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Texas Tamale Pie

A cozy, crowd-pleasing comfort food casserole that combines seasoned meat, smoky spices, and a cheesy cornbread topping perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meat and Veggies
  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey Turkey makes a lighter, healthy option.
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped Swap with shallots for a delicate sweetness.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes, drained Fire-roasted adds a smoky edge.
  • 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons chili powder To taste.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Use regular paprika for less smoke.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed Optional, but adds sweetness.
Cornbread Topping
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Plus extra for sprinkling.
  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour For a tender cornbread, swap half for whole wheat.
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 tablespoons sugar Optional, brings out cornbread color and flavor.
  • 1 cup buttermilk Or 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar as a quick substitute.
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
Garnishes
  • to taste fresh cilantro For garnish.
  • to taste sliced jalapenos For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set it near the stove.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey with the chopped onion and bell pepper.
  3. Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
  4. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, frozen corn, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 7 minutes.
  5. Transfer the savory meat mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Cornbread Batter
  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar (if using), and a pinch of salt.
  2. In another bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter. Pour the wet into the dry and stir until just combined.
  3. Pour the cornbread batter over the cheesy meat layer, smoothing gently with a spatula.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cornbread top is golden.
  2. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
  3. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapenos, and extra shredded cheese if desired.

Notes

Tip: Store toppings separately to keep textures fresh. Can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.