Tamale Pie is a deliciously hearty dish that brings together the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and green chilies, topped with a soft and creamy cornmeal crust. This dish takes inspiration from traditional tamales, but it’s much easier to make, delivering all the warmth and richness of Southwestern cuisine in a convenient casserole form. With its melty cheddar cheese topping and fresh cilantro garnish, Tamale Pie is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
A Fusion of Comfort and Spice
The beauty of Tamale Pie lies in its layers of flavor and texture. The beef and vegetable mixture, simmered with spices and tomatoes, is rich and savory, while the cornmeal topping adds a comforting, slightly sweet contrast. Finished with melted cheddar and a sprinkle of cilantro, this dish is an irresistible combination of flavors and a true crowd-pleaser.
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
- Serving: 6 people
- Equipment: Oven, large skillet, saucepan, baking dish
Recipe Title: Cheesy Tamale Pie with Ground Beef and Cornmeal Crust
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies, diced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking for the Tamale Pie.
- Cook the Beef and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Simmer the Filling: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, green chilies, chili powder, and cumin. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Cornmeal Topping: In a separate saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, then reduce the heat to low. Continue stirring frequently until the mixture thickens into a porridge-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
- Assemble the Tamale Pie: Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly in a baking dish. Pour the cornmeal mixture over the top, using a spatula to smooth it out into an even layer.
- Bake: Bake the Tamale Pie in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the pie is done, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this easy Southwestern-inspired dish.
A Satisfying One-Dish Meal
Tamale Pie is the perfect combination of comforting, savory flavors with a hint of spice, all wrapped in a delicious cornmeal crust. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend dish, this casserole is sure to satisfy. Each bite offers a taste of hearty beef, flavorful veggies, and cheesy goodness, making it a hit with family and friends alike!
