Ripe Olive Tamale Pie Casserole
A savory tamale pie casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, corn, olives, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners with bold flavors and hearty textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in 2 tablespoons oil.
- When meat is almost cooked, stir in chopped onion and cook until onion is transparent.
- Add tomatoes, corn, chili powder, and salt.
- Heat to boiling.
- Slowly stir in cornmeal.
- Cook over low heat 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the olives; stir into tamale mixture and turn into a 2-quart casserole.
- Sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 250°F for 30 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils. You can also use vegetable oil instead of cooking oil for a healthier option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. Make sure to stir the cornmeal in slowly to avoid lumps for a smoother texture in your tamale pie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Ripe Olive Tamale Pie Casserole with a side of fresh guacamole or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top. For a complete dinner, consider serving with cornbread or tortilla chips. This dish is perfect for gatherings, alongside other Mexican recipes for a festive spread.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ripe Olive Tamale Pie Casserole contains roughly 207 calories, with 7g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2056mg per serving (89% 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 use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute American cheese with cheddar for a sharper flavor or Monterey Jack for a creamier texture. Just make sure to adjust the quantity to fit your taste preference.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be creatively repurposed into burritos or tacos. You can also mix it with scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast or add it to a salad for a filling lunch option.
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).