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Homemade Easy Tamale Casserole photo

Easy Tamale Casserole

This Easy Tamale Casserole is a breeze to prepare and packed with savory flavors!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

  • 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion finely minced
  • 1 small bell pepper seeded and minced
  • 1 small jalapeño seeded and finely minced
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon Homemade Taco Seasoning or store-bought taco seasoning
  • 4 ounces diced green chiles
  • 16 ounces tomato sauce
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels
  • 1 small lime juiced
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup yellow or white cornmeal
  • 1 tablespoon aluminum-free baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 cup milk or buttermilk
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted and cooled or canola oil
  • 2 large eggs

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a little olive oil.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the extra virgin olive oil. Once hot, add the minced onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  • Stir in the taco seasoning, diced green chiles, tomato sauce, frozen corn, and lime juice. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat.
  • In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and honey. In another bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, and eggs. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  • Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Pour the cornbread batter over the cheese and beef mixture, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
  • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cornbread comes out clean.
  • Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will help it set up a bit before serving. Slice into squares and enjoy warm!

Notes

  • This casserole is forgiving—add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • If you love heat, leave some seeds in the jalapeño or add your favorite hot sauce.
  • Top with chopped cilantro or green onions for freshness before serving.
Keyword Casserole, Comfort Food, Easy