Introduction
Looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the rich flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine? Look no further than this delightful Texas Tamale Pie! Picture layers of savory ground beef simmered with aromatic spices, nestled under a fluffy, cornbread-like topping, all crowned with a melty blanket of cheddar cheese. It’s a dish that not only warms the heart but also fills the home with an irresistible aroma, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to warm to the perfect baking temperature.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into bite-sized pieces. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic into the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, kidney beans, diced green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let this glorious mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornmeal and baking powder, combining them thoroughly.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and egg until well blended.
- gently combine the wet ingredients with the cornmeal mixture—be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
- Spread half of the cornmeal batter evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, creating a comforting base for the pie.
- Pour the savory meat mixture evenly over the batter, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Spoon the remaining cornmeal batter over the meat layer, using a spatula to smooth it out as needed.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top, allowing it to melt beautifully as it bakes.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and irresistibly inviting.
- Once baked to perfection, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. For an extra pop of flavor, garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes or Tips
For a spicier kick, feel free to add diced jalapeños or use spicy chili powder. You can also customize this dish by incorporating other ingredients like corn kernels or black olives. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, and they reheat beautifully!
Cooking Techniques
This dish showcases a delightful layering technique that ensures each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors. Browning the beef first caramelizes the meat, enhancing the overall flavor. Simmering the meat mixture allows all the ingredients to form a rich, cohesive sauce, while the cornmeal batter creates that signature soft and slightly crumbly texture we love in tamale pie.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. When ready, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based protein, and you can use vegetable broth or additional veggies for added flavor.
Conclusion
This Texas Tamale Pie is the embodiment of comfort food, bringing together delicious layers and bold flavors in every slice. It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family. So, gather your loved ones and enjoy this delightful dish that speaks to the heart and soul of home cooking!