Description
Texas Tamale Pie is a hearty and flavorful casserole combining seasoned ground beef, black beans, and diced tomatoes with a creamy cornmeal topping, baked to a golden perfection. This comforting dish blends classic Tex-Mex spices with a satisfyingly cheesy crust, perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Mixture
- 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
Cornmeal Topping
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to prepare for baking the tamale pie.
- Cook Ground Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together for 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain any excess fat to reduce grease.
- Combine Beef Mixture: Add the drained black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Prepare Cornmeal Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, milk, and egg until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps, forming the base and topping batter.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour half of the cornmeal mixture into the dish and spread evenly to form the bottom layer. Layer the beef mixture over this base, then pour the remaining cornmeal mixture on top to cover evenly.
- Add Cheese and Olives: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and sliced black olives (if using) evenly over the top of the cornmeal layer.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cornmeal topping is golden brown and set, and the cheese has melted.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove from the oven and allow the tamale pie to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness just before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a mix of sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini.
- Add sliced jalapeños on top for extra heat if desired.
- Serve alongside a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess and balance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
