Mom’s Tamale Pie is a comforting and flavorful casserole dish that combines the savory flavors of ground beef, vegetables, and a cornmeal-based topping. This hearty and satisfying meal has a rich history and is often cherished as a beloved family recipe. With layers of seasoned beef, corn, tomatoes, and cheese sandwiched between creamy grits, Mom’s Tamale Pie offers a delightful fusion of Tex-Mex and comfort food flavors.

The history of Tamale Pie can be traced back to early American cuisine, particularly in the Southwest region where Mexican and American culinary traditions blend. It is believed to have originated as a variation of traditional tamales, a popular dish in Mexican cuisine. The pie form of this dish made it more convenient and accessible to prepare and serve, thus gaining popularity in American homes.

Mom’s Tamale Pie is a recipe that has likely been passed down through generations, loved and cherished by family members. It carries memories of shared meals, family gatherings, and the comforting taste of home. The blend of spices, ground beef, and cornmeal creates a nostalgic and satisfying dish that is both familiar and delicious.

PREP: 25 MIN.

BAKE: 20 MIN.

MAKES: 12 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 large green pepper, chopped
• 1 can (15¼ ounces) whole kernel corn, undrained
• 1½ cups chopped fresh tomatoes
• 5 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 envelope chili seasoning
• 1½ teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 6 cups cooked grits (prepared with butter and salt)
• 1½ teaspoons chili powder, divided
• 1½ cups (6 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Add the undrained whole kernel corn, chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, chili seasoning, sugar, garlic powder, basil, and oregano. Cook and stir the mixture until heated through. Keep it warm.
2. Spread half of the cooked grits in a greased 3-quart baking dish. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of chili powder over the grits. Top with the beef mixture and shredded cheddar cheese. Pipe or dollop the remaining grits around the edge of the dish. Sprinkle the remaining chili powder on top.
3. Bake the Tamale Pie, uncovered, at 325°F for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.
4. Allow the flavors of Mom’s Tamale Pie to come together as it bakes in the oven. Serve this comforting dish as a main course, accompanied by a fresh salad or some Mexican-inspired sides such as guacamole, salsa, or sour cream. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Customizable toppings: While the recipe calls for shredded cheddar cheese as the topping, feel free to customize it to your liking. You can add other types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses, to create a more flavorful and melty topping. Additionally, you can garnish the finished pie with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or diced avocado to add freshness and a pop of color.
• Spice it up: If you prefer a spicier Tamale Pie, you can adjust the level of heat by adding additional chili powder or hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat. Adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences to make the dish as mild or as spicy as you desire.