BBQ tamale pie is a fun twist on the classic! It combines tasty BBQ meat with fluffy cornbread, all baked together for a delicious dish that’s great for sharing.
When you’re hungry and need something hearty, this pie hits the spot! I love adding cheese on top for that extra yum. Perfect for cozy nights or potlucks with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. You could easily swap in ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or chopped mushrooms instead!
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade. If you want a tangy kick, you can use a vinegar-based BBQ sauce. For a sweeter taste, opt for a sauce with more molasses or brown sugar.
Cornmeal: The cornbread topping is a must! If you have dietary restrictions, you can use a gluten-free cornmeal blend. For something different, try polenta for a creamier texture.
Black Beans: Besides black beans, any canned beans such as pinto or kidney beans work well. You could also use cooked chickpeas for a different flavor!
How Do You Ensure Your Cornbread Topping is Perfectly Cooked?
Making the cornbread topping a perfect golden brown can be tricky! Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking.
- Don’t overmix the cornbread batter; a few lumps are okay! This keeps it light and fluffy.
- Check for doneness with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
- If the top browns too quickly, cover it lightly with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
Letting it sit for a few minutes after baking helps the toppings set and makes serving easier. Enjoy!
BBQ Tamale Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions or fresh cilantro (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep, followed by 25-30 minutes of baking time. Once the pie comes out of the oven, let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. So, in total, you can expect to spend about 50 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Skillet:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your BBQ tamale pie bakes evenly and turns out perfectly golden on top.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned. Make sure to break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Add Vegetables:
Next, add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté these veggies for about 5 minutes, or until they’re softened and fragrant.
4. Mix in the Filling Ingredients:
Stir in the corn, black beans, barbecue sauce, chili powder, cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook this mixture for another 3-5 minutes to let all the flavors come together, then remove it from the heat.
5. Make the Cornbread Batter:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. This will be the base for your cornbread topping. In another bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, and egg. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix!
6. Assemble the Pie:
Spread the BBQ meat mixture evenly in a buttered baking dish or ovenproof skillet. Then, pour the cornbread batter over the top, gently spreading it to cover the filling.
7. Bake the Tamale Pie:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cornbread comes out clean.
8. Let It Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, let the pie sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set, making slicing easier. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for a nice pop of color!
Enjoy your hearty and delicious BBQ Tamale Pie! It’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or any occasion where comfort food is wanted!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want a vegetarian version, consider using lentils, chickpeas, or chopped mushrooms as a substitute.
What Can I Use Instead of Barbecue Sauce?
If you don’t have barbecue sauce on hand, you can mix together ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and a bit of apple cider vinegar for a quick alternative. Alternatively, a homemade sauce with molasses and spices can add a personal touch!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven at a low temperature to keep the cornbread nice and fluffy, or heat it in the microwave.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture and cornbread batter separately up to a day in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving for the freshest flavor!