Texas Tamale Pie is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together the warmth of Tex-Mex tradition with the comfort of a homemade casserole. I still remember the first time I enjoyed tamale pie at a friend’s potluck, and it quickly became a staple for any gathering or cozy family dinner. With its satisfying blend of seasoned ground beef, beans, and cornmeal topping, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or slow Sunday afternoons. Everyone loves it, and that’s what makes this recipe special—it’s a crowd-pleaser that evokes the comfort of home cooking.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Texas Tamale Pie is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly quick and budget-friendly. Using simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, it provides a fulfilling meal without breaking the bank. Moreover, it’s a one-pan dish, which means less cleanup—a major win in my book! Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish ensures that everyone leaves the table satisfied. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit picky eaters or dietary needs, making it perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
"Absolutely loved this tamale pie! The flavors are amazing, and it was a hit at our family gathering." — Happy Cook
The cooking process explained
Making Texas Tamale Pie is a straightforward and rewarding process, yielding a dish that layers rich flavors and textures. You’ll start by browning the beef and onions, allowing them to build a flavorful base for the dish. Meanwhile, the cornbread-like topping comes together effortlessly, making for a delightful contrast to the savory filling. Here’s how it all comes together, step-by-step.
What you’ll need
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
These ingredients combine to create a hearty filling and a delicious cornbread topping. Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or substitute veggies for a meatless version.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion until the beef is cooked through and the onion is soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cornmeal, milk, and egg, mixing until you have a smooth batter.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour half of the cornmeal mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Layer the beef mixture over the cornmeal, then pour the remaining cornmeal mixture on top.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and black olives over the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
To enjoy Texas Tamale Pie, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or some homemade guacamole. A dollop of sour cream can also elevate the dish, adding creaminess that perfectly balances the spices. As a fun twist, serve it with tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex party platter!
Storage and reheating tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare, given how delicious it is), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just ensure it’s securely wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Helpful cooking tips
- Ingredient Customization: Don’t hesitate to add different vegetables like bell peppers or corn for an extra kick!
- Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled a day in advance; just cover it tightly and pop it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your preferred spice level; you can even add jalapeños for an extra punch.
Creative twists
Try a variation by substituting the ground beef with shredded chicken, or for a vegetarian option, you might use lentils and additional veggies. You can also explore different cheeses, such as pepper jack, for a zesty flavor enhancement.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for Texas Tamale Pie?
Prep time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 30 to 35 minutes for baking.
Can I use other types of beans?
Absolutely! Black beans can easily be swapped for pinto beans or kidney beans based on your taste.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Is this recipe family-friendly?
Definitely! It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a great option for family dinners.
Enjoy creating this delicious Texas Tamale Pie that is sure to become a beloved dish in your home!
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Texas Tamale Pie
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and flavorful Tex-Mex casserole that blends seasoned ground beef, beans, and a delicious cornbread topping.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion until the beef is cooked through and the onion is soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cornmeal, milk, and egg, mixing until you have a smooth batter.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour half of the cornmeal mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Layer the beef mixture over the cornmeal, then pour the remaining cornmeal mixture on top.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and black olives over the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes
Customize by swapping ground beef for turkey or adding different vegetables like bell peppers. This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican