Tamale Chili
A hearty, cheesy chili featuring beef tamales and rich chili flavors, perfect for cozy gatherings and satisfying comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove paper from each beef tamale and cut them into smaller pieces.
- Add the chopped tamales, chili, and grated Cheddar cheese into a slow cooker.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for several hours until heated through and flavors meld.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. If you want to make this dish vegetarian, substitute the beef tamales with black bean tamales and use vegetarian chili. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for added flavor. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover tamales from a previous meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty tamale chili with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado slices for added flavor and creaminess. This dish also pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or can be used as a filling for tacos in a Chili Taco Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the chili in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tamale Chili contains roughly 892 calories, with 50g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (111% of the Daily Value), protein (101% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (77% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1665mg per serving (72% 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 freeze tamale chili?
Yes, you can freeze tamale chili for up to three months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
What kind of chili should I use?
You can use any canned chili that you prefer, such as beef, turkey, or vegetarian chili. If you like a milder flavor, opt for a chili without beans; for more texture, choose one with beans. Consider trying a spicy variant for an extra kick.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat to your tamale chili, incorporate diced fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers into the slow cooker. You can also mix in a tablespoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper, depending on your spice tolerance. Adjust the seasoning to your preference for a flavorful 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).