Tamale Pie

📜 Collection: Gail Collection | ✍️ Attribution: Unknown | 📂 Category: Entrees A classic vintage tamale pie featuring seasoned ground round, corn, and olives topped with a savory cornmeal crust. Baked to golden perfection, this hearty casserole serves a crowd.


Prep TimeCook TimeInactive / Chill TimeYield / Servings
20 mins1 hour 5 minsNone6–8 servings

🔪 Key Equipment

  • Large pot or skillet
  • Greased casserole dish
  • Wooden spoon

Ingredients

MeasurementsIngredientsPrep / Notes
2 TablespoonsOilnull
1 CupOnionChopped
1 Large CanWhole Kernel Cornnull
1/2Green PepperChopped
2 TeaspoonsSaltnull
1 PoundGround Round Meatnull
1 CanRipe OlivesChopped
1/8 TeaspoonCayenne Peppernull
1 CupWaternull
1 Large CanMashed Up Tomatoesnull
1 CupYellow Cornmealnull

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat and Aromatics

  1. Cook the 1 pound ground round meat first in a skillet; drain any excess fat and set aside.
  2. In a large pot or skillet, cook the 1 cup onion in 2 tablespoons oil until softened.

Step 2: Simmer the Filling

  1. Add the cooked meat, 1 large can whole kernel corn, 1/2 green pepper, 1 large can mashed up tomatoes, 1 cup water, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the pot.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  3. Gradually stir in the 1 cup yellow cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened and fragrant. Towards the end of this cooking time, stir in the 1 can ripe olives.

Step 3: Bake

  1. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
  2. Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.

💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.


Original Recipe Scan

Original Handwritten Card