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A savory Texas Tamale Pie cooked to perfection, showcasing its golden crust.

Spicy Green Chile Texas Tamale Pie

This tamale pie recipe combines a zesty green chile and beef filling with a fluffy, cheesy masa topping, baked to golden perfection. It's a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or a casual gathering.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 8 slices
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • large bowl

Ingredients
  

For the Savory Meat Filling:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 lean)
  • 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 0.5 cup beef broth
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 oz) can corn drained
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
  • diced jalapeños 1-2 (or serrano peppers)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For Cheesy Masa Topping:

  • 1 cup masa harina
  • 1 cup chicken broth warm
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 0.25 cup melted lard
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 1.5 cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese

Instructions
 

Prepare the Meat Filling:

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and diced jalapeños, cooking until softened, then stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  • Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up and cooking until browned, then drain any excess grease.
  • Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  • Stir in black beans and corn, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes.

Preheat Oven & Prep Dish:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

Prepare Masa Topping:

  • In a large bowl, combine masa harina, warm chicken broth, milk, melted lard, baking powder, and salt, mixing until a soft, spreadable dough forms.
  • Gently fold in 1.5 cups of shredded Pepper Jack cheese.

Assemble & Bake:

  • Pour the hot meat filling into the prepared baking dish. Carefully dollop spoonfuls of the masa topping over the meat filling, then gently spread it to cover.
  • Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the masa topping is firm, slightly puffed, and light golden brown.
  • Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For an extra kick, add more jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat filling. Ensure the masa topping is evenly spread to create a good seal over the filling, preventing it from drying out. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.