Amigo Pie
Amigo Pie is a hearty, cheesy casserole with a flavorful meat topping and a savory cornmeal crust, perfect for casual family dinners or gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger in a skillet.
- Add chopped tomatoes, chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper; cook until heated through.
- In a bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and baking powder.
- Add hot water and melted butter to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
- Stir in 1 cup Cheddar cheese.
- Pour the cornmeal batter into a greased pie pan.
- Spoon the meat mixture into the center of the cornmeal batter and press down gently.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes.
- Top with 1/2 cup Cheddar cheese and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.
- Serve with taco sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños to the meat mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the hamburger with black beans or lentils. You can also use a mix of different cheeses for more flavor, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack. To save time, prepare the filling in advance and assemble the pie when ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Amigo Pie hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. It pairs beautifully with taco sauce on the side for an extra kick. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a simple salad or some refried beans. This dish is a great choice for game day or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Amigo Pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For a crispier crust, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Amigo Pie contains roughly 1274 calories, with 18g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 110g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (47% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1420mg per serving (62% 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 use ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for hamburger in this recipe. It will provide a lighter flavor and is a healthier option. Just make sure to season it well, as turkey can be a bit bland on its own.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Amigo Pie gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure that the cornmeal is certified gluten-free. This will allow you to enjoy the pie without any gluten concerns.
Can I prepare this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and cornmeal batter ahead of time. Assemble the pie and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
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).