Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

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Texas Tamale Pie Casserole is the kind of recipe that warms your soul and fills the house with the unmistakable aroma of Southern comfort. Imagine a skillet packed with well-seasoned ground beef, sweet corn, and Mexican spices, all layered beneath a golden, slightly crisp cornbread topping. It’s finished with a dollop of sour cream, a scoop of salsa, and a sprinkle of fresh green onions for that perfect Tex-Mex bite.

This dish is ideal for weeknights when you need something hearty, flavorful, and unfussy. It’s a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, perfect for chilly evenings, and easy to make ahead. Plus, it offers a satisfying balance of textures—a soft and crumbly top with a rich and juicy base that feels like home in every forkful.

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Why You’ll Love This Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

• Hearty & Satisfying: Packed with protein and fiber from ground beef and beans.
• Flavor-Packed: Bold, Tex-Mex spices infuse every bite.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cook, bake, and serve straight from your cast iron skillet.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults both dig in happily.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into your casserole creation, prep the essentials to make your process smooth and stress-free:

Essential Tools and Equipment:

• Cast Iron Skillet (10-12 inch): A must for both stovetop browning and oven baking, creating a crisp cornbread crust and even heat distribution.
• Mixing Bowl: Useful for preparing your cornbread batter separately before layering it on top.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Helps break down the ground beef while evenly mixing spices and vegetables.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precision, especially for the cornbread mix.
• Oven Mitts: Safety first! That skillet gets hot.

These tools not only simplify your process but help achieve that authentic tamale pie texture—rich, rustic, and baked to golden perfection.

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Ingredients for the Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

• Ground Beef: The hearty foundation of the filling, savory and satisfying.
• Yellow Corn Kernels: Adds sweetness and crunch to balance the spice.
• Black Beans: For added protein, fiber, and that Tex-Mex authenticity.
• Chopped Onion & Garlic: Build a rich, aromatic base layer of flavor.
• Taco Seasoning: Brings together cumin, chili, paprika, and a touch of heat.
• Cornbread Mix: The golden topping that gives this dish its pie-like comfort.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the beef layer and adds gooey richness.
• Diced Tomatoes (with green chiles optional): Juicy and flavorful, ties the filling together.
• Sour Cream & Green Onions (for garnish): Cool, creamy, and fresh—the perfect finish.

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How To Make the Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Filling Base

In your cast iron skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Stir in onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Add taco seasoning, corn, beans, and diced tomatoes. Simmer 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the beef mixture while it’s still warm so it melts right into the filling.

Step 3: Layer the Cornbread Topping

In a separate bowl, prepare your cornbread mix according to package directions. Pour gently over the beef and cheese layer, spreading evenly without mixing it in.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Place the entire skillet in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Let it cool slightly before serving. Top with sour cream, salsa, and chopped green onions for that classic Texan flair.

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Serving and Storing Your Tamale Pie Casserole

Serve this casserole hot, right out of the skillet. It pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or some zesty coleslaw. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—just thaw and bake to restore that crispy top.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative and still absorbs the Tex-Mex flavors beautifully.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or add more beans and vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it the night before, store it in the fridge, and bake when ready. Just add 5 extra minutes to the bake time.

Is it spicy?

It has a mild kick, but you can control the heat by adjusting the taco seasoning or using mild diced tomatoes.

Can I use homemade cornbread mix?

Of course! A scratch-made cornbread layer brings even more flavor and customization.

What size skillet should I use?

A 10 to 12-inch cast iron skillet works best for even baking and that irresistible crispy edge.

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Want More Casserole Ideas?

If this Texas Tamale Pie Casserole made your weeknight easier, you’ll love these other crave-worthy casseroles:

• French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for deep, savory comfort.
• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole with layers of rich tomato sauce and cheesy bliss.
• Cheesy Rotel Ranch Queso for a spicy, creamy baked delight.
• Easy Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole that’s a full meal in one pan.
• Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta if you want your casserole with a twist of pasta and bold garlic.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest casserole board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add jalapeños for extra heat? Did you go classic with sour cream or try a spicy crema?

I love seeing how others make these comfort classics their own. Questions and twists are always welcome—let’s keep cooking delicious together.

Find more recipe inspiration on my Pinterest @Americanrecipesbyheart.

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