Name: Authentic Beef Tamales That Will Steal Your Heart
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 150 min
Total time: 190 min
Ingredients: 3 pounds Beef Shoulder Roast (can substitute with top sirloin or bottom round); 4 cloves Garlic (increase for more flavor); 1 medium Onion (yellow onion preferred); 4 cups Beef Broth (homemade preferred); 1 tablespoon Salt (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Pepper (swap with cayenne for spicy); 1 Bay Leaf (remove before blending); 6 pieces Guajillo Chiles (can substitute with California chiles); 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin; 4 cups Masa (prepared) (consider using olive oil masa); 1/2 cup Oil (canola or vegetable oil); 20 pieces Corn Husks (soak in warm water)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I unwrapped my first tamale at a family gathering, the aroma of spices and tender beef enveloped me like a warm hug. These Beef Tamales, or Tamales de Res, hold a special place in my heart as comfort food that brings family and friends to the table, celebrating tradition and togetherness. With their soft masa, expertly infused with flavors, and a juicy filling that captures the essence of authentic Mexican cuisine, this recipe is both a delightful challenge and a gratifying reward. Plus, they’re perfect for freezing—making mealtime a breeze on busy days. Ready to experience the warmth of homemade tamales? Let’s dive into this delicious journey together!

Why Are These Beef Tamales Special?

Authenticity is at the heart of this recipe, bringing traditional flavors straight from Mexico to your home kitchen. Comforting and Hearty, these tamales are filled with juicy beef, offering a heartwarming dish perfect for family gatherings. Versatile Options allow you to experiment with variations like Tamales de Frijol or even spicy Jalapeno Cheese Tamales, catering to everyone’s taste buds. Time-Saving delights await, as these tamales freeze beautifully for quick meals later! Meal Prep Fun—invite friends over for a tamale-making party and create lasting memories while enjoying the cooking process.

Beef Tamales Ingredients

• Dive into the heart of authentic flavors with these delicious Beef Tamales!

For the Filling

Beef Shoulder Roast – Rich flavor is key; you can substitute with top sirloin or bottom round for a leaner option.
Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; feel free to increase for more flavor.
Onion – Choose yellow onion for the best sweetness; it complements the beef beautifully.
Beef Broth – Moisture and depth; homemade broth is preferred, but feel free to use chicken broth if needed.
Salt – Essential for balancing flavors; adjust to suit your taste.
Pepper – Gives a mild heat; swap with cayenne if you desire a spicier kick.
Bay Leaf – Infuses your filling with earthy flavor; remember to remove it before blending your sauce.
Guajillo Chiles – Forms the backbone of the red chile sauce; you can substitute with California chiles if desired.
Ground Cumin – Adds warmth and enhances the beef flavor perfectly.

For the Masa

Masa (prepared) – The base for your tamales; consider using masa made from olive oil for a healthier alternative.
Oil – Use canola or vegetable oil when blending your masa to enhance its texture.

For Wrapping

Corn Husks – Essential for wrapping; soak them in warm water for flexibility and added flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Beef Tamales

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat and sear the seasoned beef shoulder roast until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Pour in the beef broth, then add chopped garlic, onion, and a bay leaf. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 2 hours until the beef is fork-tender. Remove the beef and allow it to rest; reserve the broth for later.

Step 2: Blend the Sauce
While the beef cools, prepare the sauce by soaking guajillo chiles in hot water for 15 minutes. Once softened, blend the chiles with reserved broth, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour the sauce into a pot and heat it on medium until bubbling, then stir in the shredded beef and cook for another 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Step 3: Soak the Corn Husks
While the sauce is heating, soak the corn husks in a large bowl of hot water for about 30 minutes. This process makes the husks pliable, ideal for wrapping your beef tamales. Keep an eye on them; they should feel soft and easy to bend when ready.

Step 4: Assemble the Tamales
Once your husks are ready, take one husk and spread about 2-3 tablespoons of prepared masa across the center, leaving space at the edges. Add a generous spoonful of the beef filling and fold the sides over the masa. Then, fold the bottom of the husk up and secure it tightly. Repeat this process until all tamales are assembled.

Step 5: Steam the Tamales
In a large steamer pot, arrange the tamales upright, standing them on their folded ends. Fill the bottom of the steamer with water, ensuring it doesn’t touch the tamales. Cover with a towel and a lid, then steam over medium heat for approximately 1.5 hours. Check occasionally to ensure there’s enough water, and steam until the masa easily pulls away from the husks.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once the tamales are steamed and cooked, carefully remove them from the steamer and allow them to cool slightly for 10 minutes before unwrapping. Serve your delicious beef tamales warm, alongside salsa or sour cream for added richness!

How to Store and Freeze Beef Tamales

Room Temperature: Beef tamales can be safely kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours; after that, they should be refrigerated to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store leftover beef tamales in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat by steaming them for the best texture and flavor.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze beef tamales in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag for up to 6 months, ensuring they’re well-sealed.
Reheating: Reheat frozen tamales by steaming them directly from the freezer for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy the comforting taste of homemade beef tamales anytime!

