Hot Tamale Pie
Hot Tamale Pie is a spicy, comforting casserole layered with seasoned beef and cornbread.It captures the bold flavors of traditional tamales in a simple baked dish.Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or make-ahead meals.Warm, filling, and full of Southwestern flair in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Meat Filling:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans or kidney beans, drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend (optional)
For the Cornbread Topping:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup melted butter or oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in tomatoes, beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle cheese on top if using.
- In a bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, milk, egg, and melted butter until just combined.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the cornbread topping is golden and cooked through.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Add jalapeños for extra heat.
- Use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter option.
- Swap black beans for pinto beans for a more traditional tamale flavour.
- Add olives or green chiles for depth.
- Let the casserole rest before cutting—it firms up as it cools.