Tamale, Corn, Beans And Frito Casserole
A hearty casserole combining corn chips, pork and beans, cream-style corn, and tamales, topped with melted Cheddar cheese and black olives for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place a medium-sized package of corn chips in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Add the can of pork and beans and the can of cream-style corn on top of the tamales.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake at 350° or 400° until heated through, approximately 30 minutes.
- Optional: sprinkle chopped black olives on top of the cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using flavored corn chips or adding spices like cumin and chili powder to the bean mixture. If you want to make it vegetarian, you can substitute the pork and beans with a can of black beans or pinto beans. This dish can also be customized with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier kick, and pairs beautifully with Taco Soup II.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a hearty main dish on its own but can be served with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Consider topping individual servings with sour cream, diced avocado, or fresh cilantro for added freshness. It also pairs well with other Mexican recipes, making it a versatile dish for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are evenly heated.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tamale, Corn, Beans And Frito Casserole contains roughly 1130 calories, with 21g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 107g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 651mg per serving (28% 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 assemble the casserole a day in advance. Simply cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of tamales?
If you can't find tamales, you can substitute with cooked and seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken. Alternatively, try using corn tortillas layered in the casserole for a different texture and flavor.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
To make this casserole gluten-free, ensure the corn chips you use are labeled as gluten-free. Additionally, check that the canned beans and corn do not contain any gluten-containing additives. This way, you can enjoy this dish without any concerns.
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).