s, of course! We make it easy to get your fix. Check out our Hatch essentials, including:
- Fresh Hatch Peppers
- Hatch Salsas
- Hatch Hot Sauce
- Hatch Pepper Seasoning
- Hatch Pepper Clean Snax®
- Hatch Kettle Popcorn
- Hatch Party Pecan Mix
Shop Hatch Essentials!
How Do You Use Hatch Peppers?
Start by roasting them until blistered and blackened, then steam in a closed container and peel off the skin. You can use them:
- In breakfast burritos
- Folded into creamy mac and cheese
- In salsas, enchiladas, and tamales
- Stuffed with cheese or meat
- As a topping on pizza, burgers, or avocado toast
- Pureed into a creamy Hatch chile sauce
Freeze roasted and peeled Hatch peppers so you can enjoy their flavor year-round!
Get Inspiration from Our Favorite Recipes
Whether you're craving something savory, spicy, or sweet, Hatch Peppers bring the flavor. These seasonal favorites showcase just how versatile Hatch can be. Explore the recipes below and make the most of Hatch season while it lasts!
Hatch Pepper Burger
Turn up the heat on burger night with this plant-based patty that’s anything but ordinary. Roasted Hatch peppers bring bold flavor and just the right kick to this meatless marvel.
Hatch Pozole Verde
A comforting Mexican classic gets a green makeover with Hatch chiles and fresh herbs. This hearty pozole is perfect for chilly evenings—or any time you need a little soul-soothing spice.
Hatch Tomatillo Salsa
This zesty green salsa blends roasted Hatch peppers with tomatillos for a tangy, smoky kick. Spoon it over tacos, eggs, or grilled meats—or just grab a chip and dive in.
Hatch Coctel de Camaron
Fresh shrimp meets spicy Hatch chiles in this refreshing Mexican-style seafood cocktail. Bright, bold, and perfect for summer snacking or your next backyard gathering.
Hatch Pepper Apple Pie
Sweet meets heat in this unexpected twist on a classic dessert. Hatch peppers add a warm, spicy note that takes apple pie to a whole new level.
