Beef Tamale Casserole – Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food with our Beef Tamale Casserole recipe. This mouthwatering dish combines the flavors of tender ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, creamy cornbread, and gooey cheddar cheese. It’s a Tex-Mex delight that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or hosting a gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, grab your apron and get ready to dive into a plateful of pure comfort and flavor!
In our little family, the Beef Tamale Casserole has become an absolute favorite. I still remember the first time I made it for my husband—his eyes widened with anticipation as the aroma of sizzling beef filled our kitchen. The moment he took his first bite, he was hooked. It has since become a staple dish that we turn to whenever we crave a hearty and satisfying meal. The combination of savory beef, tangy salsa, and cheesy goodness creates a symphony of flavors that we can’t resist. Each time I serve this casserole, it brings smiles to our faces and creates cherished memories around the dinner table.
Why This Recipe Will Win You Over?
- Unleash your inner chef with this simple yet impressive dish that will leave your guests asking for seconds.
- Indulge in the perfect blend of flavors, combining seasoned ground beef, creamy cornbread, and a rich enchilada sauce.
- The cheesy topping adds a delightful gooeyness that will have you reaching for more.
- It’s a versatile recipe that allows for customization with your favorite taco toppings, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone.
- The ease of preparation and minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy with your loved ones.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (8.5 oz.) cornbread mix
- 1 can (14.75 oz.) creamed corn
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 package (1 oz.) taco seasoning
- ⅔ cup salsa
- 1 can (10 oz.) enchilada sauce
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Grease a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.
In a large bowl, combine the cornbread mix, creamed corn, eggs, milk, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until well combined.
Pour the cornbread mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the cornbread is baking, cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the taco seasoning packet and salsa to the skillet, stirring until the beef is well-coated and the flavors meld together. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Toss the cooked beef in the enchilada sauce until it’s evenly coated.
Pour the beef mixture over the baked cornbread in the baking dish and top it with the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes, then cut it into 6 or 8 squares.
Serve the Beef Tamale Casserole with your favorite taco toppings, such as sour cream, diced tomatoes, guacamole, or fresh cilantro.
Notes:
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients such as sliced black olives, chopped jalapeños, or diced bell peppers.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, use hot salsa or add some crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
In conclusion, the Beef Tamale Casserole is an absolute winner when it comes to comfort food with a Tex-Mex twist. Its combination of flavors, from the seasoned ground beef to the creamy cornbread and gooey cheddar cheese, creates a culinary experience that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this casserole is sure to impress your guests with its delicious taste and satisfying heartiness.
With its simple preparation and customizable toppings, you can easily make it your own and cater to everyone’s preferences. The memories created around the dinner table while enjoying this dish will be cherished for years to come. So, gather your loved ones, put on your apron, and embark on a flavorful journey with the Beef Tamale Casserole.
Indulge in this irresistible recipe and let it transport you to the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. With every bite, you’ll savor the perfect harmony of ingredients that make this casserole a beloved favorite. So go ahead, dive into the cheesy goodness and experience the comfort and joy that this Beef Tamale Casserole brings to your table.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Definitely! This recipe works well with ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian meat substitutes. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cornbread mixture and cook the ground beef in advance. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the casserole, bake it according to the instructions, and enjoy!
Can I freeze the Beef Tamale Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Make sure to cover it tightly with foil or place it in an airtight container. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish is quite hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans to complete the meal.

Beef Tamale Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 package 8.5 oz. cornbread mix
- 1 can 14.75 oz. creamed corn
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 package 1 oz. taco seasoning
- ⅔ cup salsa
- 1 can 10 oz. enchilada sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Grease a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cornbread mix, creamed corn, eggs, milk, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Pour the cornbread mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cornbread is baking, cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until it's no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the taco seasoning packet and salsa to the skillet, stirring until the beef is well-coated and the flavors meld together. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Toss the cooked beef in the enchilada sauce until it's evenly coated.
- Pour the beef mixture over the baked cornbread in the baking dish and top it with the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes, then cut it into 6 or 8 squares.
- Serve the Beef Tamale Casserole with your favorite taco toppings, such as sour cream, diced tomatoes, guacamole, or fresh cilantro.
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