This Easy Texas Tamale Pie Casserole is a fun mix of hearty ground beef and spicy chili, all baked together with tasty cornbread on top. It’s a warm and filling dish for any day!
Baking this pie is a breeze—you just layer and pop it in the oven! I love serving it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cheese. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The main protein here is ground beef, but you can easily swap it out for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat. This makes it a versatile dish that can cater to different dietary preferences.
Onion: Chopped onion adds great flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can use shallots or even leeks. For a milder taste, green onions are a fantastic substitute.
Chili: Using canned chili makes this recipe super quick. If you prefer homemade, go for it! You can adjust the spice level according to your taste. If you don’t like beans, choose chili without them.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes provide moisture and flavor. If fresh tomatoes are available, feel free to use those—just chop them up. You might need to adjust the cooking time a little.
Cheddar Cheese: I recommend sharp cheddar for its rich flavor, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack can also be nice alternatives, especially if you want a little kick!
How Do I Get the Cornmeal Topping Just Right?
The cornmeal topping is essential for that tamale pie feel. Making it just right can be a little tricky, but with these steps, you’ll nail it!
- Mix the cornmeal with milk and eggs until smooth. This is your batter, so make sure there are no lumps!
- Let the mixture sit for a few minutes. This helps the cornmeal hydrate and gives you a better texture in the oven.
- Pour it gently over the meat layer so you don’t disturb it too much. This will help keep your layers distinct!
- Don’t skip the baking powder; it gives the topping a nice rise. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Easy Texas Tamale Pie Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) chili with beans or chili without beans
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
For the Cornmeal Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
For Garnishing:
- Sour cream (optional)
- Chopped green onions (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Texas Tamale Pie Casserole takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of bake time. So, in just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole is nice and hot when you put it in to bake.
2. Cook the Beef and Onions:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat so your dish doesn’t get greasy.
3. Add Chili and Tomatoes:
Once the beef and onions are ready, stir in the canned chili and drained diced tomatoes. If you’re feeling spicy, add the optional chili powder for extra flavor. Let this mixture simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Prepare the Cornmeal Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, milk, eggs, melted butter, baking powder, and salt. Mix everything together until smooth—no lumps, please! This will be your delicious topping.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Take a greased 9×9 inch baking dish and pour in the meat mixture evenly. Then, gently pour the cornmeal batter over the meat layer, making sure it covers the meat completely. Lastly, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top.
6. Bake Your Casserole:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cornmeal topping is golden brown and set. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This helps everything set up nicely. Serve it warm, and don’t forget to add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions if you’d like. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Texas Tamale Pie Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for beef! It will keep the dish leaner while still providing great flavor. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and drain any excess moisture before adding the chili and tomatoes.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a mix of black beans, kidney beans, or even a vegetarian meat substitute. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or corn to the filling for extra texture and flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. If the topping gets a bit dry, adding a splash of milk or broth can help refresh it!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and cornbread batter up to a day in advance. Just keep them stored separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, layer them in the baking dish and follow the cooking instructions. This makes for an easier meal prep!