Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Asma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Casserole, Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

All the amazing flavors of traditional tamales made easy in a Tamale Pie! This delicious, comforting casserole features a savory ground beef filling topped with cheesy, golden corn muffin batter. Perfect for a quick and hearty dinner the whole family will love!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup red enchilada sauce

For the Cornbread Topping:

  • 1 box corn muffin mix
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup whole kernel corn
  • 3/4 cup low-fat Greek yogurt

For the Cheese Layer:

  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, divided

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, and chili powder, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add the ground beef and cook until no pink remains.
  4. Stir in the enchilada sauce, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for 2 minutes. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cornbread Batter

  1. In a blender or food processor, blend together the egg, whole-kernel corn, and Greek yogurt. Blend until smooth for a creamy texture, or pulse a few times for a chunkier consistency.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the corn muffin mix with the blended wet ingredients. Stir until just combined, ensuring there are no dry bits left.

Step 3: Assemble the Tamale Pie

  1. In a greased baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly at the bottom.
  2. Sprinkle half of the Monterey Jack and half of the Cheddar cheese over the beef.
  3. Pour the cornbread batter evenly over the meat and cheese.
  4. Top with the remaining cheese for an extra cheesy finish.

Step 4: Bake & Serve

  1. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through, and the cheese is melted.
  2. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

Notes

  • Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef filling.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with black beans, lentils, or plant-based meat.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later.