Easy Tamale Casserole
This comforting Easy Tamale Casserole combines lean ground beef, fresh veggies, and a delicious cornbread topping, making it a protein-packed and healthy meal option ideal for weight loss and meal prep.
Ingredients
For the filling
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil Prevents sticking and adds a hint of richness.
- 1 medium Yellow onion Brings a sweet, aromatic base.
- 1 medium Green bell pepper Adds crunch and a mild sweetness.
- 3 cloves Garlic Infuses flavor and warmth into the dish.
- 1 tsp Salt Enhances all the flavors seamlessly.
- 1 lb Ground beef (90/10) A lean protein source that keeps it hearty.
- 1 cup Tomato sauce Adds moisture and balance to the dish.
- 1 cup Corn Offers a touch of sweetness and texture contrast.
- 1 can Kidney beans or black beans Boost fiber and protein content.
- 1 tbsp Chili powder Introduces a vibrant spiciness.
- 1 tsp Ground cumin Adds earthiness and depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp Chipotle chili powder Brings smoky heat for extra flavor.
- 1 tsp Black pepper Rounds out all the spices with warmth.
For the topping
- 1 cup Sharp cheddar cheese Provides melty goodness atop the casserole.
- 1 box Jiffy Cornbread mix Delivers a tender, fluffy topping.
- 1 large Egg Binds the cornbread and adds richness.
- 1/2 cup Milk Ensures a moist cornbread texture.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper; sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Season with salt, then add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, about 7–8 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat if needed.
Cook/Assemble
- Stir in the tomato sauce, corn, beans, chili powder, cumin, chipotle chili powder, and black pepper. Mix until combined.
- Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- In a separate bowl, combine the Jiffy Cornbread mix, egg, and milk; stir until smooth.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the cornbread batter over the top, spreading it out gently.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and cooked through.
Serve
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Slice into squares and serve warm. The cheese should be bubbly and lightly browned.
- Garnish with your favorite toppings, like fresh herbs or avocado, for extra flavor.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of your favorite hot sauce to the beef mixture before baking. Use lean ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for easy meal preps.