Miriam'S Tamale Pie
Mildly savory tamale pie with a hearty cornmeal crust, seasoned beef, vegetables, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water to a boil and add 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Slowly add the cornmeal and cook over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Line an 8-cup lightly greased casserole with 2/3 of the hot cornmeal mush, bringing it up the sides as much as possible. Add boiling water if the mush is too thick to spread.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned.
- Add chopped onion and chopped green pepper to the beef, cooking until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the can of whole kernel corn with liquid and salt.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly over the cornmeal crust.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly sweeter tamale pie, consider adding a pinch of sugar to the beef mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version. If you're short on time, pre-cooked cornmeal can reduce cooking time. Pair this dish with Sheila'S Salsa for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tamale pie hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or diced avocado for added freshness. It pairs wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad. For a fun twist, offer a side of Megan'S Taco Salad to complement the flavors. Enjoy it with your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the tamale pie to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Miriam'S Tamale Pie contains roughly 636 calories, with 17g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (138% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2199mg per serving (96% 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 tamale pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tamale pie ahead of time. Assemble the layers and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I substitute for the ground beef?
You can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a meat alternative like lentils or quinoa for a vegetarian option. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to ensure the flavors are well balanced.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the beef mixture. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of Cheddar or American cheese for an extra kick. Experiment with your favorite spices to customize the spiciness to your taste!
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).