Print

Texas Tamale Pie Casserole: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Southern Classic

Print Recipe

A hearty, comforting Tex-Mex classic, this Texas Tamale Pie Casserole brings together seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and a golden cornbread topping in one irresistible dish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing meal packed with bold Southwestern flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Filling:

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles

  • 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce

  • 1 cup frozen or canned corn, drained

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For the Cornbread Topping:

  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

  • 1 cup whole milk or buttermilk

  • 1 large egg

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

  • Add the chopped onion and garlic to the beef, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

  • Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chiles, tomato sauce, corn, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 10 minutes to blend flavors.

  • Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese.

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

  • In another bowl, mix milk, egg, and melted butter. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring just until blended.

  • Spread the meat mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining shredded cheese.

  • Pour the cornbread batter over the filling, spreading evenly to the edges.

  • Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the cornbread is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  • Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For extra spice, add chopped jalapeños or use hot diced tomatoes with green chiles.

  • Swap the beef for ground turkey, shredded chicken, or black beans for a different variation.

  • Make it ahead and refrigerate before baking. Great for meal prep or gatherings.

  • Serve with sour cream, avocado, and fresh cilantro for garnish.

Find it online: https://cookingworthy.com/texas-tamale-pie-casserole-a-bold-flavor-packed-southern-classic/