Name: Delicious Texas Tamale Pie Casserole in 45 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended); 1 medium onion, diced; 2-3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 cup tomato sauce or 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup cornmeal (certified gluten-free if needed); 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp sugar; 1/4 cup (4 tbsp) butter, melted; 1 cup milk; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend)

Texas Tamale Pie Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings the bold flavors of the Southwest right to your dinner table. This dish is a delightful combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy cornbread, and tangy tomato sauce, making it a perfect choice for family meals and gatherings. With its golden, cheesy crust and hearty filling, this casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience designed to satisfy your cravings and warm your heart. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!

Why You’ll Love This Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

This Texas Tamale Pie Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Here are a few reasons why it should be on your dinner rotation:

It’s quick to make, taking only 45 minutes from start to finish.
This dish is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
It’s a one-pot meal, making clean-up a breeze.
The recipe can easily be adjusted for spicy or mild preferences.
You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the beef with beans.
It’s perfect for meal prep and can be stored for later meals.

This Easy Texas Tamale Casserole fits perfectly into a busy lifestyle, allowing for delicious meals without the fuss. Plus, it’s a great introduction to what is Tamale Pie Casserole?

Ingredients for Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

Gather these items:

1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
1 medium onion, diced
2-3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup tomato sauce or 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup cornmeal (certified gluten-free if needed)
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
1/4 cup (4 tbsp) butter, melted
1 cup milk
2 large eggs, beaten
1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend)

How to Make Texas Tamale Pie Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Sauté the diced onions and minced garlic in a pan over medium heat until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour in tomato sauce or diced tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for several minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Add the melted butter, milk, and beaten eggs, stirring just until combined. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable.
Step 3: Grease a casserole dish and spread the beef filling evenly on the bottom. Pour the cornbread batter over the beef, spreading it to cover every corner. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top for a golden, melty finish.
Step 4: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cornbread comes out clean. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before slicing to let the layers set.

Pro Tips for the Best Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder according to your taste preferences.
Use your favorite cheese blend for added flavor; pepper jack adds a nice kick!
This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked when ready to serve, making it perfect for gatherings.
For a Gluten-free Tamale Pie Casserole, simply ensure your cornmeal is certified gluten-free.

Best Ways to Serve Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

This casserole is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways:

Pair it with a side of fresh guacamole and tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex experience.
Top each slice with sour cream, diced onions, or jalapeños for added flavor.
Serve alongside a simple salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.

How to Store and Reheat Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

To store leftovers, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place individual slices in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This makes it a great option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Texas Tamale Pie Casserole?

The secret lies in using a quality ground beef and allowing the flavors to meld during simmering. For an authentic taste, don’t skip the chili powder and cumin!

Can I make Texas Tamale Pie Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve for a hot and comforting meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Texas Tamale Pie Casserole?

Be careful not to overmix the cornbread batter, as this can lead to a dense texture. Also, ensure the meat mixture is well-seasoned; taste as you go!

Creative Variations of Texas Tamale Pie Casserole You Can Try

Feel free to explore different options to make this dish your own:

For a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with black beans and corn.
Make a Spicy Tamale Pie Casserole by adding chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture.
For a lighter version, use ground turkey instead of beef.
Experiment with different cheese blends to find your favorite flavor combination.

Delicious Texas Tamale Pie Casserole in 45 Minutes - Texas Tamale Pie Casserole - main visual representation

For more tips on making the perfect casserole, check out our casserole guide.

Delicious Texas Tamale Pie Casserole in 45 Minutes - Texas Tamale Pie Casserole - additional detail

To learn more about the history of tamales, visit this article.

Finally, for a deeper dive into Tex-Mex cuisine, check out this resource.