A hearty and flavorful tamale pie with a cheesy cornbread topping, perfect for a family dinner.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Always preheat the oven to ensure even cooking.
In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef for even cooking.
Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened.
Adding vegetables enhances the flavor and nutrition of the dish.
Stir in the taco seasoning and tomato sauce. Simmer until the mixture thickens slightly.
Simmering allows the flavors to meld together.
Pour the beef mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread it evenly.
Grease the dish to prevent sticking.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the beef mixture.
Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
Prepare the cornbread mix according to the package instructions and spread it over the cheese layer.
Spread the batter evenly to ensure uniform baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.
Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the cornbread; it should come out clean.
Let the tamale pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with sour cream or taco sauce.
Allowing the dish to cool slightly makes it easier to serve.