One-Step Tamale Pie
A hearty and flavorful tamale pie combining seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and cornmeal crust, ideal for comforting family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic in a skillet until beef is browned and vegetables are tender.
- Stir in tomato sauce, drained corn, hot sauce, chili powder, olives, and any other seasonings.
- Pour the mixture into a 12 x 7 1/2 x 2-inch pan and spread evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine cornmeal, milk, and slightly beaten eggs, then pour over the beef mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef to lighten the dish. You can also use canned diced tomatoes instead of tomato sauce for added texture. If you're looking to spice things up, add jalapeños or diced green chilies. This tamale pie is a great way to utilize leftover ingredients from other Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this tamale pie with a side of fresh guacamole or salsa for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or seasoned rice. For an extra treat, top with shredded cheese or sour cream before serving. It makes a delightful main dish for gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
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, covering them to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of One-Step Tamale Pie contains roughly 1371 calories, with 34g protein, 284g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (349% of the Daily Value), iron (97% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (95% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2219mg 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 this tamale pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tamale pie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just assemble the layers, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove the foil and follow the baking instructions.
What can I substitute for olives in this recipe?
If you don't like olives or don't have them on hand, you can omit them or substitute with capers for a similar briny flavor. Alternatively, diced bell peppers or jalapeños can add a nice crunch and a hint of spice to the dish.
How spicy is this tamale pie?
The spiciness of the tamale pie largely depends on the amount of hot sauce and chili powder you use. For a milder flavor, reduce the hot sauce or choose a mild chili powder. Conversely, for a spicier kick, you can add more hot sauce or include diced green chilies.
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).