Quick Supper
A quick and hearty microwave meal featuring savory tamales topped with chili and melted cheese, perfect for a fast, satisfying dinner or snack for busy evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove wrappers from tamales and place them in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Pour chili over the tamales.
- Cook in microwave for 4 minutes.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Return to microwave and cook for an additional 20 to 30 seconds until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quick meal, look for tamales in the frozen aisle if you can't find canned versions. If you want to add more flavor, consider adding diced onions or jalapeños to the chili before pouring it over the tamales. To make it vegetarian, choose a meat-free chili option. This dish can also be topped with avocado or sour cream for extra creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad or tortilla chips for a complete meal. It also goes well with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole. For more great ideas, browse more Mexican recipes to complement this quick supper.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the dish back in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, covering it to prevent drying out, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Supper contains roughly 290 calories, with 17g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1309mg per serving (57% 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 homemade tamales instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you have homemade tamales, they will work perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure they're heated thoroughly, as the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size and type of tamales.
What kind of chili should I use?
You can use any canned chili you prefer, whether it's beef, turkey, or vegetarian. For a spicier kick, opt for chili with added jalapeños or beans. If you want to customize, you could also use your own homemade chili if you have it on hand.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the chili for added nutrition and texture. These ingredients can enhance the flavor and make the dish even heartier. Just mix them in before pouring the chili over the tamales.
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).