Introduction
Welcome to the cozy world of Texas Tamale Pie, where bold flavors and comforting textures come together in a delightful dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. Imagine a savory ground beef mixture, enriched with spices and beans, all topped with a splendid cornmeal crust and a gooey layer of melted cheddar cheese. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, as it serves up a generous helping of deliciousness that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this easy and satisfying recipe that brings a slice of Texas to your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
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) to create the perfect baking environment for your tamale pie.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onion becomes tender and aromatic.
- Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Then, stir in the chili beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together beautifully.
- While the meat mixture simmers, take a separate bowl and combine the cornmeal, water, milk, egg, and baking powder. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Spread the savory meat and bean mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Pour the cornmeal mixture over the top of the meat mixture, ensuring it covers everything evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the cornmeal topping for that irresistible cheesy goodness.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cornmeal topping is set and achieves a golden brown hue.
- Once done, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving, letting those delightful flavors settle.
Notes or Tips
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. You can also substitute the ground beef for turkey or use a combination of beans for a vegetarian version. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread or a fresh garden salad!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of browning meat is essential for developing deep flavors in dishes like this tamale pie. Make sure to crumble the meat into small pieces as it cooks for even browning. Simmering the ingredients together allows them to blend harmoniously, creating a rich and hearty filling that’s full of flavor.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
No problem! You can prepare the meat mixture and cornmeal topping in advance. Just assemble them in the baking dish and refrigerate. When you’re ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from chilled.
Can I freeze tamale pie?
Yes! Tamale pie freezes incredibly well. Just let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until heated through.
Conclusion
This Texas Tamale Pie is not just a dish, it’s a warm hug on a plate! With rich flavors, a satisfying crunch from the cornmeal topping, and ooey-gooey cheese, this recipe is destined to become a family favorite. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy a hearty slice of comfort that celebrates the flavors of Texas. Happy cooking!