Tamales

Explore 12+ authentic tamales recipes perfect for every occasion. From easy to gourmet, satisfy your cravings today!

12 recipes

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Chocolate tamales with pecans and dried cherries

Authentic Beef Tamales

8 hours36 servings

Beef Tamales

Make beef tamales from scratch with tender spicy beef wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection for a crowd-pleasing Mexican treat.

5 hours36 servings347 kcal

Tamale Sauce

Smoky Tex-Mex sauce ready in 15 minutes or less! Yields 2 cups, the perfect amount to generously cover a dozen tamales.

5.0(3)15 minutes6 servings48 kcal

Pineapple Tamales

Those delicious pineapple tamales are soft, moist, and perfectly sweet. The pecans add a nice crunchy texture alongside the moist and plump raisins.

90 minutes12 servings

Carnitas

This Pork Carnitas recipe so easy to make and perfect for serving in tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tamales or salads.

5.0(106)

Hot Tamales

Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to present the tamale: cooked corn dough formed around a spicy filling, all wrapped up in a corn husk and steamed. Tamales are pure simplicity. Down in the Mississippi Delta, that mysterious ellipse of land that runs west of Highway 55 from Vicksburg to Memphis, the "hot tamale" is king, the result of the cultural and culinary influence of migrant Mexican workers who, around the turn of the last century, taught their African-American field-mates the wonders of this highly nutritious, cheap, comforting, and communicable dish. They remain to the day as much a part of the Delta as the blues. This recipe first appeared in Season 13 of Good Eats.Photo by Lynne Calamia

Easy Tamale Casserole

Pre-made beef, chicken, or pork tamales in a rich savory homemade enchilada sauce topped with melted cheese, fresh chopped cilantro and green onions, and a hearty sprinkle of cotija cheese.

55 minutes8 servings

Cheesy Tamale Sauce

A spiced up cheesy sauce that's perfect when poured over tamales or really any Tex-mex or Spanish inspired dish!

5 minutes

California Tamale Pie

When I serve California Tamale Pie, I know I’ll see smiles on the faces of everyone at the table. With this recipe, you’ll enjoy the taste and texture of classic tamales, without the time and hassle. —Patricia Nieh, Portola Valley, California

How To Make Vegan Tamales

How to make vegan tamales with 8 filling options, step-by-step instructions, top tips, FAQs, storage recommendations, and more! These vegan/vegetarian tamales are perfect for enjoying during the holidays, potlucks, and celebrations year round!

4.9(77)75 minutes20 servings

Chicken Tamale Pie

Tamales, but with a Southern twist. We pay homage to the tamale's corn husk by using a corn muffin base for this innovative Chicken Tamale Pie recipe.

50 minutes0 servings

Discover Your Next Favorite Tamales Recipes

Are you ready to dive into the world of delicious tamales? With 12 scrumptious options, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to satisfy your cravings. From savory chicken tamale pies to sweet chocolate tamales with pecans, these recipes promise to delight your taste buds and impress your family or guests. Plus, tamales are versatile and easy to customize to fit your dietary needs or personal preferences!

Why You'll Love These Tamales Recipes

Tamales are not only a staple in Mexican cuisine but also a fantastic choice for any gathering. Here’s why you’ll adore these recipes:

Variety: Whether you’re in the mood for authentic beef tamales or a healthier vegan option, there’s something for everyone in our collection.
Flavorful Fillings: Each tamale offers rich, bold flavors, making every bite a celebration.
Fun to Make: Gather your family or friends for a tamale-making party! Preparing these tasty bites is a great way to enjoy each other’s company.

Tips for Perfect Tamales

Choose the Right Corn Masa: Look for masa harina specifically labeled for tamales for the best texture and taste.
Soak Corn Husks: Before assembling, soak your corn husks in warm water to make them pliable and easy to work with.
Don’t Overfill: While it might be tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, remember that tamales expand as they cook. Use a modest amount for the best results.
Steam Thoroughly: Ensure your tamales are perfectly steamed by checking that the water doesn’t run dry during cooking. They usually take about an hour to cook through—just enough time to prepare your favorite sides!

Popular Variations

Explore these delicious variations to elevate your tamales:

Cheesy Tamale Sauce: Drizzle this over your tamales for an extra layer of flavor.
Carnitas Tamales: Embrace the rich, savory flavors of pulled pork for a heartier option.
Sweet Tamales: Try chocolate tamales stuffed with dried cherries for a delightful dessert twist.
Skillet Beef Tamales: A unique take that offers a quick and easy way to enjoy the flavors of traditional tamales without the wrapping!

Start Exploring Our Tamales Recipes

You’ve seen the highlights, now it’s time to get cooking! Browse our collection of 12 delicious tamales recipes to discover your favorites. Each recipe delivers an exceptional experience, bringing the flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen. Roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of making these delightful treats!

Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, tamales are guaranteed to impress, so get started today!

Tamales