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Hearty tamale dip is filled with the familiar flavors of a mouth-watering cheesy chicken tamale. Even better, it’s much easier to make and takes less than half the time!

As with most dips, it is simple to put together and a flavorful, yummy dip to share at your next party. For more delectable dips try Buffalo Chicken Dip, 7 Layer Bean Dip, and Spinach Artichoke Dip.

Tamale dip in dish


Tamales in Dip Form!

Our family has always loved tamales for as long as I can remember. I mean, we are Mexican (even if we don’t look like it!!). The problem is, tamales are a lot of work and mostly because when we make them, we like to make at least 20-30 dozen (we have a big family and usually only make them once a year).

With that in mind, we were happy to find this tamale pie dip recipe because it had the flavors of tamales but in a dip form. It was also SOO much easier to make!! Another reason why we loved the recipe is because we love trying out new dips with tortilla chips.

We have them so often and although we enjoy our classic dip recipes, it’s nice to change it up. Our family loved this recipe so much that this was gone in no time. The hubby even declared it his new favorite dip recipe. You know that means something considering he’s an avid dipper. 😉

How to Make Tamale Dip

PREP. Coat a 9 inch quiche dish or deep dish pie plate with cooking spray and set aside.

BLEND. In a processor or blender, mix cream cheese, 1 cup cheese, corn, tomatoes, sour cream, garlic and chili powder until almost smooth.

MIX. Stir chicken in by hand.

SPOON & TOP. Spoon mixture into greased dish. Top with remaining 1 cup cheese. Drizzle with oil.

BAKE. Bake at 325.for 45 minutes.

GARNISH & SERVE. Garnish with desired toppings and serve.

Slow Cooker Instructions: You can make this dip in the slow cooker. You will not get a crispy cheese topping, but the flavors will be just as delicious. 

  1. Start by spraying your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Complete step 2
  3. Add all of the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook the dip for 2 hours on high or 4 hours on low. The chili will be ready when it is melted and creamy.
  4. Add the last cup of cheese during the final 30-40 minutes of cook time. 
  5. Garnish if you desire. 
Tamale dip recipe in dish

Tips for Serving and Storing

Spice them up: You can either make the dip spicey or provide some spice on the side for people to add to their liking. Some easy ingredients include: red chili flakes, Cayenne pepper, or hot sauce. 

More dipping options: We like to use tortilla chips to eat this dip but you can also use other chips like fritos,  crackers like ritz and even quesadilla strips. 

Serve your tamale dip with a delicious Mexican entree such as:

Storage: Store leftover sip in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it for a couple minutes in the microwave. You can also freeze leftovers. Though it may take on a slightly different texture. To store: place in an  airtight freezer safe container, label, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheat slowly and stir frequently.

tamale pie dip recipe

 For more savory dips and salsas, try:

5 from 12 votes

Tamale Dip Recipe

By: Lil’ Luna
Tamale Pie Dip – this cheesy dip is going to be a new favorite at any gathering! Filled with shredded chicken, creamed corn, cream cheese, Mexican cheese, and sour cream!
Servings: 8
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 45 minutes
Total: 50 minutes

Ingredients 

  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 2 cup mexican blend cheese
  • 14 oz creamed corn
  • 8 oz tomatoes diced
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken shredded
  • salt
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Toppings: sour cream, olives, cilantro, etc.

Instructions 

  • Coat a 9 inch quiche dish or deep dish pie plate with cooking spray and set aside.
  • In a processor or blender, mix cream cheese, 1 cup cheese, corn, tomatoes, sour cream, garlic and chili powder until almost smooth. Stir chicken in by hand.
  • Spoon mixture into greased dish. Top with remaining 1 cup cheese. Drizzle with oil. Bake at 325.for 45 minutes.
  • Garnish with desired toppings and serve

Nutrition

Calories: 429kcal, Carbohydrates: 13g, Protein: 21g, Fat: 33g, Saturated Fat: 18g, Cholesterol: 110mg, Sodium: 677mg, Potassium: 289mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 4g, Vitamin A: 1265IU, Vitamin C: 6.8mg, Calcium: 441mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Mexican
Making this recipe? Tag us!
Share it with us on Instagram using the hashtag #lilluna, so we can see what you’re creating in the kitchen!

Adapted from “Pillsbury Dump Can Recipes” Magazine



About Kristyn

My name is Kristyn and I’m the mom of SIX stinkin’ cute kids and the wife to my smokin’ hot hubby, Lo. My mom’s maiden name is Luna, and I’m one of the many crafty “Lil’ Lunas” in the fam. On this site I like to share all things creative - from recipes to home decor to gifts and home decor ideas. Welcome!

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11 Comments

  1. The recipe calls for 8 oz tomatoes “dived”. This looks like a typo, is it diced tomatoes? I have not made the recipe yet but I am looking forward to trying it for Superbowl!

    Thank you

  2. 5 stars
    THis was a hit at our family get together! We could have just eaten this as the meal dish! It was devoured quickly!

  3. Love the recipes! I really love the decorative square dish you are doing your recipes in. Can you please tell me where you bought it I would love to have a couple of them!!!

    1. Oh, I wish I remembered. They might have been from Home Goods or TJMAXX. Hope that helps..sorry, I don’t know for sure!