Hearty Layered Tamale Bake

General Added: 10/6/2024

This Hearty Layered Tamale Bake is a delightful twist on a family classic, inspired by my Great Grandma Ce's original meat pie recipe. By incorporating layers of savory seasoned beef, fresh corn, and gooey melted cheese between soft corn tortillas, this dish becomes an enticing casserole that kids and adults alike will love. Bursting with flavor and textures, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, bringing a taste of tradition to your table with a modern layer of comfort.

Servings

350

Calories

Ingredients

Ingredients

olive oil 3 teaspoons (none)

chopped onion 1/4 cup (chopped)

ground beef 1 lb (none)

taco seasoning 1 (1 1/2 ounce) package (none)

water 3/4 cup (none)

canned crushed tomatoes 2 1/2 cups (none)

corn kernels 1 1/2 cups (drained if canned)

yellow cornmeal 2/3 cup (none)

corn tortillas 8 (none)

shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese 3 cups (shredded)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until tender and translucent, about 5 minutes—make sure not to let them brown.

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook thoroughly until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, and then drain excess fat.

Stir in the taco seasoning along with 3/4 cup of water. Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and is no longer runny.

Incorporate the crushed tomatoes, corn, and cornmeal into the seasoned meat. Mix until well combined.

Take a 9-inch round Pyrex or well-greased metal baking dish. Start by layering 4 corn tortillas on the bottom, spreading them out to cover the base completely.

Pour half of the meat mixture over the tortillas, ensuring an even layer. Follow with half of the shredded cheese.

Repeat the layering process by adding the remaining 4 tortillas on top, the rest of the meat mixture, and finish with the remaining shredded cheese.

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing into 8 pieces, as you would a pie.

Serve warm and enjoy with your favorite toppings!

Nutrition Information

16.5g

Fat

32.5g

Carbs

17.5g

Protein

tamale pie layered casserole comfort food family recipe quick dinner one-pan meal kid-friendly beef casserole

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