Cornbread Tamale Pie – Looking for a satisfying meal that will please your taste buds and warm your heart? Look no further than this mouthwatering Cornbread Tamale Pie recipe! Bursting with savory flavors, this comforting dish combines the best of both worlds: the rich, meaty goodness of a taco filling topped with a golden, cheesy cornbread crust. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, this recipe is sure to become an instant hit. Get ready to indulge in a delightful culinary adventure that will leave you craving for more!
Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you’re gathered around the table with your loved ones. The aroma of spices and simmering meat fills the air, heightening your anticipation. As you serve the Cornbread Tamale Pie, the room is filled with excitement. This dish has become a staple in your household, loved by all, thanks to its unique combination of flavors and the memories it evokes.
You remember the first time you made this recipe for your husband or little family. The moment they took their first bite, their faces lit up with delight. It was an instant success! From that day on, this flavorful pie has made its way onto your regular menu rotation, bringing joy and comfort to every occasion. Whether it’s a special gathering with friends or a simple weeknight dinner, the Cornbread Tamale Pie never fails to impress and satisfy.
Why This Cornbread Tamale Pie Will Steal Your Heart?
- A Flavorful Fusion: This recipe combines the beloved flavors of traditional tamales and hearty beef tacos, resulting in a delightful and unique taste experience.
- Easy and Versatile: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for all levels of cooking expertise. Plus, you can customize the toppings to suit your preferences, adding a personal touch to every bite.
- Hearty and Filling: The combination of ground beef, black beans, corn, and spices creates a satisfying and substantial filling that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.
- Golden and Cheesy Crust: The cornbread topping, mixed with cheddar cheese, bakes into a golden and crispy layer that perfectly complements the savory filling, adding a delightful texture contrast.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a family-friendly meal, this Cornbread Tamale Pie is sure to impress everyone around the table. It’s a guaranteed hit!
Ingredients:
FOR THE FILLING:
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 450 grams (1 lb.) ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 can (280 grams/10 oz.) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (425 grams/15 oz.) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- Salt and pepper to taste
FOR THE TOPPING:
- 240 grams (8.5 oz.) box corn muffin mix (such as Jiffy)
- Eggs and milk, as directed on the box
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: Assorted toppings such as sour cream, avocado, and pico de gallo
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray.
For the filling, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add ground beef and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 4-5 minutes until browned, then add onion and cook for another 4 minutes or until the onion has softened and the meat is cooked through. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Stir in the taco seasoning, enchilada sauce, black beans, and corn. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Pour the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
For the topping, place the corn muffin mix in a bowl. Add eggs and milk according to the package directions. Mix until a batter forms, then add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until just combined. Spread the batter over the layer of meat.
Bake for 40-45 minutes until the topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cornbread layer comes out with just a few crumbs attached. If the casserole is browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil for the remaining bake time.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut into slices and serve with your choice of toppings, such as creamy sour cream, luscious avocado, and tangy pico de gallo. Get ready to savor the delightful flavors of this Cornbread Tamale Pie!
Notes:
- If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
- For a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat substitute or extra beans.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
In conclusion, the Cornbread Tamale Pie is a culinary masterpiece that brings together the flavors of tamales and beef tacos in a comforting and delicious way. Its hearty filling, consisting of savory ground beef, black beans, and corn, is perfectly complemented by a golden, cheesy cornbread topping. This recipe has become a beloved staple in countless households, captivating the hearts and taste buds of families and friends alike.
With its simple preparation and customizable toppings, the Cornbread Tamale Pie is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a cozy and satisfying meal, this recipe never fails to impress. The flavors, textures, and aromas that emanate from the oven as this pie bakes are simply irresistible.
So why not bring a touch of culinary magic to your own kitchen? Gather your loved ones, savor the enticing aromas, and indulge in the joyous experience of sharing a scrumptious Cornbread Tamale Pie. Let the harmonious blend of flavors and the memories created around this dish bring warmth and happiness to your home. It’s time to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing and your heart full. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free cornbread mix or make your own gluten-free cornbread batter from scratch using gluten-free flour alternatives. Just ensure that the other ingredients you use, such as the taco seasoning and enchilada sauce, are also gluten-free.
Can I freeze the Cornbread Tamale Pie?
Absolutely! This recipe is freezer-friendly. After baking and cooling, you can wrap individual portions tightly with plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you prefer an alternative to ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute. Each option will bring its unique flavor profile to the dish, so feel free to experiment with your favorite protein.
Can I add additional vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! This recipe serves as a great base for adding more veggies to your liking. Consider incorporating bell peppers, zucchini, or even diced tomatoes to amp up the nutritional value and add extra color to the dish.
Cornbread Tamale Pie
Ingredients
FOR THE FILLING:
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 450 grams 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 can 280 grams/10 oz. red enchilada sauce
- 1 can 425 grams/15 oz. black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- Salt and pepper to taste
FOR THE TOPPING:
- 240 grams 8.5 oz. box corn muffin mix (such as Jiffy)
- Eggs and milk as directed on the box
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: Assorted toppings such as sour cream avocado, and pico de gallo
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray.
- For the filling, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add ground beef and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 4-5 minutes until browned, then add onion and cook for another 4 minutes or until the onion has softened and the meat is cooked through. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, enchilada sauce, black beans, and corn. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Pour the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
- For the topping, place the corn muffin mix in a bowl. Add eggs and milk according to the package directions. Mix until a batter forms, then add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until just combined. Spread the batter over the layer of meat.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until the topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cornbread layer comes out with just a few crumbs attached. If the casserole is browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil for the remaining bake time.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut into slices and serve with your choice of toppings, such as creamy sour cream, luscious avocado, and tangy pico de gallo. Get ready to savor the delightful flavors of this Cornbread Tamale Pie!
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