If you’re craving a delicious blend of flavors that pay homage to both traditional tamales and savory pies, look no further than the Texas Tamale Pie. This dish is a wonderful medley of zesty spices, satisfying cornbread, and savory beef that brings a taste of the Lone Star State right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup diced bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 15 oz can of corn, drained
- 15 oz can of black beans, rinsed and drained
- 15 oz can of diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 box cornbread mix (prepared according to box instructions)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish (9×13 inch)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
How to Make Texas Tamale Pie Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Break it into crumbles using a wooden spoon. Drain off any excess fat and return the beef to the skillet.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Add chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Corn and Beans
Stir in the can of drained corn and the can of rinsed and drained black beans. Allow everything to cook together for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Mix in the Spices
Add chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Toss everything well so that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Incorporate the Tomatoes
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with green chilies and give everything a good stir. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, soaking up all the delightful flavors.
Step 6: Prepare the Cornbread Topping
Prepare the cornbread mix in a separate bowl following the instructions on the box. This typically involves mixing the cornbread mix with an egg and some milk.
Step 7: Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 8: Add the Cornbread Layer
Pour the prepared cornbread batter over the beef mixture, using a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges of the baking dish.
Step 9: Bake the Tamale Pie
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
How to Serve Texas Tamale Pie
Once your Texas Tamale Pie is ready, let it cool for a few minutes. Slice into generous portions and serve warm. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added burst of freshness and color. This dish pairs beautifully with a light side salad or some fresh avocado slices.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the best tamale pie experience, ensure to drain the beef well before adding the vegetables. This keeps the base from becoming too greasy. If you want to add a bit more heat, consider incorporating jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the beef mixture. For a tangy twist, include a spoonful of lime juice just before serving.
Packed with Protein: Hearty Texas Tamale Pie
If you’re aiming for a high-protein diet, consider adding extra lean ground meat such as turkey or chicken to replace or supplement the beef. You could also add some cooked quinoa or lentils into the mixture for more protein and texture. Spicing it up with your favorite protein powders, finely blended, can be another cool tip! This version gives bodybuilding and health-focused enthusiasts plenty to love.
A Delightful Low-Carb Twist on Classic Tamale Pie
For those navigating a low-carb lifestyle, this recipe can be recrafted to align with your goals. Opt for almond or coconut flour-based cornbread mix alternatives and consider reducing or omitting the beans. Zucchini noodles or chia seeds could help provide texture without additional carbs. By adding a sprinkle of cheese or baking a cheese crust instead, your low-carb Texas Tamale Pie becomes both diet-friendly and incredibly tasty.
Storage Instructions
Leftover tamale pie can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply place slices in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions – they’ll last for up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
FAQs
- Can I freeze Texas Tamale Pie? Yes, this dish freezes well for up to two months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.
- What can I use instead of ground beef? Ground turkey or chicken makes a lighter alternative while still providing plenty of flavor.
- Is there a vegetarian version of Texas Tamale Pie? Absolutely! Use a meat substitute, such as crumbled tofu or tempeh, and skip the meat completely.
- Can I make this recipe spicy? Yes, add more chili powder or diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Final Thoughts: Your Turn to Perfect the Texas Tamale Pie
This Texas Tamale Pie recipe has all the makings of an irresistibly tasty and satisfying meal. Its vibrant flavors, hearty texture, and easy preparation make it an ideal choice for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Give it a try and let the heartiness of Texas brighten your dinner table. We love hearing about your culinary adventures—please share your version, leave a comment, and don’t forget to share the joy!
Texas Tamale Pie Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- chopped onion
- diced bell pepper
- garlic
- can of corn
- can of black beans
- can of diced tomatoes with green chilies
- chili powder
- cumin
- shredded cheddar cheese
- cornbread mix
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, then drain the excess fat.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Add corn and black beans and stir to combine, cooking for another couple of minutes.
- Mix in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, ensuring even distribution.
- Incorporate diced tomatoes with green chilies and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the cornbread mix as per box instructions in a separate bowl.
- Spread the beef mixture in a prepared baking dish and sprinkle with cheese.
- Pour cornbread batter over the beef, spreading to the edges evenly.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until cornbread is golden, 20-25 minutes.