Tamale Loaf
A hearty and savory casserole with a southwestern flair, combining corn, tomatoes, olives, chicken, and cheese. Its bold flavors and comforting texture make it perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering a satisfying blend of spices and ingredients that appeal to those who enjoy flavorful, filling meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown chopped onion in butter and olive oil.
- Add canned corn, tomatoes, and chopped olives; cook for 15 minutes.
- Do not drain the mixture.
- Add beaten eggs, milk, and yellow corn mix; cook for another 15 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add all remaining ingredients and pour into a greased casserole dish.
- Bake in the oven until cooked through and golden on top.
- Garnish with whole ripe olives before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. You can substitute the yellow corn mix with cornbread mix for a slightly sweeter flavor. If you want a creamier texture, replace the American cheese with pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese. Make sure to stir frequently during cooking to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
This tamale loaf pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad. For added flavor, serve with a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices. Consider making a batch of Cheese And Sour Cream Enchilada as a complementary dish for a delightful Mexican-inspired meal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the tamale loaf to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual servings in the microwave for a couple of minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tamale Loaf contains roughly 763 calories, with 16g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1336mg per serving (58% 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 tamale loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tamale loaf in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
What can I use instead of chicken?
If you're looking for a meat alternative, shredded turkey or even black beans can work well in this recipe. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat entirely and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
Can I freeze the tamale loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled tamale loaf before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. It can also be frozen after baking for up to three months.
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).