Tamale pie is a warm, comforting dish inspired by traditional Mexican tamales. Instead of individual corn husks, it features all the delicious tamale flavors layered in a baking dish—making it much quicker and easier to prepare.
With a rich, seasoned filling and a golden cornbread topping, this recipe is a favorite in Southwestern and Tex-Mex cuisine. It delivers bold flavors, a blend of textures, and is perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. Whether you’re craving something cozy or need a dish for your next potluck, tamale pie hits the spot.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
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1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 bell pepper, diced
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1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
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1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
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1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
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1 cup frozen corn (optional)
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1 tablespoon chili powder
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1 teaspoon cumin
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Cornbread Topping:
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1 cup yellow cornmeal
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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1 cup milk (or plant-based alternative)
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2 large eggs
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¼ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
Substitutions:
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Meat: Use plant-based ground meat or lentils for a vegetarian version.
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Cheese: Try dairy-free shredded cheese for a vegan adaptation.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in the cornbread topping.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Make the Filling:
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
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Add diced onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened (about 4–5 minutes).
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Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
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Mix in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, green chilies, corn, and all spices.
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Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Stir in shredded cheese.
3. Pour into Baking Dish:
Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
4. Make the Cornbread Topping:
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In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
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In a separate bowl, combine milk, eggs, and oil.
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Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir just until combined.
5. Top & Bake:
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Spoon the cornbread batter over the beef mixture and spread evenly.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the topping is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool & Serve:
Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Avoid Overmixing the Cornbread: To keep the topping light and fluffy, mix the batter just until combined.
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Use a Cast Iron Skillet: You can cook the filling and bake the pie in the same skillet for fewer dishes and better heat distribution.
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Cheese Boost: Add a layer of cheese on top of the meat mixture before adding the cornbread batter for an extra gooey surprise.
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Spice Control: Adjust chili powder or add jalapeños for your desired heat level.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian: Swap ground meat for black beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and ensure all canned goods are GF-certified.
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Low-Carb: Try a cauliflower or almond flour-based topping instead of cornbread.
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Tex-Mex Twist: Add enchilada sauce to the meat mixture for deeper flavor.
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Breakfast Version: Replace the beef with chorizo and top with eggs before baking.
Serving Suggestions
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Garnish: Top with chopped cilantro, avocado slices, sour cream, or fresh jalapeños.
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Sides: Serve with a side of black beans, Mexican rice, or a crisp green salad.
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Drinks: Pair with a cold cerveza, iced hibiscus tea, or a tangy margarita.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1/8 of dish)
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Calories: ~430 kcal
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Protein: 21g
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Carbohydrates: 35g
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Fats: 23g
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Fiber: 4g
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Sugars: 6g
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Sodium: 650mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make tamale pie ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and assemble the dish, then refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze tamale pie?
Absolutely. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why is my cornbread topping dry or crumbly?
Overbaking or overmixing the batter can lead to dryness. Keep an eye on the oven and don’t overwork the batter.
What pan size works best?
A standard 9×13-inch pan works great, but you can also use a deep 10-inch skillet for a rustic touch.
Closing Thoughts
Tamale pie is a true comfort food that brings together spicy, savory, and sweet elements in one irresistible dish. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. Give it a try and make it your own with your favorite flavors.
