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beef tamale casserole

Beef Tamale Casserole

This Beef Tamale Casserole, also called a Tamale Pie, is a quick and delicious weeknight dinner the whole family will love! Using boxed cornbread mix with ground beef and some pantry staples you can have a hearty meal on the table in no time!
4.94 from 46 votes
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Southwestern, TexMex
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • 10 inch cast iron skillet
  • mixing bowl and whisk
  • Cheese grater optional
  • Cutting board and knife

Ingredients
  

For the cornbread topping

  • 1 12 oz box cornbread mix can substitute with an 8.5 oz box (such as Jiffy) if desired
  • milk use amount listed on cornbread package
  • butter use amount listed on cornbread package
  • egg use amount listed on cornbread package
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

For the ground beef filling

  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 packet of taco seasoning I recommend Siete Food
  • 1 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes do not drain
  • 1 4 oz can of diced green chiles do not drain
  • 1 15.25 oz can of corn, drained
  • salt and pepper

Toppings (optional)

  • sour cream
  • salsa
  • sliced jalapenos
  • sliced avocado
  • hot sauce
  • sliced radishes

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
    In a large mixing bowl, mix the cornbread ingredients according to the package instructions. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and stir to combine. Set aside.
  • Drizzle a little olive oil in a 9-10 inch cast iron skillet and heat over medium high heat. Add in diced onions, bell pepper, garlic and ground beef. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper and cook until the meat is cooked through.
    Then stir in taco mix, diced tomatoes and green chiles. Bring to a boil then add in the corn and reduce to a simmer. Cook on low heat for about 5 minutes until thickened.
    Taste and add additional salt and pepper as needed.
  • Remove the skillet from the heat and pour the cornbread mixture over the top, spreading out in an even layer over the filling.
    Place in the oven and cook at 400 degrees F for 20-25 until the cornbread is cooked through and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
    Serve with sour cream and salsa or any other toppings you desire. Enjoy!
Keyword weeknight meal
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