Spanish Corn Pie
A hearty Spanish-inspired casserole layered with seasoned ground beef, corn, and tamales, topped with Parmesan cheese—perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the tamales and reserve the liquid.
- Mash the tamales and combine with the drained corn.
- Sauté ground beef, finely chopped onion, and chopped celery until the meat is crumbly.
- Stir in the tomato paste.
- Add enough water to the reserved tamale liquid to make 2/3 cup and pour into the mixture, seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic salt.
- In a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole, arrange alternate layers of the tomato and corn mixture and the meat mixture.
- Optionally, add pitted black olives on top.
- Insert the tips of bay leaves into each end of the casserole.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake in a moderate 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove bay leaves before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier version, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or black beans. You can also use fresh corn instead of canned for a sweeter flavor. For added depth, sauté the onion until caramelized before adding the celery.
Serving Suggestions
This Spanish Corn Pie pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or a side of black beans. For a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside Mexican rice or cornbread. Top with fresh cilantro or avocado slices for a burst of flavor. It also makes a great dish for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, covering them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Corn Pie contains roughly 359 calories, with 15g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (131% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and potassium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1952mg per serving (85% 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 different types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version. Each option will bring its unique flavor while maintaining the dish's integrity.
What can I do if I don't have tamales?
If you don't have tamales, you can use pre-made cornbread or even polenta as a bottom layer in the casserole. This will provide a similar texture and sweetness that complements the corn and beef mixture.
Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers of Spanish Corn Pie. Ensure it is stored in a freezer-safe container and consumed within 2-3 months for the best quality. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F until warm.
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).