Irresistible Texas Tamale Pie Casserole Recipe to Savor

There’s something magical about the aroma of Texas Tamale Pie Casserole wafting through the air, isn’t there? Picture this: a warm, cheesy blanket of cornbread enveloping a hearty layer of spiced beef and zesty beans, all coming together in a delightful dance of flavors. It’s like a fiesta in your mouth where every bite is a celebration!

Now, let me take you back to that unforgettable family gathering where I first made this dish. Picture my grandma, who could out-cook anyone with her secret recipes. As she passed on her tamale pie wisdom, I remember the laughter, the stories, and how our hearts (and bellies) felt so full. This casserole is perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or anytime you want to impress your friends with minimal effort but maximum flavor.

I vividly recall the first time I served this casserole; my cousin declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which, quite frankly, was a high compliment coming from him!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a flavorful base without too much grease.

• Canned Black Beans: Rinse them well to eliminate excess sodium and enhance their flavor.

• Sweet Corn: Fresh or frozen works beautifully here; it adds a sweet crunch to each bite.

• Onion: A medium onion will add sweetness; sauté until translucent for best results.

• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar gives that ooey-gooey texture we all love.

• Cornmeal: Essential for the cornbread topping; use medium ground cornmeal for best texture.

• Spices (Chili Powder & Cumin): These spices elevate the flavor profile; adjust according to your heat preference.

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while adding depth to the filling.

• Sour Cream (optional): A dollop on top adds creaminess and balances the spices perfectly.

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

How to Make Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

Prepare Your Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Sauté Vegetables and Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned.

Add Beans and Spices: Stir in black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Allow everything to simmer together for about 5 minutes so those flavors can mingle happily.

Mix Cornbread Topping: In a separate bowl, combine cornmeal with chicken broth and cheese until smooth. This mixture should resemble thick pancake batter—yum!

Assemble Your Casserole: Pour the beef mixture into your baking dish evenly. Gently spread the cornbread topping over it using a spatula; don’t worry about perfection!

Bake Until Golden Brown: Place the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and deliciously crusty.

And voilà! Your Texas Tamale Pie Casserole is ready to be devoured! Just let it cool slightly before serving—if you can resist that long!

This recipe not only fills your belly but also warms your heart with every spoonful! Enjoy sharing this culinary delight with loved ones; it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your home just like it did in mine!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meat and onions first, then layer the casserole with your favorite toppings while the filling simmers. This ensures everything cooks evenly and flavors meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add black beans for extra protein. Top it off with jalapeños or cheese for a spicy twist that’ll please everyone at dinner.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Texas Tamale Pie Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.

The first time I made Texas Tamale Pie Casserole, my friends devoured it in minutes! Their compliments kept me smiling all night long, reminding me why I love cooking for others.

FAQ

Can I make Texas Tamale Pie Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and bake when ready to serve.

What can I substitute if I don’t have cornmeal?

Try using polenta or finely ground corn flour as alternatives.

How do I know when my casserole is done?

Ensure it’s bubbly around the edges and the top is golden brown before serving.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8

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Description

Texas Tamale Pie Casserole is a flavorful and comforting dish that brings together a cheesy cornbread topping with a savory filling of spiced ground beef, black beans, and sweet corn. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. With its vibrant layers and enticing aroma, it’s sure to impress your guests and leave them coming back for more.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed
• 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup medium ground cornmeal
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• Optional: sour cream for serving

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
3. Stir in black beans, sweet corn, chili powder, cumin, and salt; let simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cornmeal with chicken broth and cheese until smooth.
5. Pour the beef mixture into the baking dish, then spread the cornbread topping evenly over it.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 180g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 55mg