Introduction to Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie
There’s something magical about a warm, hearty meal that brings everyone together, and my Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie does just that! This dish is a delightful blend of savory beef and a fluffy cornbread topping, making it the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. I love how quickly it comes together, allowing me to spend more time with my loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Trust me, once you serve this up, you’ll be the star of the dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie
This Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie is a game-changer for anyone who craves comfort food without the fuss. It’s quick to whip up, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup! You’ll love how it warms your heart and fills your belly, making it a family favorite in no time.
Ingredients for Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground beef (or turkey): This is the heart of the dish, providing a savory base. Ground turkey is a leaner option if you prefer.
- Olive oil: A splash of this golden liquid helps sauté the veggies and adds a lovely flavor.
- Onion: Diced onions bring sweetness and depth to the filling.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Red bell pepper: This adds a pop of color and sweetness, making the pie visually appealing.
- Black beans: These provide protein and a creamy texture, making the dish heartier.
- Corn kernels: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn adds a sweet crunch that complements the other ingredients.
- Diced tomatoes: They add moisture and a tangy flavor, balancing the richness of the beef.
- Tomato paste: This thickens the filling and intensifies the tomato flavor.
- Spices: Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy) create a warm, inviting flavor profile.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: This is the star of the show, adding creaminess and that cheesy goodness we all love.
- Cornmeal and all-purpose flour: These form the base of the cornbread topping, giving it that delightful texture.
- Sugar: Just a touch to balance the flavors in the cornbread.
- Baking powder: This helps the cornbread rise, making it fluffy and light.
- Milk: Adds moisture to the cornbread batter, ensuring it’s not too dry.
- Egg: This binds the cornbread together, giving it structure.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds richness to the cornbread, making it even more delicious.
- Garnish: Chopped green onions or cilantro add a fresh touch to the finished dish.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!
How to Make Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal that’s sure to impress!
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until they’re softened and fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute. Then, it’s time to introduce the ground beef (or turkey). Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s browned, about 6-8 minutes. This step is crucial, as it builds the savory base for your Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the meat is browned, stir in the tomato paste, drained diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous. Let everything simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens up nicely. The flavors will meld together, creating a mouthwatering filling!
Step 4: Prepare the Cornbread Batter
While the filling simmers, grab a mixing bowl. Whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine the milk, egg, and melted butter. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Finally, fold in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese for that extra cheesy goodness!
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the beef mixture evenly in the skillet, making sure it’s well-distributed. Then, pour the cornbread batter over the top, spreading it gently to cover the filling completely. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through. If you want an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle more cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking!
Tips for Success
- Use a cast-iron skillet for even cooking and a beautiful crust.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the pie set up nicely.
- Feel free to customize the spices to suit your taste—add more heat if you like!
- For a vegetarian version, swap the meat for extra beans or lentils.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, so make extra!
Equipment Needed
- Oven-safe skillet: A cast-iron skillet works best, but any oven-safe pan will do.
- Mixing bowls: Use two bowls for wet and dry ingredients; a large bowl is ideal.
- Whisk: A whisk helps combine ingredients smoothly; a fork can work in a pinch.
- Spoon or spatula: For stirring and spreading the filling and batter.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a mix of black beans, lentils, or quinoa for a hearty vegetarian dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra layer of heat.
- Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Southwestern Flair: Incorporate corn salsa or diced green chilies into the filling for a zesty southwestern touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- A side of guacamole adds a rich, buttery flavor.
- Enjoy with a chilled glass of iced tea or a fruity mocktail.
- Garnish with extra cilantro or green onions for a pop of color.
FAQs about Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie
As I’ve shared my love for this Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie, I often get questions from fellow home cooks. Here are some of the most common queries I’ve encountered:
Can I make Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and cornbread batter in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, assemble and pop it in the oven!
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works wonderfully. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives or a mix of beans for a vegetarian twist.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Trust me, it tastes even better the next day!
Can I freeze Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie?
Yes! This dish freezes well. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What sides pair well with Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie?
A fresh green salad, some guacamole, or a side of Mexican rice complement this dish beautifully. They add a nice balance to the hearty pie!
Final Thoughts
Making this Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The joy of watching my family dig into a warm, cheesy slice fills my heart with happiness. Each bite is a comforting hug, reminding us of cozy nights spent together. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this dish never fails to impress. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing this recipe as I do. So, roll up your sleeves and let the deliciousness unfold!
Print
Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie: A Must-Try Comfort Food!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cheesy Skillet Tamale Pie is a comforting dish that combines a savory beef filling with a delicious cornbread topping, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) diced tomatoes (drained)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (125 g) cornmeal
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and bell pepper, cook until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Mix in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and spices.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
- In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, and melted butter.
- Stir wet mixture into dry until combined. Fold in cheddar cheese.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the skillet.
- Pour cornbread batter over the top and spread evenly to cover.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until cornbread is golden and cooked through.
- Sprinkle with extra cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking if desired.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro.
- Serve hot, straight from the skillet.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Adjust the spices according to your heat preference.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
