Easy & Comforting Tamale Pie: Your Go-To Weeknight Casserole
Discover the ultimate weeknight dinner solution with our Tamale Pie recipe! This comforting casserole features a savory, seasoned ground beef filling, a hearty, slightly sweet cornbread crust, and a generous layer of melted cheese, all crowned with your favorite taco toppings. It’s a family-friendly meal that effortlessly combines classic flavors into one irresistible dish, perfect for busy evenings.
Why You’ll Love This Tamale Pie Recipe
Tamale Pie isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings together the best of Mexican-inspired flavors and classic American comfort food. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation:
- Effortless Weeknight Meal: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cook time of around 40 minutes, this recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you need a delicious, homemade meal on the table fast.
- Family Favorite: This casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Kids and adults alike will devour the cheesy, meaty goodness, making dinner time a breeze without any complaints.
- Hearty & Satisfying: Combining a fluffy cornbread base with a robust ground beef filling and a generous layer of cheese, this Tamale Pie is incredibly filling and satisfying. It’s a complete meal in one dish, meaning less work for you!
- Customizable Flavors: The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level, swap out proteins, or get creative with your favorite taco toppings to suit everyone’s preferences.
- Perfect for Leftovers: If you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers, they reheat wonderfully, making for convenient lunches or another quick dinner later in the week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tamale Pie
Got questions before you start cooking? We’ve got answers to ensure your Tamale Pie turns out perfectly every time.
I actually don’t recommend using a smaller dish. You really need to use the 9×9-inch dish for this recipe. An 8×8-inch dish would likely cause the casserole to overflow during baking, creating a messy situation and potentially uneven cooking.
While it’s called a “pie,” the volume of this recipe requires a deep dish. You could certainly use a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan. Alternatively, an oven-safe skillet (like a cast-iron skillet) of a similar size would work beautifully, adding a rustic touch to your presentation.
This tamale casserole is incredibly hearty and stands well on its own as a complete meal. However, if you’re looking to round out your dinner, consider pairing it with a light and refreshing side salad, a bowl of warm black beans or refried beans, or a serving of Mom’s Easy Spanish Rice or Enchilada Rice. For a fun appetizer, chips and queso or chips and fresh Salsa are always a hit!
Leftover Tamale Pie should be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
For best results, leftovers can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, usually about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until hot. Adding a splash of water or broth before microwaving can help keep the cornbread moist.
Absolutely! This recipe is very adaptable. Ground turkey or ground chicken would make excellent leaner alternatives to ground beef. Simply cook them in the same way, ensuring they are fully cooked and any excess moisture is simmered off before adding the taco seasoning.
Yes, if you love a kick, there are several ways to add more spice! You can use a spicy taco seasoning packet, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture, or incorporate diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled) with the onions. Serve with a dollop of hot sauce or a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro for an extra flavor boost.
No problem! If you don’t have Jiffy, you can use any other brand of cornbread mix of a similar weight (usually around 8.5 ounces). Many brands like Martha White are roughly the same size and will work perfectly. Alternatively, you can use your favorite Homemade Cornbread recipe, adjusting the liquid ingredients to match the texture needed for a pourable batter.
Essential Ingredients for Your Tamale Pie
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Tamale Pie. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some helpful tips and substitutions:
- Jiffy Cornbread Mix: An 8.5-ounce box of Jiffy cornbread mix provides the perfect foundation for our pie, offering a sweet and tender crust. If Jiffy isn’t available, any similar sized cornbread mix (like Martha White) will work, or you can opt for your favorite Homemade Cornbread recipe. Ensure the batter consistency is pourable.
- Creamed Corn: One 14.75-ounce can of creamed corn adds an incredible layer of moisture, sweetness, and unique texture to the cornbread crust. It truly complements the savory meat filling. If you’re not a fan of creamed corn, you can omit it, but be aware the cornbread might be slightly drier. You could potentially substitute with a small amount of milk or buttermilk to maintain moisture.
- Sour Cream: Half a cup of sour cream is crucial for adding richness and moistness to the cornbread. Don’t worry, it won’t make the cornbread sour; instead, it contributes to a tender, flavorful crust. Full-fat or light sour cream both work. Greek yogurt can be a good substitute for a tangier flavor and similar moisture.
- Large Egg: One large egg acts as a binder, helping the cornbread batter hold its shape and achieve a lovely rise.
- Ground Beef: One pound of ground beef forms the hearty, savory core of the Tamale Pie. For best results, use a lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10) to minimize excess grease. As mentioned, ground turkey or chicken are excellent leaner alternatives.
- Small Sweet Onion: A finely diced small sweet onion adds a foundational layer of aromatic flavor to the meat mixture. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use yellow onion, or omit it entirely if you’re not an onion fan.
- Taco Seasoning Packet: One 1-ounce packet of taco seasoning is your secret weapon for quickly infusing the ground beef with authentic Tex-Mex flavor. You can use store-bought for convenience or whip up your own Homemade Taco Seasoning. Adjust the spice level by choosing mild, regular, or hot seasoning.
- Water: Three-quarters of a cup of water helps the taco seasoning blend perfectly with the meat, creating a rich, flavorful sauce. Chicken or beef broth can also be used for an even deeper flavor.
- Shredded Colby Jack Cheese: Two cups of shredded Colby Jack cheese melts beautifully over the top, adding a creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying finish. Feel free to use your favorite cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Mexican blend, or even Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.
- Dried Parsley (optional, for garnish): A light sprinkling of dried parsley at the end adds a touch of color and visual appeal, but it’s purely for garnish and doesn’t impact the overall flavor. Fresh cilantro, chopped, would be another fantastic, flavorful garnish.
