Gran'S Tamale Soup
A hearty, flavorful tamale soup combining ground beef, tomatoes, beans, corn, and tender tamales, topped with melted cheese — perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger with chopped onion; drain off excess grease.
- Add tomatoes, beans, corn, and cumin to the browned meat.
- Simmer the mixture for 20 to 30 minutes.
- During the last 10 minutes, add the cut-up tamales.
- Serve the soup hot, topped with grated cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the hamburger with black beans or lentils. You can also use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a fresher taste. If you have leftover tamales, they can be chopped up and added directly to the soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a generous sprinkle of grated cheese. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or a side of Mexican recipes like Aunt Jeanettes Taco Salad for added flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in a bowl, covered loosely, for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gran'S Tamale Soup contains roughly 968 calories, with 41g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (105% of the Daily Value), and protein (81% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1234mg per serving (54% 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 soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. Make sure to hold off on adding the cheese until just before serving for the best texture.
What type of cheese is best for topping this soup?
For topping your Gran'S Tamale Soup, a shredded Mexican blend or sharp cheddar cheese works beautifully. You can also use queso fresco for a milder, creamier option. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination!
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick.
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).