Easy Tamale Pie is a delicious meal featuring ground beef, tomatoes, onions, corn and Mexican spices, topped with a cornbread-style crust.
Preheat oven to 425°F. Lightly grease a 9" deep dish pie pan or a 9" x 9" baking dish
Heat oil in a large skillet on medium heat. Add ground beef and onions: cook until meat is browned and fully cooked, stirring often Remove/discard accumulated grease.
Add corn, tomatoes, salt, chili powder, and ground cumin to meat, stirring to combine. **If adding optional ingredients (olives, green chilis, jalapeños), do it now.** Cook (uncovered) on medium-low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; set skillet aside.
In a large bowl, whisk cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, milk, and egg together until smooth and lump-free.
Spoon beef mixture to greased pie pan, spreading evenly. Slowly pour cornmeal batter over the top until meat filling is covered NOTE: You MAY have a few Tablespoons of extra batter left, depending on dish you use. You do not have to use it all. Just make sure pie dish is full and batter covers the filling!
Bake at 425°F. for 25-30 minutes. It's done when a toothpick inserted into the top/middle comes out clean, and top crust is nicely browned. **NOTE: If desired (OPTIONAL), add grated cheese on top of the pie halfway through baking time.
When tamale pie is finished baking, remove it from oven; transfer to a wire rack. Let cool 5-6 minutes before slicing. Once slightly cooled, cut pie into 8 wedges. Transfer slices to individual plates, and serve. Enjoy!
Easy Tamale Pie https://www.thegratefulgirlcooks.com/easy-tamale-pie/