Old El Paso Mexicali Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tamales, corn, sausages, and creamy cheese, perfect for a comforting family dinner with bold Mexican-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove wrappers from tamales; cut tamales in thirds and diagonally in half.
- Mix the tamales, drained corn, Vienna sausages, and cream of chicken soup in a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes.
- Top the casserole with remaining tamales and shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Heat until the cheese melts before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced green chilies or jalapeños to the casserole. You can substitute the Vienna sausages with cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, replace the sausages with black beans or lentils. Using low-fat cream of chicken soup can lighten the dish without sacrificing taste.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with a side of fresh guacamole and tortilla chips for a fun and festive meal. You could also serve it alongside a crisp green salad to balance the flavors. For a complete Mexican dinner experience, consider offering a side of rice or beans, and a refreshing drink like horchata or a classic margarita.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old El Paso Mexicali Casserole contains roughly 442 calories, with 24g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1037mg per serving (45% 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 use a different type of soup for this casserole?
Yes, you can experiment with different soups. Cream of mushroom or even a spicy cream of tomato can work well as alternatives. Just be mindful that these substitutions may alter the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper on top before serving for an extra kick!
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).