Tamale Squares
Savory tamale squares feature a hearty combination of ground beef, green peppers, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Add milk and melted margarine; beat until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch square dish.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned; drain excess fat.
- Mix chopped green pepper into the cooked beef.
- Spread the beef and green pepper mixture over the batter in the dish.
- Spread Cheez Whiz over the beef mixture.
- Top with chopped tomato.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added nutrition. If you want to add a kick, mix in diced jalapeños with the green peppers. Ensure the batter is well mixed to avoid lumps, which can affect the texture of your Tamale Squares.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Tamale Squares warm, garnished with chopped cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. These squares pair beautifully with a side of Avocado Tostado Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving with Mexican rice or refried beans on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Tamale Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This dish is just as delicious the next day!
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tamale Squares contains roughly 513 calories, with 12g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), iron (39% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1777mg per serving (77% 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 Squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for a day. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for Cheez Whiz?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can use a combination of shredded cheese such as cheddar or Monterey Jack mixed with a little cream or milk to achieve a similar creamy texture. This will give you a richer flavor while avoiding processed cheese.
Can I freeze Tamale Squares?
Absolutely! Tamale Squares freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then cut into squares and store in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
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).