Easy Tamale Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil
- 4 Tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
- 3 Tablespoons Chili Powder
- 4 Cups Beef Broth
- 6 oz. tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Optional
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 dozen beef
chicken, or pork Tamales, husks removed.
- 2 cups Enchilada sauce
- 2 cups grated cheddar jack cheese
- 2 Tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup Cotija Cheese
Directions
- 1
In a large skillet over medium heat add oil, flour, and chili powder. Mix until well blended. Stir over heat until thick.
- 2
Add 4 cups beef broth, continue stirring until incorporated. Add spices and 6 oz. can of tomato paste. Whisk together until smooth and sauce thickens. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- 3
Preheat oven to 350°
- 4
Grease a 9 x 13 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Line tamales in baking dish. Cover with enchilada sauce, top with cheese, cilantro, and green onion.
- 5
Bake for 35-40 minutes until cheese is melted and sauce is bubbling. Remove from oven and sprinkle with Cotija cheese.
Easy Tamale Casserole
Similar Recipes
Ratings & Reviews
Be the First to Rate
Your rating helps others discover amazing recipes. Share your experience and let others know what you think!
About this Recipe
Craving the hearty comfort of tamales but need an easier way to enjoy them at home? This Easy Tamale Casserole delivers all the satisfying flavors of traditional tamales with a fraction of the effort, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Why This Recipe Works
This casserole shines by taking the hard work out of tamale making while still offering incredible depth of flavor. By starting with pre-made beef, chicken, or pork tamales, you streamline the process. The magic truly happens with the rich, savory homemade enchilada sauce, generously seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and oregano, which infuses every bite with authentic taste. It's a clever way to transform individual tamales into a cohesive, comforting dish.
What to Expect
Prepare for a hearty, comforting experience with this tamale casserole. You'll find tender, flavorful tamales nestled in a savory, aromatic sauce that's both robust and warmly spiced. A blanket of gooey, melted cheddar jack cheese creates a luscious top layer, complementing the rich flavors below. The fresh cilantro and crisp green onions, along with a sprinkle of salty cotija cheese, add bright, herbaceous notes and textural contrast, ensuring each forkful is perfectly balanced and utterly satisfying.
Customization & Variations
You have flexibility with your tamale choice; feel free to use beef, chicken, or pork tamales based on your preference. For those who enjoy a little heat, the optional cayenne pepper can be increased slightly to add more warmth to the rich enchilada sauce. If you don't have cheddar jack cheese, a combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey jack would work beautifully.
Serving & Context
This Easy Tamale Casserole is a fantastic centerpiece for a casual family meal, a potluck, or any occasion where you want to serve comforting, flavorful food. Serve it straight from the oven, garnished generously with the fresh cilantro, green onions, and cotija cheese for a vibrant presentation.