Go Back
Pioneer Woman Tamale Pie Recipe

Pioneer Woman Tamale Pie Recipe

Olivia Brooks
Hearty, cheesy, and easy! Pioneer Woman Tamale Pie Recipe layers beef, corn, tomatoes, and cornmeal topping for a satisfying comfort food classic.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk and wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons.
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Aluminum foil (optional for baking)
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Filling:

  • 1 lb 450g ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh, frozen, or canned
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cornmeal Topping:

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/3 cup butter melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Optional Garnishes:

  • Sliced green onions
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Sour cream

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Add the diced onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, then add diced tomatoes, corn, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until flavors meld.

Step 3: Assemble the Filling

  • Pour the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spread it into an even layer so the topping will cover it smoothly later.

Step 4: Make the Cornmeal Topping

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. In another bowl, mix milk, melted butter, and egg. Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth. Stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese for extra cheesiness.

Step 5: Top the Beef

  • Spread the cornmeal mixture evenly over the beef filling. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top for a golden, melty crust.

Step 6: Bake the Tamale Pie

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, until the topping is golden and set. If the top browns too quickly, cover lightly with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

  • Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve warm and watch everyone dig in!

Notes

  • Use 80/20 ground beef for juiciness.
  • Drain canned tomatoes to avoid a watery filling.
  • Don’t overmix the cornmeal topping; it should remain light and fluffy.
  • If you want extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
  • Let the pie cool slightly before serving to set the topping.
Keyword Pioneer Woman Tamale Pie Recipe