Bean and Cheese Tamales Recipe

When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? Maybe something warm, savory, and satisfying that fills both your stomach and your heart. For many, bean and cheese tamales are the ultimate answer. These delightful pockets of flavor are perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or even a cozy night at home. Let’s dive into why these tamales are a must-try and how you can make them at home with ease!

Why Bean and Cheese Tamales Are So Loved

Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy tamale filled with creamy cheese and perfectly seasoned beans. Isn’t that a mouthwatering thought?

Here’s why bean and cheese tamales stand out:

• Quick and Easy: Unlike meat-filled tamales, this vegetarian version can be prepped in less time, making it beginner-friendly.
• Crowd Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a party or simply feeding your family, these tamales are sure to win everyone over.
• Versatile: You can customize the recipe with your favorite beans, cheese, or even spice level to suit your taste.

Bean and Cheese Tamales

These bean and cheese tamales are the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Made with refried black beans, creamy cheese, and fluffy masa dough, they are a perfect vegetarian option that’s quick and easy to prepare. Whether for holidays or casual dinners, these tamales are sure to impress your family and friends.

5 from 5 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 24 tamales

Calories 149 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Filling

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ medium white onion diced
• 1 jalapeño diced (optional for a spicy kick!)
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 3 cups cooked black beans or 2 cans, undrained
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2⅓ cups shredded Chihuahua® cheese or your preferred melting cheese

For the Masa Dough

• 1 cup lard or vegetable shortening for a vegetarian option
• ½ tablespoon baking powder
• 4 cups masa harina
• 2 teaspoons fine salt
• 3¾ cups chicken broth or vegetable broth for vegetarian tamales
• Other Essentials
• 26 dried corn husks
• Hot water for soaking

Instructions

 

• Prep the Corn Husks: Place the corn husks in a large bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for at least an hour until soft and pliable.
• Make the Filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion and jalapeño until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the black beans and salt. Cook for 5 minutes, then mash to your desired consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.
  
• Prepare the Masa: In a large bowl, beat lard and baking powder until fluffy. Gradually mix in masa harina, salt, and broth. The dough should resemble thick hummus. If it’s too dry, add more broth; if too wet, add masa harina.
  
• Assemble the Tamales: Lay a corn husk flat with the smooth side up. Spread a thin layer of masa over the husk, leaving the top third bare. Add 1½ tablespoons of beans and 1½ tablespoons of cheese in the center. Fold the sides of the husk together like a book, then fold up the pointy end.
  
• Steam the Tamales: Arrange tamales upright in a steamer pot with the open ends facing up. Steam for 90 minutes over medium heat. To check doneness, let a tamale cool for 10 minutes and ensure the masa easily peels away from the husk.
  

Notes

1. Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable shortening and vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.
2. Cheese Selection: Opt for V&V Supremo’s Shredded Chihuahua® Cheese for authentic flavor and perfect melting.
3. Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 6 months.
4. Reheating: Steam for 15 minutes, microwave covered with a damp towel for 1–2 minutes, or bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.

Keyword bean and cheese tamales, easy tamales recipe, Mexican tamales recipe, vegetarian tamales

Image Credit: Isabel Eats

Serving Suggestions

Bean and cheese tamales are best enjoyed warm with your favorite toppings! Try them with:

• A dollop of crema or sour cream
• A sprinkle of cotija cheese
• Salsa verde or roasted tomato salsa for extra flavor

Tips for Perfect Tamales

1. Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and masa up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate until ready to assemble.
2. Double the Batch: Tamales freeze wonderfully! Make extra and store them in the freezer for up to 6 months.
3. Use the Right Side of the Husk: Spread masa on the smooth side of the corn husk for easier unwrapping.

Tips & Variations

1. Advance Prep: Prepare the masa dough and refried beans up to 3 days ahead to save time.
2. Broth Options: Use chicken, beef, or vegetable broth for different flavor profiles.
3. Texture Tips: Ensure the masa is fluffy like thick hummus for the best results.
4. Custom Fillings: Add diced peppers or mix cheeses for a unique twist.
5. Cooking Test: Check doneness by peeling the corn husk—if it removes easily, the tamales are ready.

Feel free to adapt this recipe for your personal preferences while enjoying this classic Mexican dish!

Where to Find Bean and Cheese Tamales Near Me

Not in the mood to cook? Don’t worry! Many Mexican restaurants and specialty shops offer bean and cheese tamales for takeout. Simply search for “bean and cheese tamales near me” to find a local spot that serves this delicious dish.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re new to making tamales or a seasoned pro, this bean and cheese tamale recipe is a winner. It’s a dish packed with flavor, tradition, and love—perfect for sharing with family and friends. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start steaming!

Looking for More Easy Mexican-inspired Recipes?

Here are some must-try recipes that bring authentic Mexican vibes to your kitchen:

• Homemade Mexican Mazapan
• Mexican Tres Leches Latte Coffee
• Nopales con Huevo: A Traditional Mexican Breakfast
• Authentic Birria Recipe
• Baked Chicken Tacos
• Raspados: Mexican Snow Cone
• Mexican Green Spaghetti Recipe
• Champurrado: Mexican Chocolate Drink Recipe
• Cortadillo: Mexican Pink Cake Recipe

Give these recipes a try and bring the vibrant taste of Mexico to your table!

Tried This Recipe?

I’d love to hear how this Bean and Cheese Tamales turned out! Leave a comment or tag @foodiecreator on Instagram, and #foodiecreator on social media to show off your creation.

Don’t forget to pin this recipe and subscribe for more delicious dishes delivered straight to your inbox.