Esther'S Tamale Pie
A hearty tamale pie featuring seasoned ground meat, corn, olives, and chili flavors, baked with quick cooking grits—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute ground meat and drain well.
- Set aside cooked meat in a large bowl or pan.
- Saute onion and bell pepper.
- Add the cooked meat, sautéed vegetables, corn, olives, tomato sauce, quick cooking grits, milk, and chili powder to the meat.
- Mix really well.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Bake at 325°F for about 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or using a spicier chili powder. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef if you're looking for a leaner option. Additionally, feel free to mix in other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition. If you prefer a creamier texture, increase the amount of milk slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Esther's Tamale Pie with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for extra flavor. Pair it with a side of Jean's Taco Salad for a refreshing crunch or enjoy it with Calabacitos Con Elote for a delicious vegetable complement. A simple green salad or tortilla chips with Vickie’s Famous Salsa makes for a great side as well.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover tamale pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven will help maintain the texture of the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Esther'S Tamale Pie contains roughly 451 calories, with 21g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (230% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 752mg per serving (33% 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 tamale pie vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground meat with a mix of beans or lentils. Increase the amount of vegetables like bell peppers, corn, and zucchini to enhance the flavor and texture. This is a great way to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal without meat.
What can I use instead of quick cooking grits?
If you don't have quick cooking grits, you can use cornmeal or even polenta as a substitute. However, keep in mind that cooking times may vary. If using cornmeal, ensure to adjust the liquid accordingly and cook it longer until it reaches a creamy consistency.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat to your tamale pie, increase the amount of chili powder or add diced fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers. You could also incorporate some chipotle powder for a smoky flavor. Adjust according to your spice tolerance to achieve the perfect kick!
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).