Make Ahead Options

These Beef Tamales are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef filling up to 3 days in advance—just sauté the beef, let it cool, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. The corn husks can be soaked and stored in the refrigerator overnight, keeping them pliable for easy assembly. When you’re ready to enjoy your tamales, simply assemble them with soaked husks, fresh masa, and your prepared filling. Steam for about 1.5 hours until heated through. This way, you’ll have homemade beef tamales on the table with minimal effort, allowing you to savor authentic flavors without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with Beef Tamales

Experience the joy of creating a delicious, full meal that perfectly complements the rich flavors of your homemade tamales!

Salsa Verde: This zesty, green salsa adds a refreshing burst of flavor, enhancing the rich beef filling with its tangy brightness.
Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs and spices offers a warm, comforting side that pairs beautifully with savory tamales.
Refried Beans: Creamy and hearty, refried beans provide a satisfying, protein-packed side that elevates your meal experience.
Crispy Corn Tortillas: Serve warm, slightly crispy tortillas on the side for a delightful texture that can scoop up the tamales or toppings.
Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip is a crowd-pleaser, bringing a fresh and buttery element that balances the robust flavors of the tamales.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn topped with creamy cheese and spices creates a vibrant and festive addition that complements your meal perfectly.
Chilled Horchata: This refreshing rice drink is mildly sweet and aromatic, offering a delightful contrast to the spicy notes of beef tamales.
Flan: Dessert doesn’t get better than this silky caramel custard, providing a sweet, satisfying finish to a hearty meal filled with tradition.

Beef Tamales Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore various twists on this authentic recipe to create something uniquely yours!

Vegetarian: Replace beef with black beans or roasted veggies for a delightful meatless option that bursts with flavor. Consider adding fresh herbs to elevate the dish.
Cheesy: Incorporate cheese, such as queso fresco or Monterey Jack, into the beef filling for an extra creamy, melt-in-your-mouth treat. This twist creates a delightful texture and flavor experience.
Spicy: Toss in diced jalapeños or sprinkle in some chipotle powder for a kick! This addition awakens your taste buds and transforms each tamale into a fiery delight.
Chicken Tamales: Swap beef for shredded chicken cooked in a similar fashion. This lighter option remains flavorful and tender, perfect for those who prefer poultry.
Smoky Flavor: Infuse your masa with chipotle powder or smoked paprika for a robust depth. Each bite will be filled with a unique smokiness, transforming the ordinary into something spectacular.
Tomatillo Sauce: Instead of the traditional red sauce, try using a green tomatillo sauce to complement the beef. The tangy flavor adds a fresh, vibrant contrast that invigorates the dish.
Pumpkin Masa: For a delightful autumn twist, mix some pumpkin puree into your masa. This unexpected flavor pairs beautifully with the savory beef and adds moisture to the tamales.
Dairy-Free: Opt for plant-based alternatives like coconut oil and non-dairy cheese to keep your tamales rich without the dairy. This twist still delivers a comforting experience and accommodates dietary restrictions.

Don’t hesitate to explore additional flavor combinations or check out my delightful Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps for more ideas! Your culinary adventure awaits!

Expert Tips for Beef Tamales

Soak Corn Husks: Ensure corn husks are soaked in warm water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from tearing when you wrap your tamales.
Cool Filling: Allow the beef filling to cool slightly before adding it to the masa. This helps prevent the masa from cooking unevenly and ensures a better texture.
Adjust Masa Consistency: If your masa is too crumbly, add a bit more broth or oil until you achieve a smooth, spreadable texture essential for perfect beef tamales.
Evenly Distribute Filling: Be sure to place the beef filling evenly along the masa to ensure each tamale has a hearty bite. Overfilling can cause them to burst while steaming.
Steam Properly: Check the water level in the steamer during cooking. Keeping enough water is critical for excellent steam circulation, making sure your beef tamales cook evenly.
Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add spices like smoked paprika to the masa for added depth. Customizing flavors can elevate your beef tamales to the next level!

Beef Tamales Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right corn husks for making tamales?
Absolutely! When selecting corn husks, look for ones that are pliable and free from dark spots or holes. They should be a light brown color with a few natural wrinkles. Soaking them in warm water for about 30 minutes enhances their flexibility, making wrapping a breeze.

What is the best way to store leftover beef tamales?
For sure! You can store leftover beef tamales in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Place them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a fantastic option!

Can I freeze beef tamales, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze beef tamales, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer the frozen tamales to a zip-top freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 6 months. When ready to enjoy, steam them directly from the freezer for about 30-40 minutes until heated through.

What should I do if my masa is too crumbly?
No worries! If your masa is crumbly, simply add a bit more beef broth or oil—a tablespoon at a time—until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency. This texture is crucial for wrapping tamales nicely without falling apart.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very much! If you’re cooking for someone with particular dietary restrictions, consider substituting beef with shredded chicken or even going vegetarian with black bean or cheese fillings. Always check if any of your guests have food allergies, especially to common ingredients like gluten or dairy.

How can I tell when my beef tamales are done cooking?
Perfect question! Your beef tamales will be ready when the masa easily pulls away from the husk, and the filling is steaming hot. This typically takes about 1.5 hours in the steamer. If you want to be extra sure, you can check one tamale; they should be soft and fluffy!