Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious! Our Easy Crockpot Tamale Pie is a flavor-packed meal that brings the vibrant tastes of Mexican cuisine right to your dinner table. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a hands-off cooking process, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker works its magic. This hearty recipe combines seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, and a fluffy cornbread topping, all smothered in gooey cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Dive into this recipe and discover why it’s a must-try for any home cook!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 package cornbread mix
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your slow cooker by lightly greasing the interior with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain any excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning to the ground beef and stir thoroughly to coat the meat evenly.
- Transfer the seasoned ground beef to the crockpot.
- Layer the drained black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes over the ground beef in the crockpot.
- In a separate mixing bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions, typically by combining the mix with eggs and milk.
- Pour the prepared cornbread batter evenly over the meat and vegetable mixture in the crockpot.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the cornbread batter.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6 hours, or until the cornbread is fully cooked and the edges are golden brown.
- Before serving, let the tamale pie rest for 10-15 minutes to allow it to set.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or additional cheese.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can brown the ground beef and prepare the taco seasoning in advance. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the dish.
- Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and heat.
- Layering Matters: Ensure that you layer the ingredients in the correct order—starting with the meat, followed by the beans, corn, and tomatoes—so that the flavors meld beautifully during cooking.
- Cornbread Consistency: When preparing the cornbread mix, follow the package instructions carefully for the best results. A well-mixed batter will rise perfectly in the slow cooker.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the tamale pie to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.
- Garnish for Flavor: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or additional shredded cheese just before serving.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, they make for a delicious lunch the next day. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick meal that packs a flavorful punch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 65mg
