Tamale Pie

Tamale Pie is a hearty Tex-Mex casserole featuring a seasoned ground beef filling with corn, tomatoes, and black olives, topped with a creamy, cheesy cornmeal layer. This baked tamale pie recipe is perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or casual gatherings. The combination of savory beef, melted cheese, and golden cornmeal topping creates a flavorful, comforting dish that pairs well with sour cream, tortilla chips, and hot sauce.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (85–90% lean)
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• ½ cup diced green bell pepper
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 14.5 oz canned diced tomatoes
• 8 oz canned tomato sauce
• 1 cup frozen yellow corn (no need to thaw)
• 2.25 oz canned sliced black olives, drained
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper (or to taste)
• ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Cornmeal Topping

• 1 ½ cups milk (2% recommended)
• 1 tbsp sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp butter
• ½ cup cornmeal
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

For Serving

• Sour cream
• Tortilla chips
• Hot sauce (e.g., Cholula)

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Instructions

Prepare the Filling

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 13 × 9-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the onion and green bell pepper until the beef is no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
3. Stir in garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, corn, olives, chili powder, cumin, salt, crushed red pepper, and black pepper. Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Transfer the filling to the prepared baking dish.

Prepare the Cornmeal Topping

5. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, sugar, salt, and butter. Heat until butter is melted.
6. Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in cornmeal, whisking vigorously after each addition until smooth. Continue stirring for 2–3 minutes, or until thickened.
7. Remove from heat, stir in shredded cheese, then slowly drizzle in the beaten eggs while mixing vigorously until fully combined.

Assemble and Bake

8. Pour the cornmeal mixture over the meat filling, spreading evenly (it’s okay if it doesn’t reach the edges).
9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
10. Allow the pie to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Serve with sour cream, tortilla chips, and hot sauce.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tamale Pie is a hearty, comforting dish with a savory beef filling and creamy, cheesy cornmeal topping. It combines classic Tex-Mex flavors in an easy, baked casserole perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or casual gatherings.

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Tips

• Brown the beef thoroughly and drain excess fat for a lighter filling.
• Stir the cornmeal constantly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth topping.
• Let the pie rest after baking to help the topping set for easier slicing.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a different option.
• Cheese: Use pepper jack or Mexican blend cheese for added flavor.
• Vegetables: Add diced zucchini, red bell pepper, or jalapeños for extra texture and spice.

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FAQs

Q: Can this pie be made ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare the filling and topping separately, then assemble and refrigerate. Bake before serving.

Q: Can I freeze Tamale Pie?
A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes, cornmeal is naturally gluten-free. Ensure all canned ingredients and spices are gluten-free.

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Serving

• Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream and tortilla chips on the side.
• Add hot sauce for extra spice.
• Pair with a fresh salad or Mexican rice for a complete meal.