Marilyn'S Tamale Dip

Cook: 180 min Cuisine: Mexican

Creamy, flavorful tamale dip with rich tomato and cheese notes, perfect for parties or casual gatherings, offering a hearty blend of Mexican-inspired flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 2 medium onions, chopped
  • 1 (28 oz.) can tomatoes
  • 1 (14 oz.) can tomato sauce
  • 2 (28 oz.) cans tamales, chopped in 1-inch pieces
  • 1 clove minced garlic
  • dash of Tabasco
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp. chili sauce
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • chili powder to taste
  • Cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Mix onions, tomatoes, and tomato sauce in a saucepan.
  2. Simmer, covered, for 3 hours.
  3. Add chopped tamales with sauce and all other ingredients.
  4. Top with cheese before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the mix. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the tomatoes and sauce before adding them to the onions. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. To save time, use pre-chopped onions or a jar of minced garlic.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious Tamale Dip with tortilla chips or soft taco shells for dipping. It makes a great appetizer for parties or game days and pairs beautifully with a refreshing salad or some homemade guacamole. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a bowl of chili or a Mexican-inspired side dish.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. This dip also freezes well; just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Marilyn'S Tamale Dip contains roughly 362 calories, with 6g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (136% of the Daily Value), potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2202mg per serving (96% of the Daily Value).

362 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.9g 12% DV
Total Fat 18.6g 24% DV
Carbs 45.8g 17% DV
Fiber 6g 21% DV
Sugar 9.6g 19% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2202.2mg 96% DV
Potassium 1045.6mg 22% DV
Cholesterol 1.6mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 201.9mcg 22% DV
Vitamin C 122.6mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 110.7mg 9% DV
Iron 2.1mg 12% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

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 dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up until topping with cheese, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove or in the oven, adding the cheese just before serving for a melty finish.

Is this dip vegetarian-friendly?

Yes, this Tamale Dip is vegetarian as it primarily uses vegetables and canned tamales. However, always check the labels of the tamales you use, as some brands may contain meat. For a vegan option, use dairy-free cheese on top.

What can I serve with this dip?

This Tamale Dip is versatile and pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it with crunchy tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or alongside a refreshing Creamy Salsa Dip. It’s also delicious when paired with a simple green salad or homemade guacamole for a complete spread.

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).

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