Beef Tamale Pie

Servings: 4 Total Time: 55 mins Difficulty: Beginner
A hearty, comforting casserole featuring spiced ground beef topped with golden, slightly sweet cornbread — perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
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Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 35 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 55 mins
Cooking Temp: 190  C Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 16 Calories: 520
Best Season: Fall, Winter, Spring
Dietary:

Description

Beef Tamale Pie is a crowd-pleasing, all-in-one casserole that layers savory seasoned ground beef with a fluffy cornbread topping. With southwestern spices and melty cheese optional, this cozy bake is a delicious twist on comfort food — ideal for casual gatherings or meal prep.

Ingredients

Cooking Mode Disabled

Ingredients

For the Beef Filling:

For the Cornbread Topping:

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling

  1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 2–3 minutes.
  3. Add garlic and ground beef; cook until browned.
  4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, tomato sauce, and corn. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Transfer the beef filling to a greased baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Cornbread Topping

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using).
  2. In a separate bowl, beat egg with milk and melted butter.
  3. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir just until blended. Fold in cheese if using.

Step 3: Assemble & Bake

  1. Pour the cornbread batter over the beef filling in the baking dish. Spread evenly.
  2. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until cornbread is golden and cooked through.
  3. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Serving Size 1 slice (~1/4 of total recipe)


Amount Per Serving
Calories 520kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 27g42%
Saturated Fat 10g50%
Cholesterol 80mg27%
Sodium 580mg25%
Potassium 450mg13%
Total Carbohydrate 38g13%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 6g
Protein 28g57%

Vitamin A 850 IU
Vitamin C 6 mg
Calcium 120 mg
Iron 3 mg
Vitamin D 10 IU
Vitamin E 1.8 IU
Folate 65 mcg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Tips & Swaps

  • Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños to the filling or topping.
  • Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
  • Add beans like black or pinto for extra fiber and heartiness.
Keywords: beef tamale pie, cornbread casserole with beef, ground beef bake, easy tamale casserole, beef and cornbread skillet

Why You’ll Love It 💛

  • One-pan convenience
  • Perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet
  • Great for leftovers and meal prep
  • Family-friendly and budget-friendly
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Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and refrigerate before baking. Add 5–10 minutes extra baking time if cold.

Can I use a boxed cornbread mix?

Absolutely. Replace the topping with your favorite mix following package instructions.

What should I serve with it?

A fresh green salad or coleslaw balances the richness well.

Can I freeze it?

Yes — wrap tightly and freeze in portions for up to 2 months.

Is it gluten-free?

Not as written, but can be made with gluten-free flour and cornmeal.

Shopie Lane

Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hi, I’m Sophie Lane — a food lover, curious traveler, and storyteller at heart. I’m passionate about inspiring others to live healthier, happier lives through simple, nourishing meals and mindful exploration of the world.

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