Description
Craving a bold, comforting dish that’s easy to make and full of Tex-Mex flavor? This Texas Tamale Pie Casserole is your go-to solution for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Juicy seasoned beef, sweet corn, and black beans are layered under a golden, cheesy cornbread crust. It's a one-pan wonder that delivers on flavor and convenience. Perfect for those seeking easy dinner ideas, family-friendly casseroles, or a quick weeknight meal that feels like a treat. This recipe also fits perfectly in your rotation of easy recipes, comfort food ideas, and Southwestern dinner inspiration.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.25 teaspoon black pepper
8 oz can tomato sauce
1 cup frozen or canned corn, drained
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
0.5 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1 egg
0.25 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
0.5 cup diced tomatoes
0.25 cup sour cream
2 green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Additional shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and sauté diced onions for 2–3 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add tomato sauce, corn, and black beans. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat.
5. In a bowl, whisk cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix milk, egg, and melted butter. Combine wet and dry ingredients. Fold in shredded cheese.
6. Pour cornbread batter evenly over the meat mixture in the skillet. Smooth the top and sprinkle with extra cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until cornbread is golden and cooked through. A toothpick should come out clean.
8. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
9. Top with diced tomatoes, sour cream, green onions, and cilantro if using. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Make the meat filling ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours to speed up dinner.
Let the casserole rest before cutting to prevent it from falling apart.
Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 690
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Unsaturated Fat: 12
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 36
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 24
- Cholesterol: 95
Keywords: texas tamale pie, tamale casserole, easy dinner, cornbread casserole, tex-mex recipe, weeknight casserole