Easy Tamale Casserole 🌽🌶️

by

All the flavors of tamales—without the work! This cheesy, saucy, cornbread-based bake comes together in under an hour for a hearty weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This

✅ Jiffy mix shortcut – No masa or steaming required!
🧀 Cheesy, saucy layers – Like a deconstructed tamale pie.
⚡ Feeds a crowd – Perfect for potlucks or meal prep.
🌮 Customizable toppings – Make it your own!

Ingredients

*(Serves 6-8)*

Cornbread Base

  • 2 boxes (8.5oz each) Jiffy Cornbread Mix

  • 2 large eggs

  • ⅔ cup milk

Beef Layer

  • 2 lbs ground beef (or turkey/chicken)

  • 2 (10oz) cans red enchilada sauce, divided

  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ cup water

Toppings

  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend

  • Optional: Sour cream, diced onions, avocado, salsa

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bake the Cornbread

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13″ pan with cooking spray.

  • Mix Jiffy mix, eggs, and milk. Pour into pan and bake 20-25 mins until set.

  • Poke holes in the warm cornbread with a spoon handle. Pour 1 can enchilada sauce over top.

2. Cook the Beef

  • Brown ground beef with salt. Drain fat.

  • Stir in taco seasoning + water, simmer 5 mins.

  • Add remaining can of enchilada sauce and heat through.

3. Layer & Bake

  • Spread beef mixture over cornbread. Top with cheese.

  • Bake 6-8 mins until cheese melts.

4. Serve

  • Let cool 5 mins, then add toppings like:

    • 🥑 Sliced avocado

    • 🧅 Diced onions

    • 🥄 Sour cream

Pro Tips

🔸 For spicier flavor: Use hot enchilada sauce or add diced jalapeños to beef.
🔸 Vegetarian option: Swap beef for black beans + sautéed veggies.
🔸 Make ahead: Assemble (without cheese), refrigerate, and bake before serving.

Storage & Reheating

  • Fridge: Up to 3 days covered.

  • Freeze: Wrap tightly for 1 month (thaw before reheating).

  • Reheat: Microwave or bake at 350°F until warmed through.

Serving Ideas

  • Side dishes: Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad.

  • Game day feed: Cut into squares for easy serving.

  • Kid-friendly: Serve with extra cheese and mild salsa.

Final Thought

This tamale casserole is comfort food at its easiest—hearty, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Thanks to Dawn’s Kitchen for the inspiration!

More Mexican-Inspired Bakes:
🧀 Chile Relleno Casserole
🌮 Taco Pasta Bake
🍚 Arroz con Pollo Casserole

Leave a Comment