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Delicious Texas Tamale Pie topped with cheese and spices on a plate

Texas Tamale Pie

A hearty Tex-Mex dish that combines flavors and ingredients, perfect for warm family dinners and gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Tex-Mex
Servings 8 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  • Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
  • In a separate bowl, mix the cornmeal, milk, and egg until smooth.
  • Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour half of the cornmeal mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
  • Layer the beef mixture over the cornmeal, then pour the remaining cornmeal mixture on top.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and black olives over the top.

Baking

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.
  • Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

Serve warm, paired with sour cream, guacamole, or a simple green salad. Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or corn for nutrition. For spiciness, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, use additional beans or lentils.
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Hearty Dish, Tex-Mex Cuisine, Texas Tamale Pie