Beef Tamale Casserole

As a comfort food lover, I can’t help but rave about my personal favorite, Beef Tamale Casserole. This dish has a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy evenings spent with family. The aroma of savory beef and spices fills the air, instantly transporting me to a warm kitchen during fall. It’s the perfect dish to share with loved ones, bringing together the rich flavors of traditional tamales in a unique casserole form. I still remember the first time I made it; the joy on my family’s faces as they took their first bites was priceless. Each layer is packed with deliciousness, making it a go-to recipe for any gathering or simply to satisfy my craving for something hearty.

Shopping List for Beef Tamale Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients is key to a successful Beef Tamale Casserole. Each component plays a vital role in creating the rich tapestry of flavors that define this dish. The essentials include fresh vegetables, hearty beef, and spices, combined with cornbread for a delightful texture. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

• ½ cup cornmeal – The base of our cornbread, providing a delicious, slightly sweet flavor.
• 2 tablespoons sugar – A touch of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder – Helps our cornbread rise beautifully.
• 1 egg – Acts as a binding agent for the cornbread mixture.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted) – Adds richness and moisture to the dish.
• ⅓ cup buttermilk – Contributes to the tenderness of the cornbread.
• 14.75 ounces cream style corn (1 can) – Adds moisture and a lovely corn flavor.
• 4.5 ounces diced green chiles (1 can) – Introduces a gentle kick of heat.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing our beef and vegetables.
• 1 pound ground beef – The heartiness of this dish comes from the succulent beef.
• 1 large onion (chopped) – Provides a sweet and savory flavor base.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced) – Adds depth and aroma.
• 1 teaspoon cumin (ground) – A warm spice that complements the beef.
• ¼ teaspoon chipotle powder – Brings a smoky heat to the dish.
• ½ teaspoon chili powder – For a flavorful punch.
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste) – Essential for flavor adjustment.
• ¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste) – Adds a touch of warmth.
• 10 ounces enchilada sauce (1 can) – Provides a rich, savory layer.
• 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese (shredded) – Melts beautifully, adding creaminess.
• 1 tablespoon cilantro (chopped) – A fresh finish to the casserole.
• Avocado (optional) – A creamy topping that complements the flavors.
• Jalapeno pepper (sliced, optional) – For those who prefer an extra kick.

The Process for Making Beef Tamale Casserole

Making Beef Tamale Casserole is a rewarding experience, as it fills your kitchen with enticing aromas. Follow these steps to create a delicious meal that everyone will love.

1. Preheat your oven to 400℉. This ensures that your cornbread bakes evenly and achieves a lovely golden color.

2. In a medium-sized bowl, add the cornmeal, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps.

3. Next, add the egg, butter, and buttermilk into the bowl. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

4. Now it’s time to stir in the creamed corn and diced green chiles. Mix until everything is well incorporated, creating a thick batter.

5. Pour the cornbread mixture into a large skillet or a 9×9 inch baking pan. Spread it out evenly, ensuring there are no gaps. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.

6. While the cornbread is baking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook until browned, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5 minutes.

7. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, chipotle powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the beef. Stir well, cooking until the onion is softened, roughly 3 to 5 minutes.

8. Pour half of the enchilada sauce into the beef mixture and stir to combine. This adds a rich flavor to the beef.

9. When the cornbread is ready, take it out of the oven and poke holes in it with a fork or the end of a wooden spoon. This allows the sauce to seep through and infuse the cornbread with flavor.

10. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the cornbread, spreading it evenly. Next, layer the beef mixture over the sauce and top with shredded cheese.

11. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned on top.

12. Once finished, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with cilantro and your choice of toppings like avocado or sliced jalapeno.

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to give your Beef Tamale Casserole a twist, here are some fun ideas to consider!

