Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

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Golden, cheesy, and packed with zesty flavor, this Texas Tamale Pie Casserole brings all the bold, Tex-Mex vibes straight to your kitchen. Imagine a hearty layer of seasoned ground beef, sweet corn, and black beans topped with a fluffy, golden cornbread crust baked to perfection. It’s the kind of soul-satisfying comfort food that disappears fast at any gathering.

This casserole is an ideal weeknight dinner when you’re craving something cozy but festive. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this dish delivers both flavor and practicality. Plus, it makes your house smell absolutely irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

It’s the best of both worlds: savory taco-style meat layered under warm, cheesy cornbread. This dish is:

• Incredibly easy to throw together with pantry staples
• A one-dish wonder — less cleanup, more time to relax
• Fully customizable with toppings like sour cream, salsa, or jalapeños
• Crowd-pleasing comfort food with Texan flair

What Kind of Cornbread Mix Should I Use?

A classic boxed cornbread mix like Jiffy works beautifully, especially if you like a slightly sweet balance to the savory meat filling. Want it more hearty? Use a stone-ground mix or make it from scratch. Either way, aim for a mix that bakes up tender but sturdy enough to hold up to all the juicy goodness underneath.

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Ingredients for the Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

Every ingredient in this casserole plays a key role in creating its layers of bold flavor and satisfying texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Ground Beef: The rich, meaty base of the casserole. Choose lean beef to avoid excess grease.
• Onion: Adds aromatic depth to the beef filling.
• Taco Seasoning: A quick way to infuse bold, Tex-Mex spices into the dish.
• Black Beans: Offer earthy flavor and hearty texture, plus plant-based protein.
• Corn Kernels: Bring pops of sweetness and balance out the spice.
• Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (like Rotel): Deliver tangy heat and moisture.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the cornbread topping for gooey, cheesy magic.
• Cornbread Mix: The fluffy golden crown that seals it all in.
• Egg & Milk (for the cornbread): Essential for binding and structure.
• Optional toppings: Sour cream, chopped tomatoes, green onions, cilantro — add as much or little as you like.

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How To Make the Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until fully browned. Drain any excess grease. Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes so the flavors blend.

Step 2: Prep the Cornbread Topping

In a bowl, mix your cornbread batter according to package directions, usually adding an egg and milk. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar for an extra cheesy kick.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spread the beef mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Pour the cornbread mixture over the top and gently spread it out. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake It to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before serving.

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How to Serve and Store Texas Tamale Pie Casserole

This casserole feeds about 6 to 8 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or small gathering. Serve it warm straight from the skillet with a big spoonful of sour cream and your favorite fresh toppings.

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

What to Serve With Texas Tamale Pie Casserole?

Fresh Garden Salad

A simple lettuce and tomato salad with lime vinaigrette balances the richness.

Cilantro-Lime Rice

A zesty rice side amplifies the Tex-Mex vibe.

Refried Beans

Creamy and classic — you can’t go wrong.

Guacamole & Chips

Fresh and crunchy with a creamy dip? Yes, please.

Roasted Veggies

Zucchini, peppers, and onions roasted with a sprinkle of cumin are a healthy side.

Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins

Double the cornbread for serious comfort.

Elote (Mexican Street Corn)

Sweet, spicy, and coated in cheese — a side that steals the show.

Sweet Tea or Agua Fresca

Balance out the spice with a chilled southern sipper.

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Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you’re into comforting, one-dish meals, you’ll fall in love with these other hearty favorites from our kitchen:

• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for indulgent pasta nights.
• Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for a cheesy, satisfying dinner.
• Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole when you’re craving creamy and comforting.
• Doritos Chicken Casserole to add crunch and spice to your dinner table.
• Cowboy Casserole — another hearty, meaty favorite.

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📌 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 go spicy with jalapeños or keep it mellow? Any fun toppings you tried?

I love seeing how you all put your spin on these recipes. Drop your tips or questions below, and don’t forget to follow along for more.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food dishes on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next cozy dinner obsession.

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