Green Corn Tamale Pie
A hearty savory pie with sweet corn, green chilies, and sharp cheddar, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks craving comforting, flavorful dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Drain the can of corn and save the liquid.
- Mix corn, masa harina, chopped green chilies, soft butter, sugar, salt, and grated Cheddar cheese in a bowl.
- Add the reserved corn liquid to the mixture.
- If the corn liquid isn't enough to make 2/3 cup, add water to reach the required amount.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered 8-inch square casserole dish.
- Place the casserole into a pan filled with boiling water to create a water bath.
- Bake for 45 to 60 minutes until set and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or paprika to the mix. For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the milk with sour cream. If masa harina is unavailable, you can use cornmeal, but the texture will differ slightly. This dish is versatile; feel free to incorporate other vegetables like diced bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Green Corn Tamale Pie with a side of fresh avocado or a light salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Nora'S Mexican Cornbread for a comforting dinner. You can also top it with a dollop of sour cream or salsa for added flavor. This dish is great as a main course or a hearty side for your favorite Mexican recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Corn Tamale Pie contains roughly 647 calories, with 4g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (87% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1143mg per serving (50% 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 fresh corn instead of canned corn?
Yes, you can use fresh corn! Just make sure to cook it first and measure out about 2 cups of kernels. Fresh corn will provide a sweeter flavor and a different texture compared to canned corn.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is already gluten-free since it uses masa harina, which is made from corn. Just ensure that all other ingredients, like the baking powder, are also gluten-free. Check labels to be safe.
Can I freeze the Green Corn Tamale Pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze the pie before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. If already baked, reheat directly from frozen.
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).