If you are craving something comforting, flavorful, and downright satisfying, this Texas Tamale Pie Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. Bursting with hearty ground beef, zesty tomatoes with green chilies, and a golden cornbread topping, this dish combines bold Tex-Mex flavors and a cozy, homestyle vibe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and cheesy goodness, making it a beloved recipe to share with family and friends anytime.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Texas Tamale Pie Casserole Recipe lies in its simple, accessible ingredients that come together to create a dish packed with texture and kick. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—juicy beef for richness, corn and olives for bursts of flavor, and the fluffy cornbread topping for that signature comforting crust.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that brings rich, savory flavor and satisfying protein.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth, brightening the beef’s flavor as it cooks.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a fragrant, aromatic punch that enhances the entire casserole.
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels: Provide pops of natural sweetness and texture contrast.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies: Brings a zesty, slightly spicy element essential to tamale pie.
- 1 can (4 oz) sliced black olives, drained: Adds a briny, savory twist that elevates flavor complexity.
- 1 package (8.5 oz) cornbread mix: The star of the topping that crisps to golden perfection.
- 1/2 cup milk: Moistens the cornbread batter for a tender crumb.
- 1 egg: Binds the cornbread batter so it sets beautifully over the filling.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: A melty, savory layer that brings rich creaminess.
- 1 tsp chili powder: For warmth and classic southwestern spice.
- 1/2 tsp cumin: Adds earthy undertones that deepen the flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to round out and balance every bite.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish): Offers a fresh, herbaceous finish when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Texas Tamale Pie Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
First things first, set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) so it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready for baking. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make serving easier later on.
Step 2: Brown the Beef with Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef alongside the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir frequently until the beef is fully browned and the onions turn translucent, releasing their natural sweetness. Once cooked, drain any excess fat for a lighter dish.
Step 3: Spice It Up and Add Veggies
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, stirring well to coat the beef and onion mixture in fragrant spices. Then add the frozen corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and sliced black olives. Let everything cook together for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully, then remove from heat.
Step 4: Whisk Up the Cornbread Batter
In a medium bowl, combine the cornbread mix with milk and egg. Stir until just combined—you want a smooth batter without overmixing to keep your topping light and tender.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
Spread the savory beef mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Next, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese all over the beef to create a melty, cheesy layer that will delight your taste buds.
Step 6: Add the Cornbread Topping
Pour the cornbread batter gently over the cheese layer, spreading it out evenly with a spatula so every bite has that perfect golden crust.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Pop your assembled casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cornbread topping turns a gorgeous golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Garnish
Allow your Texas Tamale Pie Casserole Recipe to cool for a few minutes before slicing—it helps everything set so you get perfect servings. If you like, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top for a burst of fresh flavor and lovely color.
How to Serve Texas Tamale Pie Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
This casserole shines even brighter with some simple garnishes. Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the warm spices. For extra creaminess, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of sliced jalapeños can up the excitement on your plate.
Side Dishes
Serve your Texas Tamale Pie Casserole Recipe alongside a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette for balance. Refried beans or Mexican rice also make fantastic partners, soaking up any extra sauce and making the meal even more filling and authentic.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to make this casserole party-ready? Spoon it into individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets for a charming, personalized touch. Layer with extra cheese on top before broiling briefly for a bubbly, golden finish that will surely impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making each bite as satisfying as the first day.
Freezing
You can freeze Texas Tamale Pie Casserole Recipe by wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or by placing portions in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months, so you always have a comforting meal ready for busy nights.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to retain that crispy cornbread topping. Microwave works in a pinch but might soften the crust slightly—still delicious though!
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great leaner alternatives and still deliver plenty of flavor with the spices and toppings.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or mix in cooked beans for protein, and your casserole will still be hearty and delicious.
What’s the best way to ensure the cornbread topping cooks evenly?
Spread the batter evenly across the cheese layer and avoid overfilling the dish. Using a toothpick to check doneness is key to prevent undercooked batter in the middle.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Definitely. You can cook the beef mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, just layer with cheese and cornbread batter as directed.
What wines or drinks pair well with this casserole?
Bold red wines like Zinfandel or a chilled beer complement the spicy, robust flavors wonderfully. For non-alcoholic options, try a sparkling limeade or iced tea with a squeeze of lemon.
Final Thoughts
This Texas Tamale Pie Casserole Recipe is a delightful way to bring warm, vibrant flavors to your table with minimal fuss. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both cozy and packed with southwestern spirit, give this recipe a try—you might just find your new go-to comfort food. Trust me, once you taste that perfect blend of spicy beef, melty cheese, and golden cornbread, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Print
Texas Tamale Pie Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 0h 45m
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
Texas Tamale Pie Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring a savory ground beef filling layered with cheese and topped with a moist cornbread crust. This comforting casserole combines classic southwestern spices like chili powder and cumin with ingredients such as diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, and black olives, baked to golden perfection. Ideal for a family dinner, it offers a delicious twist on traditional tamales in an easy-to-make casserole form.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (4 oz) sliced black olives, drained
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cornbread Topping
- 1 package (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Brown the meat until it is fully cooked and the onion becomes translucent. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish leaner.
- Season and Combine Ingredients: Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the cooked beef mixture. Add frozen corn kernels, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and sliced black olives. Cook together for about 5 more minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then remove from heat.
- Prepare Cornbread Batter: In a medium bowl, mix the cornbread mix, milk, and egg until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a light texture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer.
- Add Cornbread Topping: Pour the cornbread batter over the cheese layer, spreading it evenly to cover the filling completely.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread topping turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro if desired, then serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add jalapeños or increase the amount of chili powder.
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Use homemade cornbread batter if preferred, adjusting moisture to maintain consistency.
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
