Quick Tamale Bake
A hearty, flavorful casserole combining ground beef, corn, tomatoes, and corn muffin topping, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat fat in skillet.
- Add chopped onion and seasonings (salt and pepper).
- Brown ground beef and drain off excess fat.
- Add canned corn and tomatoes and bring to a boil.
- Pour mixture into a 2-quart baking dish.
- Prepare the corn muffin mix according to package instructions and spoon over the mixture.
- Bake at 400°F for 30 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker meal, you can use pre-cooked ground beef or substitute turkey for a leaner option. If you don't have canned corn, frozen corn works just as well. To enhance flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder. Additionally, using a different type of cheese on top can add a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Quick Tamale Bake pairs beautifully with a side salad or some guacamole for added freshness. Consider serving it with tortilla chips for crunch or a dollop of sour cream on top. For a festive touch, serve alongside Homemade Slippery Pot Pie or Arizona Carrot Casserole to create a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Tamale Bake contains roughly 825 calories, with 22g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2327mg per serving (101% 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 beef and vegetable mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply prepare the corn muffin mix and proceed with the recipe. This can save time on busy weeknights.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a mix of black beans and chopped bell peppers or use a meat substitute like lentils. You can also add extra vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms to enhance the texture and flavor.
Can I freeze the Quick Tamale Bake?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
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).