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Beef Tamale Pie

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 55 mins
Cooking Method: ,
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 190  C
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $  16
Calories: 520
Best Season: Fall, Winter, Spring
Dietary: Nut Free
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
    Ingredients
    For the Beef Filling:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup canned tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels (optional)
    • For the Cornbread Topping:
  • 3/4 cup cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg
  • 2/3 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup melted butter or oil
  • 1/2 Optional: cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
Instructions
    Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
  1. 1
    Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. 2
    In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 2–3 minutes.
  3. 3
    Add garlic and ground beef; cook until browned.
  4. 4
    Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, tomato sauce, and corn. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. 5
    Transfer the beef filling to a greased baking dish.
    6. Step 2: Make the Cornbread Topping
  6. 6
    In a mixing bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using).
  7. 7
    In a separate bowl, beat egg with milk and melted butter.
  8. 8
    Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir just until blended. Fold in cheese if using.
    9. Step 3: Assemble & Bake
  9. 9
    Pour the cornbread batter over the beef filling in the baking dish. Spread evenly.
  10. 10
    Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until cornbread is golden and cooked through.
  11. 11
    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
Read it online: https://foodievibe.com/recipe/beef-tamale-pie/
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.