The Ultimate Tamale Casserole Recipe

A Comforting Family Favorite

When you’re craving the bold flavors of tamales but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this Tamale Casserole is the perfect solution! It’s an easy-to-make, one-dish meal that combines a fluffy cornbread base with a hearty, seasoned ground beef topping, all smothered in gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a casual gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tamale Casserole is perfect for anyone who loves Tex-Mex flavors but wants a shortcut to the traditional tamale-making process. Instead of wrapping individual tamales in corn husks, you’ll get all the delicious flavors in a simple, baked dish. It’s also:

  • Easy to make – Minimal prep and simple ingredients make this a stress-free meal.
  • Budget-friendly – Most ingredients are pantry staples or inexpensive grocery finds.
  • Customizable – Switch up the proteins, add heat, or adjust the toppings to your liking.
  • Great for leftovers – Perfect for meal prepping and reheating throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 (8.5 oz.) box Jiffy Cornbread Mix
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 (14.75 oz.) can creamed corn
  • 1 lb. lean ground beef, browned and drained
  • 1 (1 oz.) envelope taco seasoning
  • 1 (10 oz.) can enchilada sauce
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or your favorite!)
  • Toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, avocado, cilantro, jalapeños (optional)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowls – For combining the cornbread batter and beef mixture.
  • 8×8 baking dish – Greased to prevent sticking.
  • Skillet – For browning the ground beef.
  • Fork – To poke the cornbread layer for better sauce absorption.
  • Oven – Preheated to 350°F.
  • Spatula – For spreading layers evenly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cornbread Layer

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. In a medium bowl, stir together the cornbread mix, egg, sour cream, and creamed corn until well combined.
  3. Pour the mixture into a greased 8×8 baking dish and spread evenly.
  4. Bake for 30-40 minutes until lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Topping

  1. While the cornbread is baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
  2. Stir in the taco seasoning and enchilada sauce, mixing well to coat the beef.

Step 3: Assemble & Bake

  1. Once the cornbread is done, poke it all over with a fork to allow the flavors to soak in.
  2. Pour the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the cornbread layer.
  3. Top with shredded cheese.
  4. Return to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Add Toppings & Serve

  1. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
  2. Add your favorite toppings like sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, or jalapeños.
  3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

  • Protein Swap: Instead of beef, try shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even black beans for a vegetarian version.
  • Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños to the cornbread batter or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the beef mixture.
  • Cheese Choices: Use pepper jack for a little kick or cotija for an authentic Mexican touch.
  • Sauce Options: If you prefer green enchilada sauce over red, swap it in for a tangy twist.

Storage & Reheating Tips

How to Store

  • Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze individual portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat

  • Microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second increments until warmed through.
  • Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 325°F for 15 minutes.
  • Air Fryer: Warm at 350°F for about 5 minutes for a crispy top.

What to Serve with Tamale Casserole

  • Side Dishes: Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh corn salad pair perfectly.
  • Drinks: A cold margarita, horchata, or iced tea complements the dish well.
  • Dessert: Follow up with tres leches cake or churros for a sweet finish!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Tamale Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the fridge and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use homemade cornbread instead of Jiffy mix?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade cornbread, use your favorite recipe, but ensure it’s moist enough to mimic the texture of Jiffy mix.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Swap the Jiffy cornbread mix for a gluten-free cornbread mix, and check that your taco seasoning and enchilada sauce are gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a 9×13 baking dish and double all ingredients. Bake as directed but add an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Tamale Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings all the flavors of traditional tamales into an easy, no-fuss meal. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or prepping meals ahead of time, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation.

If you love this recipe, share it with friends and family and let us know your favorite variations in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious and easy-to-make meals straight to your inbox!

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