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Tamale Pie

A heart-healthy and creamy dish made with seasoned ground beef, green chiles, and a fluffy cornmeal topping, perfect for busy families.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Mexican
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Filling

  • 1 tbsp Vegetable oil for sautéing, adds richness.
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped provides a sweet and savory base flavor.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced enhances aroma and depth of flavor.
  • 1.5 pounds Ground beef lean protein source for heart health.
  • 1 tsp Ground cumin adds warmth and earthiness to the dish.
  • 1 tsp Chili powder delivers a subtle kick and color.
  • 1 tsp Kosher salt essential for flavor balancing.
  • 1 tsp Black pepper brings warmth and depth.
  • 1 can (4 oz) Diced green chiles introduce a mild heat and unique taste.
  • 1 can (10 oz) Enchilada sauce infuses a rich, zesty flavor profile.

For the Cornmeal Topping

  • 1 box Jiffy cornmeal muffin mix creates a delightful, fluffy topping.
  • 1 large Egg binds ingredients and enriches texture.
  • ½ cup Sour cream adds creaminess and tang.
  • ½ can (about ¾ cup) Creamed corn sweetens and moistens the mix.
  • 1 tbsp Honey balances flavors with a hint of sweetness.

For Serving

  • 2 cups Shredded cheese melty topping that makes it irresistible.
  • to taste Fresh cilantro, chopped brightens the dish with freshness.
  • to taste Sour cream optional serving for an extra creamy touch.
  • to taste Sliced avocado enhances flavor while providing healthy fats.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large skillet, heat ¼ cup of vegetable oil over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  • Brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).

Cook/Assemble

  • Season the beef mixture with ground cumin, chili powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
  • Incorporate the diced green chiles and enchilada sauce.
  • Mix together the cornmeal muffin mix, egg, sour cream, and creamed corn in a separate bowl.
  • Spread the beef mixture evenly in a baking dish, then pour the cornmeal mixture on top, smoothing it out.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Serve

  • Remove the Tamale Pie from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
  • Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, then return it to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes until melted.
  • Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, and serve warm.

Notes

For best results, monitor the baking time closely and let the pie cool before slicing to maintain structure. Enjoy with toppings such as salsa or guacamole.
Keyword Comfort Food, Ground Beef, Healthy Dinner, Meal Prep, Tamale Pie