• Storage: To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Just be sure to tightly seal it and it can last up to 6 months.
• Pairing: Serve with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses to change the flavor profile, like cheddar or a spicy pepper jack.
• Add Beans: Incorporate black or pinto beans into the beef mixture for added protein and fiber.
• Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by adding more chipotle powder or jalapenos for those who enjoy heat.

Best Served With

Serving Beef Tamale Casserole can be as fun as making it! Here are some fantastic ideas:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of the casserole.
• Rice: Serve this dish alongside fluffy rice, which complements the flavors well and makes for a filling meal.
• Guacamole: A dollop of guacamole on top adds creaminess and balances the spice.
• Sour Cream: Top with a spoonful of sour cream for a cooling contrast to the heat.
• Mexican Street Corn: This sweet and savory side dish enhances the overall experience.
• Ideal for Gatherings: Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, where everyone can dig in and enjoy.

FAQ

Conclusion

Beef Tamale Casserole is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its layers of flavor and hearty ingredients make it a satisfying choice for family meals or gatherings. I encourage you to try making it for your next dinner. It’s an experience you’ll cherish, and I bet your family will be asking for seconds!

Beef Tamale Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, Beef Tamale Casserole is a delightful blend of seasoned ground beef, savory spices, and creamy cheese, all baked atop moist cornbread. It's an easy weeknight dinner that brings the flavors of traditional tamales into one delicious dish. Make it tonight for a hearty meal the whole family will love!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ½ cup Cornmeal
• 2 tablespoons Sugar
• ½ teaspoon Salt
• 1 tablespoon Baking Powder
• 1 Egg
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted)
• ⅓ cup Buttermilk
• 14.75 ounces Cream Style Corn (1 can)
• 4.5 ounces Diced Green Chiles (1 can)
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1 pound Ground Beef
• 1 large Onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Cumin (ground)
• ¼ teaspoon Chipotle Powder
• ½ teaspoon Chili Powder
• ½ teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon Pepper (or to taste)
• 10 ounces Enchilada Sauce (1 can)
• 2 cups Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded)
• 1 tablespoon Cilantro (chopped)
• Avocado (optional)
• Jalapeno Pepper (sliced, optional)

Equipment

• 12-inch Cast Iron Skillet

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400℉. This ensures that your cornbread bakes evenly and achieves a lovely golden color.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, add the cornmeal, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps.
3. Next, add the egg, butter, and buttermilk into the bowl. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Now it’s time to stir in the creamed corn and diced green chiles. Mix until everything is well incorporated, creating a thick batter.
5. Pour the cornbread mixture into a large skillet or a 9×9 inch baking pan. Spread it out evenly, ensuring there are no gaps. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.
6. While the cornbread is baking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook until browned, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5 minutes.
7. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, chipotle powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the beef. Stir well, cooking until the onion is softened, roughly 3 to 5 minutes.
8. Pour half of the enchilada sauce into the beef mixture and stir to combine. This adds a rich flavor to the beef.
9. When the cornbread is ready, take it out of the oven and poke holes in it with a fork or the end of a wooden spoon. This allows the sauce to seep through and infuse the cornbread with flavor.
10. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the cornbread, spreading it evenly. Next, layer the beef mixture over the sauce and top with shredded cheese.
11. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned on top.
12. Once finished, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with cilantro and your choice of toppings like avocado or sliced jalapeno.

Notes

• Tip 1: To save time, you can use a boxed cornbread mix for this recipe.
• Tip 2: I’ve made this several times with different types of cheeses. Monterey Jack cheese is good, you can also use a blend of cheddar cheese, or the Tex Mex blend.
• Tip 3: This entire casserole can be popped in the freezer, as long as it’s tightly sealed. It can be stored this way for up to 6 months and just needs to thaw out overnight in the fridge when ready to eat.
• Tip 4: Just pop it in the oven set at 350 F degrees for 30 minutes when ready to enjoy!
• Tip 5: Nutritional information does not include any of the optional toppings.

Previous PostBlackberry Scones

Next Post Braised Beef Brisket

Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.