Are you craving a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further than this delightful Tamale Pie recipe! This twist on a classic combines the comforting flavors of traditional tamales with the convenience of a simple casserole. Using Jiffy corn muffin mix as a base, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and will quickly become a family favorite. It’s a delicious dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly quick to make, making it a perfect example of a healthy meal that doesn't sacrifice flavor.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This easy tamale pie recipe requires readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering.
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 packet (8.5 ounces) Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:
This recipe is designed for simplicity, ensuring that even beginner cooks can achieve delicious results.
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Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and onion until the beef is cooked through and the onion is softened. Drain off any excess grease.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the corn, black beans, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder to the skillet. Stir well to combine and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together the Jiffy corn muffin mix, milk, and egg until smooth.
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Assemble the Pie: Pour the meat and vegetable mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour the cornbread batter evenly over the top.
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Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If desired, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Let the tamale pie cool slightly before serving. This delicious quick dinner idea is perfect on its own or served with a side salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Tamale Pie:
- For extra flavor, sauté the onions in a little olive oil before browning the ground beef.
- If you prefer a spicier tamale pie, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the filling.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Chicken Tamale Pie: Substitute 1.5 pounds of cooked shredded chicken for the ground beef.
- Vegetarian Tamale Pie: Omit the meat and add 1 cup of cooked quinoa or brown rice to the filling for added protein and texture.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
This easy tamale pie recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, providing a satisfying and comforting meal perfect for any occasion. It's a great way to enjoy homemade cooking without spending hours in the kitchen – the perfect recipe for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. Enjoy!