Easy Tamale Casserole
A hearty and cheesy casserole combining seasoned ground beef, corn, olives, and crispy chips, baked to perfection—perfect for a satisfying family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion together in a skillet until cooked through.
- Add the whole kernel corn, consomme soup, tomato sauce, sliced olives, and mix well.
- Spread Fritos or corn chips in the bottom of an uncovered casserole dish.
- Pour the meat and vegetable mixture over the chips.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in an uncovered casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, until bubbly and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also swap the consomme soup for a homemade stock or broth for a fresher taste. Adding spices like cumin or chili powder can give it a Spicy Mexican twist. If you want a vegetarian option, use black beans instead of meat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Easy Tamale Casserole with a fresh green salad or guacamole on the side for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Taco Salad for a delightful Tex-Mex feast. You can also top it with sour cream or fresh cilantro to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven will keep the chips crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Tamale Casserole contains roughly 518 calories, with 23g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 996mg per serving (43% 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 a day in advance. Just assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it for about 1 hour at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly. This is a great way to save time on busy days.
What can I substitute for the Fritos?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can use baked tortilla chips or crushed corn tortillas. For a gluten-free version, ensure that the corn chips are labeled gluten-free. This will maintain the crunch while accommodating dietary needs.
Can I freeze the tamale casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, add an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.
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).