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Delicious Texas Tamale Pie with a flavorful tamale crust

Texas Tamale Pie

A delightful dish combining seasoned ground beef, black beans, and zesty tomatoes enveloped in a warm cornmeal crust, topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Southwestern, Tex-Mex
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed You can use canned or cooked dried beans.
  • 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies Adds a bit of spice to the dish.
Seasonings
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cornmeal Mixture
  • 1 cup cornmeal Use yellow cornmeal for the best flavor.
  • 1 cup milk You can substitute with plant-based milk.
  • 1 large egg Helps bind the mixture.
Toppings
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to use other cheese varieties.
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional) Adds flavor and color.
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish) Adds freshness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. 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.
Cooking
  1. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the cornmeal, milk, and egg, mixing until smooth.
  3. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour half of the cornmeal mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
  4. Layer the beef mixture over the cornmeal, then pour the remaining cornmeal mixture on top.
  5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and black olives over the top.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.
  7. Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

Enhance flavor by using fresh herbs like oregano or jalapeños. Serve with a green salad for a balanced meal. This dish is best paired with sides like salsa or guacamole.