What is Tamale Pie?
A tamale is a delicious favorite, with a masa (corn) dough wrapped around meat and steamed in corn leaves until tender. This dish is definitely not a traditional tamale but plays on the corn and meat flavors. This quick dish starts on the stovetop and is then baked to perfection with cheese. We love tamale pie because it’s easy to make, inexpensive, and ready to go in less than an hour!
Ingredients and Variations
PROTEIN This is a super basic recipe with ground beef and cheese. Sub any favorite cheese, and feel free to use ground turkey or chicken in place of beef. VEGGIES This recipe has corn of course, but it also works perfectly with leftover veggies, too! Try adding shredded zucchini, frozen diced veggies, a can of diced tomatoes, jalapenos, or sliced black olives. TOPPINGS Top with sour cream, salsa, or even guacamole!
How to Make Tamale Pie
Tamale Pie is short on prep time but big on taste!
Tips for Success
A great tamale pie is hearty, flavorful, and filling!
For best results, as the ground meat is cooking, use a spatula to separate it so it is finely ground. Adding egg to the cornbread topping mixture gives it structure and extra flavor. Once tamale pie is cooked, it can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Reheat by placing it in a preheated oven, or microwaving a single portion. Adjust seasonings and serve it up again! Freeze tamale pie in an airtight container and label the outside with the date on it. It stays tasty for 2 to 3 months. Let the tamale pie thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
While the tamale pie is cooking, set out your favorite toppings including the sour cream, salsa, and guacamole!
More Ground Beef Casseroles
Stuffed Peppers Beef Taco Pasta Skillet – ready in 30 minutes Beef and Macaroni Soup Unstuffed Peppers Easy Homemade Lasagna Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
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