20 Minute Tamale Pie
A quick and hearty tamale pie featuring seasoned ground beef, corn, tomatoes, and melted cheese, perfect for satisfying family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Add chopped onion to the beef and cook until translucent.
- Drain excess fat from the meat mixture.
- In a bowl, combine corn, stewed tomatoes, sour cream, cornmeal, quartered olives, chili powder, and cumin.
- Mix well and then add the cooked beef mixture, stirring to combine.
- Reduce heat to low, sprinkle cheese over the mixture, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Serve hot with salsa.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker option, use pre-cooked ground beef or substitute with turkey or a plant-based alternative. You can also replace the cornmeal with a prepared cornbread mix for added sweetness. If you want more flavor, consider adding diced jalapeños or using spicy salsa. This dish pairs well with sides like beans or a salad, similar to Wanda'S Taco Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your tamale pie hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream. It goes well with a side of tortilla chips or a fresh garden salad. For an extra kick, offer a selection of salsas or hot sauces. This dish is a fantastic alternative to traditional Mexican recipes, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. Ensure the cheese is melted and bubbly for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 20 Minute Tamale Pie contains roughly 663 calories, with 25g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (78% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (64% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1311mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply combine with the other ingredients and bake. This can save time for busy weeknights.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella or Monterey Jack are recommended, feel free to experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for added flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the overall taste.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a meat alternative. Ensure all other ingredients remain vegetarian-friendly, and you’ll have a delicious tamale pie that everyone can enjoy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).