- Your Favorite Taco Toppings (for serving): This is where you can truly personalize each serving! Essential toppings often include extra sour cream, fresh diced tomatoes, vibrant pico de gallo, creamy guacamole, or sliced black olives. Get creative and add what you love!
How to Make the Best Tamale Pie: Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this delicious Tamale Pie is straightforward. Follow these easy steps for a comforting meal that will quickly become a family favorite.
- Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set it aside while you prepare the cornbread batter.
- Mix the Cornbread Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Jiffy cornbread mix, the can of creamed corn, sour cream, and the large egg. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined and there are no dry patches of cornbread mix visible. The batter should be thick but pourable.
- Bake the Cornbread Base: Pour the prepared cornbread batter evenly into your greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Gently smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown, cooked through, and springs back lightly to the touch when gently pressed in the center.
- Prepare the Savory Meat Mixture: While the cornbread is baking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and the finely diced sweet onion to the hot skillet. Break up the ground beef into crumbles using a spoon or spatula. Cook the mixture for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ground beef is completely browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to prevent your pie from becoming oily.
- Season the Meat: Once the beef is browned and drained, add the taco seasoning packet and the water to the skillet. Stir well to combine, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the meat. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until most of the liquid has cooked out and the sauce has thickened. This creates a rich, flavorful filling.
- Assemble the Pie Layers: Once the cornbread base is baked, carefully remove it from the oven. Evenly spread the seasoned ground beef mixture over the hot cornbread crust.
- Add Cheese and Final Bake: Sprinkle the two cups of shredded Colby Jack cheese generously over the top of the meat mixture. Return the baking dish to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, add a light sprinkling of dried parsley for a pop of color. Let the Tamale Pie rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving immediately.
- Enjoy with Toppings: Serve individual slices with a selection of your favorite taco toppings such as extra sour cream, diced tomatoes, pico de gallo, or guacamole. Enjoy your homemade, comforting Tamale Pie!
Tips for the Best Tamale Pie
- Don’t Overmix the Cornbread: When combining the cornbread ingredients, mix just until no dry streaks remain. Overmixing can lead to a tough cornbread crust.
- Drain the Grease: Make sure to thoroughly drain any excess grease from the ground beef after cooking. This prevents your Tamale Pie from being too oily and ensures a cleaner flavor.
- Customize Your Spice: Feel free to adjust the heat level to your family’s preference. Use mild, regular, or spicy taco seasoning. A pinch of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce in the meat mixture can also add extra warmth.
- Cheese Matters: While Colby Jack is recommended, experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend for different flavor profiles. For a spicier kick, use pepper jack cheese.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the Tamale Pie to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve cleanly.
- Add Fresh Herbs: While dried parsley is optional for garnish, a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro after baking adds a wonderful, bright, fresh flavor that complements the Tex-Mex profile perfectly.
Delicious Variations to Try
This Tamale Pie recipe is a fantastic starting point, but don’t be afraid to experiment with variations to make it uniquely yours:
- Chicken Tamale Pie: Swap out the ground beef for ground chicken or shredded cooked chicken. If using shredded chicken, you can reduce the cooking time for the meat mixture.
- Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, use a plant-based ground crumble or a mixture of black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers as the filling. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Bean Boost: Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or pinto beans to the ground beef mixture for extra fiber and flavor.
- Veggie Power-Up: Incorporate finely diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), corn kernels (frozen or canned), or even some sautéed zucchini into the meat mixture for added nutrients and texture.
- Smoky Flavor: A dash of smoked paprika or a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (finely chopped) can add a wonderful smoky depth to the ground beef.
- Sweet Potato Twist: For a unique flavor, consider adding a layer of thinly sliced cooked sweet potatoes under the meat mixture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch Baking Dish: Essential for baking the pie.
- Large Mixing Bowl: For preparing the cornbread batter.
- Large Skillet: For browning the ground beef.
- Spatula or Spoon: For mixing and stirring.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Oven Mitts: For safely handling hot dishes.
Craving More Comfort Food?
If you loved this Tamale Pie, you’ll surely enjoy these other comforting and easy recipes:
- Cornbread Taco Bake
- Bisquick Taco Casserole
- Cheesy Beefy Cornbread Casserole
- Mexican Cornbread
- Easy Cornbread Chicken Casserole
- Taco Bake
- Crock Pot Birria Tacos
- Arroz Con Pollo
- Mexican Lasagna
- Crock Pot Refried Beans
- White Chicken Enchiladas
- Cornbread Waffles with Chili & Fixins
- Cornbread Salad
- Taco Bell Mexican Pizza
- Taco Bell Enchiritos
- Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burritos
Tamale Pie
A comforting and filling casserole pie dinner recipe featuring a cornbread base with seasoned ground beef and taco toppings.
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Pin Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 8.5 ounce box Jiffy cornbread mix
- 14.75 ounce can creamed corn
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small sweet onion finely diced
- 1 ounce packet taco seasoning
- ¾ cup water
- 2 cups shredded Colby jack cheese
- dried parsley for garnish (optional)
- your favorite taco toppings for serving (sour cream, diced tomatoes, pico de gallo, guacamole, etc.)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- In a large bowl, stir together the cornbread mix, creamed corn, sour cream, and egg until well combined with no dry patches.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth it out. Bake for 15-20 minutes until done and bounces back to the touch.
- While the cornbread is baking, make the meat mixture. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef with the diced onion. Break up the meat into crumbles and cook until there is no pink left, 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the taco seasoning and water and stir to combine. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until most of the liquid is cooked out.
- Once the cornbread is done, top with the meat mixture.
- Add the shredded cheese on top. Bake for an additional 10 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Add a sprinkling of dried parsley for garnish if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite taco toppings.
Notes
- Please refer to my FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions) and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions.
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Nutrition
Calories: 658kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 39g | Sodium: 1230mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 15g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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