Penney'S War Pie
A hearty, flavorful casserole combining seasoned ground beef, beans, and tomatoes topped with golden cornbread, perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet, then drain excess fat.
- Add chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, canned tomatoes, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in drained kidney beans.
- Pour the meat mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Spread the corn bread batter evenly over the meat mixture.
- Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra heat. If you want a thicker filling, reduce the amount of canned tomatoes. Using homemade cornbread batter will elevate the dish. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially if you're a fan of spicy dishes.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pie pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or coleslaw for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese on top. For a more substantial meal, consider accompanying it with cornbread or biscuits. It’s a great dish to share at gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, checking for warmth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penney'S War Pie contains roughly 724 calories, with 40g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (111% of the Daily Value), protein (80% of the Daily Value), and iron (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 609mg per serving (26% 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 a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you're ready to bake, spread the cornbread batter on top and bake as directed. This will save time on busy days and allow the flavors to meld together.
What can I substitute for kidney beans?
If you don't have kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans are excellent alternatives. They will provide a similar texture and flavor. You could also use chickpeas for a different taste. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well before adding to the mixture.
Can I freeze Penney's War Pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed.
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).