Description
If you’re craving a comforting Tex-Mex twist on an easy dinner idea, this Texas Tamale Pie Casserole is your answer. It’s a hearty one-dish meal layered with seasoned ground beef, corn, tomatoes, and spices, all topped with golden, cheesy cornbread. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, cozy food ideas, or a freezer-friendly casserole, this easy recipe will quickly become a favorite. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meal planning.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup sweet corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 box cornbread mix (about 8.5 oz)
1/3 cup milk
1 large egg
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 green onions, chopped (optional)
1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch or similar baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add corn and stir to combine.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cornbread mix with milk and egg. Stir just until combined. Fold in half of the shredded cheese.
5. Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Pour cornbread mixture on top and smooth out evenly.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Top with remaining cheddar cheese, green onions, and jalapeños if using. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For a leaner option, use ground turkey or ground chicken.
Add a drained can of black beans for extra fiber and flavor.
Let the casserole rest 5–10 minutes before slicing for cleaner portions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pan)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: easy dinner, tamale pie, cornbread casserole, family meal, quick weeknight recipe