Alamo Tamale Supper
A hearty and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish featuring beef tamales, topped with cheese and cooked with a savory tomato and chili sauce in a slow cooker, perfect for comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the beef tamales in half crosswise and arrange them in the bottom of a greased crock-pot.
- Sprinkle the finely chopped onion over the tamales.
- Add the drained whole kernel corn to the crock-pot.
- Mix the tomato sauce with the chili powder.
- Pour the tomato sauce mixture into the crock-pot over the ingredients.
- Top with grated sharp cheese.
- Cover and cook on low for 5 to 7 hours or on high for about 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or bell peppers when layering the ingredients. If you're short on time, you can use frozen tamales instead of canned, just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. If you're looking for a vegetarian version, substitute the beef tamales with cheese tamales and add some black beans for protein. This dish can also benefit from a sprinkle of cumin for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting dish with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Corn Bread Tamale Pie for a hearty feast. You can also top it with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. For a refreshing drink, consider serving it with a cold margarita or iced tea.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the tamale supper in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, approximately 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Alamo Tamale Supper contains roughly 162 calories, with 6g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 734mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade tamales instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade tamales will add a personal touch and freshness to the dish. Just ensure they are cooked and heated through before layering them in the crock-pot. Adjust the cooking time if your tamales are larger or denser than the canned variety.
Can I freeze the tamale supper?
Yes, you can freeze the dish before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, layer the ingredients in a freezer-safe container and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. If freezing leftovers, allow them to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
What can I serve with the Alamo Tamale Supper?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad, refried beans, or some tortilla chips with salsa. For a heartier meal, you might also enjoy it alongside beef recipes or other Mexican recipes that complement its flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).