Chili Tamale Casserole
A hearty chili tamale casserole combining ground beef, macaroni, corn, and spicy flavors, topped with fresh lettuce, onions, and cheese—perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook macaroni in 6 cups boiling salted water until tender (10 to 12 minutes); drain.
- Cook ground beef in a 10-inch skillet until light brown; drain.
- Stir in cooked macaroni, sauce mix, corn (with liquid), water, and chili powder.
- Pour the mixture into an ungreased baking dish (13 1/2 x 8 3/4 x 1 3/4 inches).
- Bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes.
- Top with shredded lettuce, chopped onion, and shredded cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or using spicy chili powder. If you're out of Hamburger Helper, you can substitute with a mix of pasta, canned tomatoes, and spices. Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, replace beef with black beans and use vegetable broth instead of water.
Serving Suggestions
This Chili Tamale Casserole is best served hot, garnished with shredded lettuce, chopped onion, and your choice of shredded cheese. Pair it with cornbread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For an extra touch, serve alongside some sour cream or guacamole. It also pairs beautifully with Easy Green Chili for a flavorful twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Tamale Casserole contains roughly 255 calories, with 6g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (67% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 634mg per serving (28% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove from the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option. Additionally, using black beans or lentils can add protein and a different texture while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
How can I adjust the spice level of this dish?
To adjust the spice level, start by using mild chili powder and gradually add more to taste. You can also include diced green chiles, hot sauce, or fresh jalapeños. If the dish becomes too spicy, serve with sour cream to help balance the heat.
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).