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Close-up of Easy Tamale Casserole in a cast iron skillet topped with melted cheese and cilantro

Easy Tamale Casserole

This Easy Tamale Casserole is a time-saving dish that combines savory ground beef, beans, and a delightful cornbread topping, making it the best tamale casserole for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 (15 ounce) cans pinto beans, rinsed and drained
  • 2 (15 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can cream-style corn
  • 1 (6 ounce) box cornbread mix
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Stir in the chopped onion and cook for 1 minute, then immediately remove from the heat. Mix in the pinto beans and crushed tomatoes until well combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream-style corn, cornbread mix, and egg until smooth. Spread this batter evenly over the beef mixture in the skillet.
  5. Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese on top.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the cornbread is set in the middle.
  7. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

Optional Upgrades: Toss in chili powder or cumin to add smoky depth, or sprinkle chopped cilantro on top after baking for a fresh finish.