Enjoy all the delicious flavors of tamales with this healthier, low-calorie twist. Using lean ground beef and a few smart ingredient swaps, this recipe keeps the calories in check without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
- 454 g lean ground beef (90% lean) – high in protein but lower in fat.
- 1/3 cup chopped sweet red pepper.
- 1/3 cup chopped green pepper.
- 1 cup no-salt-added salsa – a lower-sodium alternative.
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn – use fresh if possible for better flavor and fewer preservatives.
- 2 tablespoons water.
- 4 small corn tortillas (6 inches), halved and cut into 1/2-inch strips – fewer tortillas for reduced carbs.
- 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese.
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt – a lighter, protein-packed alternative to sour cream.
Method
- Cook the Beef & Veggies: In a large non-stick skillet coated with a spritz of olive oil spray, cook the ground beef, red pepper, and green pepper over medium heat for 6-8 minutes. Crumble the beef as it cooks, and drain any excess fat once the meat is no longer pink and the vegetables are tender.
- Add the Salsa Mixture:Stir in the salsa, corn, and water. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer with Tortillas: Stir in the tortilla strips and reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the tortillas soften and absorb the liquid.
- Cheesy Layer: Sprinkle the reduced-fat cheese evenly over the mixture. Cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Serve: Divide the mixture into 4 portions and top each with 1/2 tablespoon of Greek yogurt for a creamy, tangy finish.
Salsa Recipe:
- 4 medium tomatoes (chopped)
- 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
- 1 jalapeño (seeded, chopped)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin (optional)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Directions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Adjust lime juice or jalapeño for taste.
- Let sit for 15 minutes. Serve fresh or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Why This Recipe is Lighter:
- Lean ground beef keeps the dish hearty and flavorful while reducing fat content.
- Lower-sodium salsa helps control salt levels without compromising on taste.
- Fewer tortillas and reduced-fat cheese cut down on calories while retaining texture and creaminess.
- Greek yogurt is a healthier, protein-rich alternative to sour cream.
This low-calorie skillet beef tamales recipe is quick to make, easy on the calories, and perfect for a wholesome family dinner or meal prep! Each serving is packed with bold flavors, fiber, and satisfying protein.
