Maurine Moon'S Tamale Pie
A hearty tamale pie layered with chili, cheese, onions, and bell peppers, perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners with bold Mexican-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the Gebhart tamales and chili separately.
- In a baking dish, add a layer of tamales, followed by a layer of Fritos and 1 cup of grated cheese.
- Pour the chili over the tamale mixture until it reaches the bottom of the dish.
- Add chopped onion and chopped bell pepper on top.
- Sprinkle a layer of cheese and then add the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using homemade chili instead of Gebhart for a fresher flavor. You can also swap Fritos for tortilla chips or crushed nacho chips for added crunch. If you're looking to lighten the dish, use low-fat cheese or add more vegetables like corn or zucchini. For a vegetarian option, ensure your chili and tamales are meat-free. This dish also pairs well with Mexican recipes that include beans or rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tamale pie with a side of Mexican Hot Bread for a hearty meal, or pair it with a fresh salad to balance the flavors. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top adds creaminess and richness. For a complete Tex Mex Appetizers experience, consider serving it alongside nachos with salsa for a festive gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the tamale pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven will help maintain the texture of the cheese and Fritos.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maurine Moon'S Tamale Pie contains roughly 273 calories, with 8g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 690mg per serving (30% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tamale pie a day in advance. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of Gebhart chili?
You can use any canned chili that you prefer or even homemade chili for a more personalized flavor. Just ensure that it's a similar consistency so that it pours well over the tamale layer. For a milder option, opt for a chili without beans.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The recipe as is may not be gluten-free because Fritos contain corn and may be processed in a facility that handles gluten. Look for gluten-free tortilla chips or corn chips as a substitute. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
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).