Tamale Pie Recipe

Enjoy all the bold flavors of traditional tamales in an easy-to-make casserole with this Tamale Pie recipe. With a savory ground beef filling, a cheesy layer, and a golden corn muffin topping, this dish delivers comfort and convenience in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easier than Traditional Tamales: No need for corn husks or hours of steaming—this pie version simplifies the process while keeping the authentic flavors.
• One-Pan Convenience: Everything bakes in a single dish, making cleanup effortless.
• Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences or spice levels.
• Family-Friendly: A perfect meal for weeknight dinners that both kids and adults will love.

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• ½ white onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup red enchilada sauce
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
• ½ cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 box corn muffin mix
• 1 egg
• ½ cup whole kernel corn
• ¾ cup low-fat Greek yogurt

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Filling

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
5. Stir in the red enchilada sauce, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for 2 minutes. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn Muffin Batter

1. In a blender, combine the egg, whole kernel corn, and Greek yogurt.
2. Blend until just combined—blend longer for a smoother texture or pulse a few times for a chunkier consistency.
3. In a medium bowl, mix the blended ingredients with the corn muffin mix until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Tamale Pie

1. In a greased baking dish, spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the bottom.
2. Sprinkle half of the Monterey Jack and half of the Cheddar cheese over the meat.
3. Pour the corn muffin batter over the cheese and spread it evenly.
4. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free corn muffin mix.
• Topping Ideas: Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for added freshness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the entire dish or individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the tamale pie in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Bake when ready to serve.

2. What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

You can substitute sour cream or buttermilk for a similar texture and tangy flavor.

3. Can I use homemade corn muffin batter?

Absolutely! If you prefer to make your own, mix cornmeal, flour, baking powder, milk, and eggs to create a homemade batter.

4. How can I make this dish lower in fat?

Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and opt for reduced-fat cheese.

5. Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, diced bell peppers, black beans, or zucchini make great additions to the beef mixture.

6. Can I use green enchilada sauce instead of red?

Yes! Green enchilada sauce will give the dish a slightly tangier and milder flavor.

7. What size baking dish should I use?

An 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish works well, but you can also use a 9×13-inch pan for a thinner layer.

8. How do I prevent the cornbread topping from drying out?

Make sure not to overbake, and consider brushing melted butter over the top when it comes out of the oven.

9. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Pepper Jack, Colby, or Mexican blend cheeses all work well.

10. How do I make individual portions?

Divide the mixture into ramekins or a muffin tin for single-serving tamale pies.

Conclusion

This Tamale Pie brings all the comforting flavors of tamales into an easy-to-make casserole. With layers of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a fluffy corn muffin topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious twist on a classic favorite!

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