Tamale And Corn Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender tamales, sweet corn, and melted cheese, flavored with onions, bell peppers, and chili powder for a comforting Mexican-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and bell pepper in butter until tender.
- Combine the sautéed vegetables with cream style corn, Mexican style corn, chopped tamales, salt, pepper, and chili powder.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Spread the mixture in a baking dish and sprinkle with grated cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for approximately 30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture before baking. If you don't have tamales on hand, you can use leftover cooked meat, or skip it entirely for a vegetarian version. Adjust the chili powder to your heat preference. Pair this dish with a side of Zesty Rice And Bean Casserole for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole makes a hearty main dish, but can also be served as a side alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh cilantro or avocado slices. It pairs beautifully with Sid'S Favorite Mexican Dip for a full flavor experience. Consider serving with tortilla chips for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even heating. This casserole also freezes well; just wrap it tightly and store for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tamale And Corn Casserole contains roughly 385 calories, with 8g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1693mg per serving (74% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice due to its sharp flavor that complements the other ingredients. However, you can also use Monterey Jack for a milder taste or a Mexican cheese blend for added authenticity. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.
Can I add other ingredients to this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add black beans, diced tomatoes, or corn kernels for extra flavor and texture. You can also include chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick. This recipe is versatile, so don't hesitate to customize it to your taste or dietary preferences.
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).