Mexican Independence Day Tamale Pie
A hearty Mexican-inspired tamale pie combining seasoned ground beef, corn, beans, and spicy flavors topped with cheesy cornbread, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 1 1/2 tsp. garlic powder ⓘ
- 1 pt. stewed tomatoes
- 1 (16 oz.) can refried beans ⓘ
- 1 (16 oz.) jar mild chunky picante sauce ⓘ
- 1 (8 3/4 oz.) can whole kernel corn, drained ⓘ
- 1/2 cup sliced green onion ⓘ
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro or parsley ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. ground cumin ⓘ
- 1 package cornbread mix ⓘ
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with garlic powder; drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked meat with stewed tomatoes, refried beans, picante sauce, drained corn, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and ground cumin.
- Spoon the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions, then fold in the shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Spread the cornbread batter over the meat mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let stand for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or using a spicier picante sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with lentils or tempeh, and use a plant-based cornbread mix. Make sure to drain the tomatoes well to prevent excess moisture in your pie. This dish is versatile and can be customized with your favorite Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tamale Pie with a side of Mexican Corn Dip for a festive touch. A simple green salad or a side of Black Beans And Rice Salad adds freshness. Garnish with extra cilantro and sour cream for a creamy contrast. This dish makes a great centerpiece for celebrations or casual dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, checking for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Independence Day Tamale Pie contains roughly 895 calories, with 47g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (330% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (135% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 840mg per serving (37% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and cornbread batter separately, then assemble and bake just before serving. Alternatively, you can bake it ahead of time, let it cool, and refrigerate. Reheat it in the oven before serving to keep the cornbread fluffy.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Lentils or black beans also work well if you want a protein-packed vegetarian dish.
How do I know when the Tamale Pie is done?
The Tamale Pie is ready when the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Additionally, the edges should be bubbly. Let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving to help it set.
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).