15 Mexican Tamales That Are Full of Flavor

These tamale recipes are great for celebrating special moments or enjoying a festive meal. I’ve picked 15 mouthwatering Mexican recipes that are impossible to resist. Whether you like sweet or savory, these tamales are sure to impress any food lover. Get ready to bring some extra flavor to your next fiesta—your guests will be begging for the recipe!

Chicken Salsa Verde Tamales

A chicken tamal on a corn husk and on a plate next to a fork and salsa. — Instant Pot Chicken Tamales. Photo by Mama Maggie’s Kitchen

Chicken Salsa Verde Tamales are a traditional Mexican favorite, often made for holidays and special occasions. They’re incredibly tasty and full of flavor!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salsa Verde Tamales

Red Pork Tamales

Red Pork Tamales are a staple of Mexican cuisine and taste absolutely amazing! They take some effort to make, but every bite is totally worth it.
Get the recipe: Red Pork Tamales

Instant Pot Chicken Tamales

Save time without sacrificing flavor with Instant Pot Chicken Tamales. These homemade tamales cook in a fraction of the time, featuring a deliciously seasoned filling wrapped in corn husks and topped with salsa verde for a special touch.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Tamales

Chicken Mole Tamales

Picture of a chicken mole tamal next to a Dona Maria mole jar, a cup, and a chocolate grinder. — Chicken Mole Tamales. Photo credit: Mama Maggie’s Kitchen

Enjoy the rich and complex flavors of Chicken Mole Tamales, a delicious dish that blends traditional Mexican ingredients into something truly impressive for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Mole Tamales

Cajeta Tamales

A caramel tamal, inspired by classic tamales recipes, with glossy caramel sauce drizzled on top and garnished with two pecan halves, rests on a textured brown surface. — Cajeta Tamales. Photo by Mama Maggie’s Kitchen

Indulge in the sweet flavors of Tamales de Cajeta. These caramel-filled treats offer a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping things traditionally Mexican.
Get the Recipe: Cajeta Tamales

Tamales de Elote (Sweet Corn Tamales)

A tamale from the rich world of Mexican corn recipes is topped with sour cream and fresh corn, sitting on a plate surrounded by husks, crumbled cheese, cream, cilantro, and a colorful striped cloth on a wooden table. — Tamales de Elote. Photo by Mama Maggie’s Kitchen

Tamales de Elote (Sweet Corn Tamales) are soft, buttery, and absolutely delicious. Made with canned corn for a simple twist on the classic recipe, they’re perfect for celebrations or just because!
Get Recipe: Tamales de Elote

Green Pork Tamales

Experience the bold, authentic taste of Green Pork Tamales, featuring tender shredded pork and tangy tomatillo sauce, all wrapped in corn husks for a true Mexican classic.
Get the Recipe: Green Pork Tamales

Breakfast Tamales (using Leftover Tamales)

Breakfast tamales served with two runny eggs, green salsa, and sliced jalapenos. — Breakfast Tamales. Photo By Mama Maggie’s Kitchen

Got extra tamales? Turn them into a delicious breakfast by adding a runny egg and some salsa. It’s a simple way to enjoy bold flavors while making sure nothing goes to waste!
Get Recipe: Breakfast Tamales

Roasted Poblano Peppers and Cheese Tamales

Tamales de Rajas served in a large blue plate and café de olla served in a mug — Tamales de Rajas. Photo by Mama Maggie’s Kitchen

For a classic and flavorful option, try Tamales de Rajas con Queso. These tamales are filled with gooey cheese and roasted poblano peppers, making them a tasty addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Poblano Peppers and Cheese Tamales

Sweet Tamales (Tamales Dulces)

Tamales Dulces (Sweet Tamales) unwrapped and still in the corn husk. — Tamales Dulces. Photo credit: Mama Maggie’s Kitchen

Tamales Dulces put a sweet spin on traditional tamales. Stuffed with fruits and nuts, they make the perfect dessert for family get-togethers!
Get the Recipe: Tamales Dulces

Birria Tamales

A hand holding half of a birria tamal over a bowl of beef consome. — Birria Tamales. Photo by Mama Maggie’s Kitchen

Birria Tamales are packed with tender, flavorful beef and cooked in a rich, savory sauce. Steamed in corn husks, they’re best enjoyed with a side of consommé for dipping!
Get the Recipe: Birria Tamales

Strawberry Tamales

An unwrapped strawberry tamal sitting on a white plate next to three fresh strawberries. — Strawberry Tamales. Photo by Mama Maggie’s Kitchen

Strawberry Tamales are a fruity delight! Made with fresh, juicy strawberries and soft masa dough, these sweet tamales are a fun twist on a classic.
Get the Recipes: Strawberry Tamales

Masa for Tamales

This Easy Masa for Tamales Recipe is the key to making light, fluffy tamales at home. It comes together in minutes with just a few ingredients, making tamale-making easier than ever.
Get Recipe: Masa for Tamales

Beef Tamales

Try the rich and savory taste of Beef Tamales, where perfectly seasoned beef is wrapped in soft masa for an unforgettable Mexican dish.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tamales

Pumpkin Tamales

Pumpkin Tamales are a sweet, spiced treat that’s perfect for cozy fall meals. Their warm flavors make them a must-try for any dessert lover.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Tamales