Introduction
Welcome to a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Texas straight to your table! This Texas Tamale Pie is a comforting combination of savory ground beef, spicy chili beans, and a fluffy cornbread topping. It’s the perfect meal for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet easy to prepare. With every bite, you’ll experience a wonderful fusion of textures and flavors that will make your taste buds sing.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Sliced jalapeños, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), allowing it to reach the perfect temperature for baking.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
- Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
- Mix in the chili beans (with their liquid), tomato sauce, corn, chili powder, cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- While your beef mixture is simmering, grab a separate bowl. Combine the cornbread mix, egg, and milk, stirring gently until just combined for a light and fluffy topping.
- Spread the hot beef mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, making sure it covers the bottom well.
- Pour the cornbread batter over the beef layer, spreading it out evenly with a spatula for a lovely, even topping.
- Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the cornbread batter, giving it a deliciously cheesy finish.
- Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cornbread is a golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked to perfection, let your tamale pie cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares.
- If desired, garnish each serving with sliced jalapeños and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize your Texas Tamale Pie! You can add black beans for extra protein, or throw in some diced bell peppers for added crunch. For a spicy kick, use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar or add more chili powder.
Cooking Techniques
Cooking the ground beef until it’s well browned is crucial for deep flavor. Sautéing the onions and garlic until they are soft and fragrant will enhance the overall taste of the pie. Finally, be sure not to overmix the cornbread batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine and will yield a light, fluffy texture!
FAQ
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Conclusion
Your table will certainly come alive with this Texas Tamale Pie. This comforting dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that embraces the essence of home cooking. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings, this pie will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this savory delight, and happy cooking!