Tamale Pie
Tamale pie is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the heartiness of tamales with the convenience of a pie. This dish features layers of seasoned meat, beans, and a cornbread topping, making it a satisfying meal for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, tamale pie is sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step cooking process that will bring this dish to life!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 package (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30-35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the pie) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. This is based on typical ingredients and may vary based on specific brands used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat.
- Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions, adding the egg and milk.
- Spread the meat mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the cornbread batter over the meat mixture, spreading it evenly.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize tamale pie by substituting ground beef with ground chicken or a plant-based alternative for a healthier option. Additionally, swap black beans for pinto beans or add vegetables like bell peppers for extra flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Tamale pie pairs well with a fresh green salad, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream. Consider serving it with tortilla chips for added crunch!
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover tamale pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s tightly wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much liquid can make the filling soggy.
- Not browning the meat properly can lead to less flavor.
- Overbaking can dry out the cornbread topping.
- Skipping the cooling time can make slicing difficult.
- Forgetting to grease the baking dish may cause sticking.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses for added flavor.
- Experiment with spices to tailor the heat level.
- Let the pie sit for a few minutes for easier serving.
- Consider adding jalapeños for extra spice.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative to cater to different dietary preferences.
Is tamale pie gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free cornbread mix and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I make tamale pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking, which can enhance the flavors.
How do I know when the pie is done?
The pie is done when the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
What can I serve with tamale pie?
Tamale pie goes well with a fresh salad, guacamole, or sour cream. It’s versatile and pairs nicely with many sides!
Conclusion
Tamale pie is a delicious and versatile dish that brings the flavors of traditional tamales into a convenient and satisfying pie form. With its rich ingredients and comforting texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy a slice of this delightful meal!
Tamale Pie
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- 1 package 8.5 oz cornbread mix
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat.
- Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions, adding the egg and milk.
- Spread the meat mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the cornbread batter over the meat mixture, spreading it evenly.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
