60

min
  • dinners

Tamale Pie

Tamale Pie is a delightful twist on traditional tamales, featuring a cornmeal base that’s hearty and filling. It combines the warm, comforting essence of cornbread with the bold flavors of spicy beef and vibrant vegetables, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. This casserole-style dish is layered with rich flavors, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to impress your guests.

  • SERVES
    6 people
  • PREP TIME
    20 minutes
  • Cook TIME
    40 minutes
Ingredients
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1 jalapeño, diced (optional, for extra heat)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine cornmeal, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk and vegetable oil until smooth; set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
  4. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  5. Stir in chili powder, cumin, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and jalapeño (if using). Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  6. In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the cornmeal mixture evenly on the bottom.
  7. Layer the beef and vegetable mixture over the cornmeal base.
  8. Pour the remaining cornmeal mixture over the beef layer, smoothing it out gently.
  9. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  11. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Tamale Pie is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that transports you to the heart of the Southwestern United States. This dish draws inspiration from traditional tamales, where the delightful corn dough is wrapped around a savory filling. However, we’ve taken a bold step by transforming it into a hearty casserole that embodies the spirit of comfort food while allowing for a unique twist.

In this recipe, the spicy beef mixture is enhanced with black beans and corn, offering a robust flavor profile that sets it apart from the typical tamale version. The addition of jalapeño adds a kick, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

"This Tamale Pie was inspired by my love for combining classic comfort foods with bold flavors. I wanted to create a dish that brings the heartiness of cornbread and the delightful spice of tamales together in an easy-to-serve format."

The result is a dish that’s not only visually appealing but also satisfies the hunger of a crowd. Serve it with a side of avocado salad or a dollop of sour cream to create a balanced meal. The layers of flavor make this Tamale Pie an excellent choice for potlucks, gatherings, or simply when you crave something deliciously different. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this dish, and don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients!

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