Tamale Pie

Imagine coming home to the aroma of a hearty and comforting Tamale Pie wafting through your kitchen. This one-pot wonder is a beautiful fusion of flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of Mexican cuisine while keeping things simple and budget-friendly.

The star of this dish is a flavor-packed filling that combines seasoned ground beef, onions, bell peppers, corn, and black beans, all simmered in a rich and spicy tomato sauce. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.

But what really sets this Tamale Pie apart is the cornbread topping – a golden, slightly sweet crust that’s baked to perfection, creating a delightful contrast to the savory filling below.

Let’s talk about the key to a perfect cornbread topping. It’s all about striking a balance between moisture and density. You want it to be moist and tender on the inside, but with a slightly crispy exterior that holds up to the hearty filling beneath.

With a dish as versatile as Tamale Pie, you can easily customize it to your liking. Whether you prefer a vegetarian twist, a milder spice level, or a completely gluten-free version, there’s a Tamale Pie recipe out there for everyone.

Tip: Prepare your Tamale Pie ahead of time and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. This dish is perfect for meal planning and is even more delicious the next day!

One of my favorite things about this Tamale Pie is how it brings people together around the dinner table. It’s a meal that truly warms the heart and soul, making it perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply a cozy weeknight dinner.

So why not give this Tamale Pie a try and experience the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine in the comfort of your own home? This easy-to-make, one-pot wonder is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

Buen provecho!

One-Pot Tamale Pie

Course: Main CourseCuisine: Mexican

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Experience the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine with this easy-to-make, one-pot Tamale Pie.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 bell pepper, chopped

• 1 cup corn kernels

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 package (8.5 oz) cornbread mix

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• Spices: salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder

Directions

• In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain the excess fat and set the beef aside.
• In the same skillet, sauté the onion and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Add the corn, black beans, tomato sauce, and spices to the skillet. Stir to combine, then add the cooked ground beef back to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes.
• While the mixture simmers, prepare the cornbread mix according to the package instructions.
• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Pour the cornbread batter evenly over the beef mixture in the skillet.
• Bake the tamale pie for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden and cooked through.
• Remove the skillet from the oven, sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top, and let it melt before serving.

Notes

• Feel free to customize the spices and vegetables to your liking.
• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This comforting One-Pot Tamale Pie pairs exceptionally well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a light, refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pie. A side of Spanish rice or cilantro-lime rice makes for a delicious accompaniment, while a bowl of guacamole and tortilla chips adds a delightful crunch to the meal.

For a more substantial side, consider serving refried beans or grilled vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers. To round out the meal, offer a fruit salsa made from mango or pineapple for a burst of sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the tamale pie.