This Crockpot Tamale Pie is a hearty and filling dish that’s perfect for a frugal family meal. It’s quick to prepare and cooks effortlessly in the slow cooker, making it ideal for busy days. The combination of ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a cornbread topping delivers a comforting and delicious meal.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz.) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (6 oz.) tomato paste
• 1 can (4 oz.) diced green chilies
• 1 packet (1.25 oz.) taco seasoning mix
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the cornbread topping:

• 3/4 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg, beaten

Directions:

1. Prepare the meat mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.
2. Combine ingredients in the slow cooker: Transfer the cooked meat and onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, diced green chilies, and taco seasoning mix. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook the filling: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-2.5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Prepare the cornbread batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix together the milk, vegetable oil, and beaten egg. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until moistened.
5. Add cheese and cornbread topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the meat mixture in the slow cooker. Carefully spread the cornbread batter over the cheese layer, ensuring even coverage.
6. Cook the tamale pie: Cover and cook on high for an additional 60-75 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is set and cooked through.
7. Serve: Once done, remove the lid and let the tamale pie sit for a few minutes before serving. Spoon into bowls and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 395
• Total Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 922mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 8g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 26g

The Convenience of Slow Cooking

One of the biggest advantages of preparing Crockpot Tamale Pie is the convenience of using a slow cooker. With minimal hands-on cooking, the ingredients are combined and left to simmer, giving you time to focus on other tasks. Unlike traditional tamales that require hours of assembly and steaming, this version achieves similar flavors without the extra effort. Additionally, using a crockpot ensures the meat remains tender, the beans soak up the spices, and the cornbread topping develops a perfect texture. Slow cooking also enhances the depth of the dish by infusing the flavors together. Spices from the taco seasoning penetrate the meat and vegetables, while the juices from the tomatoes and chilies create a savory sauce. The cornbread, which is added later in the cooking process, benefits from the steam of the slow cooker, resulting in a soft and fluffy texture that contrasts beautifully with the hearty filling.

Customizing Your Tamale Pie

Crockpot Tamale Pie is highly versatile, allowing for numerous ingredient substitutions and additions. Ground beef is the traditional protein choice, but ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter alternative. Vegetarians can substitute black beans or lentils to achieve a similar texture and flavor. For added spice, jalapeños or hot sauce can be incorporated into the filling, while a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions can provide a burst of freshness. You can also experiment with different cheeses depending on your preference. While cheddar cheese is often the go-to, a blend of Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese adds a bit of spice and creaminess. Additionally, adding corn kernels or diced bell peppers to the filling can provide an extra layer of texture and sweetness. For the cornbread topping, traditional cornmeal remains a staple, but adding a dash of honey or maple syrup can create a subtle sweetness that complements the savory filling. Some prefer incorporating a can of cream-style corn into the batter for added moisture and a richer corn flavor.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Crockpot Tamale Pie is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance the dining experience by pairing it with complementary sides. A crisp green salad with avocado and lime dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, meaty filling. Mexican rice, seasoned with tomatoes and cumin, is another excellent choice for a heartier meal. For a touch of creaminess, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of cilantro-lime crema on top of the tamale pie can elevate the dish. Consider serving this meal with traditional Mexican beverages like horchata or agua fresca for an authentic touch. Alternatively, a cold Mexican lager or margarita pairs well with the savory flavors of the pie.

The Nutritional Benefits

While Crockpot Tamale Pie is undeniably a comfort dish, it also offers some notable nutritional benefits. Ground beef provides a significant source of protein and iron, while beans contribute fiber and plant-based protein. Tomatoes and chilies supply antioxidants and vitamins, supporting overall health. The cornbread topping, made with cornmeal, is a gluten-free grain that provides essential nutrients such as fiber and magnesium. To reduce the fat content, lean ground beef or ground turkey can be used. Additionally, using reduced-fat cheese and low-sodium beans can make the dish healthier without compromising on flavor. If you are following a low-carb diet, consider reducing the cornbread topping or replacing it with a low-carb alternative.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Crockpot Tamale Pie is an excellent option for meal prep as it stores and reheats well. Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When reheating, simply microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. To make the preparation even easier, consider cooking the ground beef and assembling the filling ingredients in advance. Store the mixture in the refrigerator overnight and add it to the slow cooker in the morning. The cornbread batter can also be prepped ahead and stored in the fridge until it’s time to cook.

Conclusion

Crockpot Tamale Pie is the ultimate combination of ease, flavor, and comfort. It captures the essence of traditional tamales while simplifying the cooking process with the convenience of a slow cooker. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish brings together bold, savory flavors in a satisfying one-pot meal. With its versatile ingredients and minimal preparation time, it’s a practical and delicious choice for busy households.