Tamale pie is the ultimate comfort food—a perfect blend of savory ground beef, fire-roasted tomatoes, green chiles, and sweet corn, all topped with a golden layer of cornbread. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, looking for an easy meal prep option, or simply craving a hearty and satisfying dish, tamale pie delivers. With its bold flavors and simple preparation, it’s no wonder this casserole-style dish has become a favorite in homes across the country.

In this article, you’ll learn how to make the best-ever tamale pie using a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Plus, we’ll share tips, variations, and answers to common questions to help you perfect this classic recipe.

Why You’ll Love Tamale Pie

Tamale pie offers the best of both worlds: the rich, savory filling reminiscent of tamales and the ease of a one-dish meal. Here’s why it’s a crowd-pleaser:

• Easy to make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, anyone can prepare this dish.
• Packed with flavor: Spices like chili powder and cumin bring bold Mexican-inspired flavors to the table.
• Customizable: You can swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Great for leftovers: It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients for Tamale Pie

Here’s what you’ll need to create this hearty dish:

For the Filling

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, seeds and stem removed, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 2 teaspoons cumin (adjust to taste)
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 (4-ounce) can green Anaheim chiles, drained and chopped
• 1 (16-ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 (4-ounce) can sliced ripe olives
• 1/3 cup raisins
• 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (about 4 ounces)
• 1/3 cup water

For the Topping

• 1 (16-ounce) package prepared cornbread mix (such as Jiffy or Bob’s Red Mill)
• Water, egg, oil, or milk as needed to prepare the cornbread batter (refer to package instructions)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Brown the Beef, Onions, and Bell Pepper

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper. Sprinkle with salt, chili powder, and cumin.
• Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through.
• If there’s excess fat, drain it off.

3. Make the Filling

• To the skillet, add the fire-roasted tomatoes, green chiles, corn, olives, raisins, grated cheese, and water.
• Stir everything together and adjust the seasoning with more chili powder or cumin if needed.

4. Assemble the Casserole

• Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or nonstick cooking spray.
• Spoon the prepared filling evenly into the dish.

5. Prepare the Cornbread Batter

• In a large mixing bowl, prepare the cornbread batter according to the package instructions.
• Pour the batter over the filling, spreading it evenly to cover.

6. Bake the Tamale Pie

• Place the casserole in the preheated oven.
• Bake for 40 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Let the tamale pie cool for 5 minutes before serving.
• Slice into squares and serve warm.

Tips for the Best Tamale Pie

1. Use Lean Ground Beef

• Lean ground beef keeps the dish hearty without becoming greasy. If you’re using higher-fat beef, be sure to drain the excess fat.

2. Adjust the Spice Level

• For a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños, extra chili powder, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

3. Enhance the Topping

• Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese or sliced jalapeños over the cornbread batter before baking for added flavor and texture.

4. Make It Vegetarian

• Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles, black beans, or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and lentils.

5. Meal Prep and Reheat

• Tamale pie is a great make-ahead dish. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Tamale pie pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Salads: A fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette or a simple cucumber and tomato salad complements the rich flavors.
• Vegetables: Serve with sautéed zucchini, roasted sweet potatoes, or grilled corn on the cob.
• Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for extra flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420 kcal
Protein	28 g
Carbohydrates	35 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	5 g
Sodium	580 mg

FAQs About Tamale Pie

1. Can I make tamale pie ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the pie up to a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze tamale pie?

Absolutely. Freeze the fully baked dish, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

3. What’s the best substitute for green Anaheim chiles?

You can use diced mild green chiles, jalapeños (for extra heat), or roasted poblano peppers.

4. How can I make the cornbread topping fluffier?

Use full-fat milk or buttermilk in the cornbread mix and let the batter sit for 5 minutes before pouring it over the filling.

5. What other proteins can I use?

Ground turkey, chicken, or pork work well as substitutes for beef.

6. Can I make tamale pie gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free cornbread mix. Ensure the other ingredients, like spices and canned items, are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion: Try Tamale Pie for Dinner Tonight!

Tamale pie is a dish that brings warmth, flavor, and comfort to your table. With its savory filling and golden cornbread topping, it’s the perfect blend of texture and taste. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers every time.

Why not try making tamale pie tonight? You’ll discover just how easy it is to create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Your family and friends will thank you!

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