Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

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A bubbling casserole dish filled with tamale pie brings the heart of Texas right to your table. This comfort food favorite layers spicy beef, sweet cornbread, and melty cheese in one rich and satisfying bake. Every bite is bold and flavorful, with a texture that ranges from creamy to crumbly to crunchy.

What makes this dish shine is its simplicity and soulfulness. It doesn’t need fancy ingredients to be impressive. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a meal that feels like a hug in casserole form. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a make-ahead dinner option, this recipe deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

If you’re into savory, cheesy, Tex-Mex inspired flavors, this casserole will hit the spot. It’s easy to prep, super hearty, and always a crowd-pleaser. The cornbread topping gets golden and slightly crisp while soaking up just enough of the beefy juices underneath to stay moist and flavorful. It’s a warm, one-dish wonder that freezes well and reheats like a dream.

Can I Use Store-Bought Cornbread Mix for the Topping?

Yes! While a homemade cornbread batter brings a more personal touch, store-bought mixes like Jiffy work beautifully and save time. If you’re in a pinch or just want to speed up prep, a boxed mix will still bake up golden, fluffy, and slightly sweet—a perfect contrast to the bold meat filling.

Ingredients for the Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

A good tamale pie is all about layers of flavor and texture. This recipe is built on familiar ingredients, each playing an important role.

• Ground beef: Forms the hearty base and brings protein-rich flavor.
• Onion: Adds aromatic depth and sweetness as it cooks down.
• Garlic: Lends bold, savory notes that boost the entire dish.
• Taco seasoning: Infuses the meat with warm spices and a little kick.
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies: Gives a saucy, slightly spicy base layer.
• Canned corn: Brings a pop of sweetness and color.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey pockets of goodness.
• Cornbread mix: Bakes into a fluffy, golden crust that tops everything off.
• Egg and milk: Help bring the cornbread batter together.

How To Make the Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Filling

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s halfway cooked, add the onion and garlic, and cook until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and canned corn. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors blend.

Step 2: Prep the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the meat mixture into the dish and smooth it into an even layer. Sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 3: Make the Cornbread Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the cornbread mix, egg, and milk until just combined. Pour the batter over the cheese and gently spread it to cover the surface.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Bake uncovered for about 25–30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve and Store This Casserole

This Texas Tamale Pie Casserole makes a generous 6 to 8 servings, making it a smart pick for families or meal prep. Serve it hot from the oven with a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of fresh avocado for contrast. The leftovers are just as good the next day—simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

For storage, let the casserole cool completely. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Texas Tamale Pie Casserole?

Classic Guacamole

A creamy, citrusy dip like guacamole is the ultimate match to the spiced layers of tamale pie.

Mexican Street Corn

Elote-style corn with cotija, lime, and mayo adds a tangy, cheesy bite to your plate.

Cilantro Lime Rice

The brightness of lime and freshness of cilantro are perfect for balancing the richness of the casserole.

Black Bean Salad

A chilled black bean salad adds a cool, crunchy texture that complements the warm, baked casserole.

Pickled Jalapeños

A sharp, spicy element like pickled jalapeños provides just the kick to elevate each bite.

Tortilla Chips and Salsa

Keep things classic with a bowl of crispy chips and your favorite red or green salsa.

Sautéed Peppers and Onions

Quickly cooked peppers and onions bring more Tex-Mex flair and a bit of crunch.

Fresh Garden Salad

Sometimes a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is all you need to round things out.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If this hearty pie has you dreaming of other baked wonders, try these delicious ideas next:

• White Chicken Enchilada Casserole for creamy, cheesy comfort.
• Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole with old-school flavor.
• French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for something deeply savory.
• Chicken Biscuit Casserole when you’re craving Southern charm.
• Mexican White Trash Casserole with irresistible layers of flavor.

Save This Recipe 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 use ground turkey or stick with beef? Did you sneak in jalapeños or black beans?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better together.

Explore comforting and crowd-pleasing dinners on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and uncover your next go-to favorite!

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