Irresistible Tamale Pie Recipe for Cozy Evenings

There’s something magical about a warm, bubbling tamale pie that makes your taste buds do a little happy dance. Imagine the savory aroma of seasoned ground beef mingling with zesty tomatoes, all wrapped in a fluffy cornmeal topping that’s golden and slightly crispy on top. It’s like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening, promising comfort and satisfaction with every bite.

This delightful dish has been the star of many family gatherings at my house. I can still hear the laughter around the dinner table as everyone eagerly digs in, fighting over the last slice like it’s the final piece of cake at a birthday party. Tamale pie is perfect for game nights, potlucks, or even just a Tuesday when you need to spice up your life!

I remember one time when I made tamale pie for my friends during a movie marathon night. They couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was, and they all left with full bellies and smiles on their faces.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop it finely for even cooking.

• Bell Peppers: Choose red or green for extra color and crunch.

• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes for added texture; they bring moisture to the dish.

• Spices: Chili powder and cumin are key; they create that authentic tamale flavor.

• Cornmeal: Use yellow cornmeal for the best texture and flavor in your topping.

• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese melts beautifully on top; use sharp cheddar for extra flavor.

• Sour Cream (optional): A dollop on top balances out the spiciness perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onion and bell peppers into small pieces. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you gather everything else.

Cook the Meat Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with chopped onions until cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary and add bell peppers.

Add Flavorful Components: Stir in canned tomatoes along with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes until everything is well combined and aromatic.

Prepare Cornmeal Topping: In another bowl, mix cornmeal with water according to package instructions until it forms a smooth batter. You want it thick but pourable.

Assemble Your Tamale Pie: Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish then pour cornmeal batter over it. Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake to Perfection!: Place your assembled tamale pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Enjoy your kitchen’s inviting aromas!

Now you’ve created an amazing tamale pie that will have everyone asking for seconds! Serve hot with sour cream or fresh cilantro if desired.

In this delightful journey of creating tamale pie, not only did you whip up something tasty but also created memorable moments at your dinner table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meat in a skillet while preheating the oven. Then, prepare the cornbread topping while the meat simmers for maximum flavor and efficiency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add black beans for extra fiber. Spice things up with jalapeños or cheese on top for an irresistible kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it stays moist and tasty.

Sharing this tamale pie recipe reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and everyone eagerly savored each bite. Those moments are priceless!

FAQ

Can I make this tamale pie recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground meat with lentils or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option.

What can I serve with tamale pie?

Pair it with a fresh salad or guacamole to balance flavors and textures beautifully.

How long does leftover tamale pie last?

Leftover tamale pie lasts up to three days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

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Tamale Pie

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Tamale Pie is the ultimate comfort food, featuring a savory blend of seasoned ground beef, zesty tomatoes, and a fluffy cornmeal topping that bakes to golden perfection. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, game nights, or any occasion that calls for hearty satisfaction. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, Tamale Pie not only delights the palate but also creates cherished memories around the dinner table.

• Author: Ethan Carter
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Sour cream (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with chopped onion until cooked through. Drain excess fat and add diced bell pepper.
3. Stir in canned tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. In a bowl, mix cornmeal with water according to package instructions until smooth but thick.
5. Spread the meat mixture in a baking dish and pour the cornmeal batter on top. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg