Easy One Pot Tamale Pie Recipe - Perfect Weeknight Dinner

Discover how to make this Easy One Pot Tamale Pie! Packed with flavorful ground beef, bell peppers, and topped with cheesy cornbread, this recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. Follow along with Kelvin's Kitchen for step-by-step instructions and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal tonight.

A tamale is a traditional Mesoamerican dish, made of masa, a dough made from nixtamalized corn, which is steamed in a corn husk or banana leaf. The wrapping can either be discarded prior to eating or used as a plate

Tamale

Tamale pie is thought to have originated in Texas sometime in the 1900s and became popular in high school cafeterias to feed to students. Variations may include beef, pork, chicken, chorizo, beans, and cheese with vegetables, cornbread, and/or creamed corn.

Where does tamale pie originate?

15 FAQs About Easy One Pot Tamale Pie

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option.
Is this recipe spicy? It has a mild kick from the jalapeño, but you can adjust the spice level to your taste.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and cornbread batter ahead of time and assemble just before baking.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this tamale pie? Yes, you can freeze the baked pie for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
What can I serve with this tamale pie? Serve with a side salad, sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack.
Is this recipe gluten-free? You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free all-purpose flour.
Can I add beans to the filling? Yes, adding black beans or pinto beans would be a delicious addition.
Can I use fresh corn instead of creamed corn? Yes, but creamed corn adds a nice texture and sweetness to the cornbread topping.
Do I have to use both red and green bell peppers? No, you can use one or the other, or substitute with another vegetable.
How can I make this dish vegetarian? Replace the ground beef with a meat substitute or additional vegetables and beans.
Can I add more spices to the beef mixture? Yes, you can add spices like cumin, coriander, or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
Do I need to grease the baking dish? It's a good idea to lightly grease the baking dish to prevent sticking.
How can I make the cornbread topping fluffier? Ensure you don't overmix the batter and let it sit for a few minutes before spreading over the beef mixture.

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Tamale Pie Video Tutorial

Easy One Pot Tamale Pie

Ingredients:

For the Beef Mixture:

1.5 lbs lean ground beef
1 chicken bouillon cube
2 Tbsp chili powder
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 medium onion, diced
1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
1 cup water
1 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Cornbread Mix:

1 cup yellow cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 Tbsp baking powder
2 Tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1 large egg
14.75 oz can creamed corn
1/2 cup milk
1 large jalapeño, diced
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

Cook the Beef Mixture:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook for 5-6 minutes until browned.
- Add diced onion and cook for another 2 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add diced bell peppers, oregano, cilantro, chili powder, and stir to combine.
- Add water and chicken bouillon cube, dissolving the cube. Season with black pepper and cook until the water evaporates. Taste and adjust seasoning. Preheat oven to 400°F.
Prepare the Cornbread Mix:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Add egg, milk, and creamed corn, mixing until combined. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeño.
Assemble and Bake:
- Spread the cooked ground beef mixture in an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Pour the cornbread mixture over the cheese, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes until the cornbread is golden and set.

Additional Notes:

Variations: You can add corn kernels, black beans, or olives to the beef mixture for extra flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, or a fresh green salad on the side.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 450
Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 900mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
Protein: 24g

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