The Best Homemade Tamale Pie Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This tamale pie is a cozy, comforting dish that brings together the best flavors of tamales in an easy-to-make casserole. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up, even on busy weeknights.

• Hearty and filling—packed with savory meat, cornbread topping, and melty cheese for a satisfying meal.
• Family-friendly—kids and adults alike will enjoy the familiar, delicious flavors.
• Customizable—swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it versatile for any crowd.

Recipe

Homemade tamale pie combines the flavors of traditional tamales with the ease of a casserole. This dish features a savory filling topped with a cornbread crust, making it a comforting and hearty meal perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

Ingredients

– 1 pound ground beef or turkey

– 1 medium onion, chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed

– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes

– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

– 1 tablespoon chili powder

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 box (8.5 ounces) cornbread mix

– 1/3 cup milk

– 1 egg

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. In a mixing bowl, prepare the cornbread batter according to the package instructions using the milk and egg.
6. Spread the cornbread batter evenly over the filling.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

– For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or increase the chili powder.

– Substitute ground chicken or plant-based meat for a different variation.

Equipment

– Large skillet

– 9×13-inch baking dish

– Mixing bowl

Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Cuisine

Mexican-American

Serving

Serves 6–8

Nutrition

This homemade tamale pie is a hearty and flavorful dish, packed with essential nutrients. Below is the nutritional information per serving.

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my homemade tamale pie with fresh sides like a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for extra flavor. For drinks, I usually go for something invigorating, like iced tea or a tangy limeade, to balance the richness of the dish. These combos make the meal feel complete without overwhelming the star of the show.

Side Dishes

When serving tamale pie, I love pairing it with dishes that balance its rich, hearty flavors. A crisp green salad with lime dressing adds freshness, while roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers bring a smoky note. I often include a side of Spanish rice or black beans for extra texture and flavor. Guacamole or a zesty pico de gallo adds a creamy or tangy contrast, depending on my mood. For something simple, warm tortilla chips with salsa hit the spot. These sides complement the pie without overpowering it, making each bite even better.

Beverage Pairings

Often, I find that a great meal isn’t complete without the perfect drink to go with it, and tamale pie is no exception. A cold Mexican lager or a crisp lime-infused soda cuts through the richness beautifully. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, horchata’s creamy cinnamon sweetness balances the savory spices. For wine lovers, a fruity Zinfandel or a light-bodied Tempranillo works wonders. I sometimes pair it with iced hibiscus tea—its tartness complements the pie’s hearty flavors. Whatever you choose, make sure it refreshes your palate between bites. Trust me, the right drink elevates the whole experience.

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younes

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