This Easy Cheesy Tamale Pie is a comforting and satisfying meal that brings together the flavors of a classic tamale in an effortless casserole form. With a moist cornbread topping, flavorful ground beef filling, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this tamale pie is both delicious and easy to make.
Ingredients:
For the Cornbread Topping:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/4 cup milk
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
For Assembly:
- 1 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, grated
- Cilantro, chopped, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Cornbread Topping
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, sour cream, corn kernels, and milk until well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Season Beef: Add chili powder, salt, ground cumin, dried oregano, onion powder, and garlic powder to the cooked ground beef. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Enchilada Sauce: Pour the enchilada sauce into the skillet with the seasoned ground beef. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Layer Ingredients: Spread the ground beef mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pie dish. Sprinkle the grated Monterey Jack cheese over the beef mixture.
- Top with Cornbread: Spoon the cornbread batter over the cheese layer, spreading it out evenly to cover the filling.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
- Bake: Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the tamale pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Cook’s Tips:
- Customize Fillings: Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients such as beans, bell peppers, or diced tomatoes.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the filling and cornbread topping ahead of time and assemble the pie just before baking.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or black beans for a vegetarian option.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick of heat.
- Cheesy Variation: Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor.
This Easy Cheesy Tamale Pie offers all the comforting flavors of traditional tamales in a simple and convenient casserole form. With its moist cornbread topping, flavorful beef filling, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether enjoyed for dinner with the family or served at a casual gathering, this tamale pie is a delicious and satisfying meal option.
Indulge in the delicious flavors of this Easy Cheesy Tamale Pie, a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
