Lela'S Tamale Pie
A hearty, flavorful casserole combining seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, corn, and a tender cornbread topping—perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef; add canned tomatoes, taco mix, and cream-style corn. Keep hot until the topping is ready.
- Mix the cornbread mix according to the package directions.
- Pour the meat mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Spread the prepared cornbread mixture over the meat mixture.
- Bake in a 400°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, substitute ground turkey for the ground chuck for a leaner option. You can also use homemade cornbread if you prefer from-scratch recipes. This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to your taste, just like Pa'S Molasses Cookies can be adapted for different flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lela's Tamale Pie with a side of fresh guacamole or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Peach Buttermilk Soup for a comforting dinner. You could also top each serving with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the tamale pie in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes to maintain the cornbread's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lela'S Tamale Pie contains roughly 657 calories, with 32g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (63% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1115mg per serving (48% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and cornbread batter in advance. Assemble the tamale pie up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute for vegetarian recipes can work well in this dish. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of meat you choose.
What can I serve with the tamale pie?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a refreshing salad or some seasoned rice. You can also serve it alongside tortilla chips and salsa for a fun, casual meal. Consider adding a side of Stupendous Spuds for a hearty twist.
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).