Easy Tamale Pie
A hearty, flavorful tamale pie featuring seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, corn, and olives, topped with cornbread, perfect for comforting gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and mix in the prepared Jiffy cornbread mix.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cornbread batter on top of the meat mixture.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 30 minutes until the cornbread is golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger. You can also add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra heat. If you don’t have Jiffy cornbread mix, substitute with homemade cornbread using cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and milk. This dish is versatile, so feel free to mix in black beans or corn if you have them on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tamale Pie with a side of sour cream and fresh cilantro for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Margie's Spanish Rice or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve it alongside some homemade Nacho Party Dip for a delightful appetizer spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven will keep the cornbread topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Tamale Pie contains roughly 670 calories, with 27g protein, 176g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (508% of the Daily Value), protein (55% of the Daily Value), and iron (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2654mg per serving (115% 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 meat mixture and cornbread batter a day ahead. Just store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, combine them in a greased casserole dish and follow the baking instructions. This makes for a convenient meal on busy days.
What can I use instead of olives?
If you’re not a fan of olives or don’t have them, you can omit them entirely or substitute with diced green chiles for a mild flavor. Alternatively, try adding some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick, or even some diced bell peppers for a mild sweetness.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze the Tamale Pie either before or after baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. This makes for an easy weeknight dinner option.
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).