Tamale Pie Recipe

This Tamale Pie recipe puts a delicious spin on a classic comfort food! Savory rice, beans, and corn are simmered in a rich tomato sauce, then topped with creamy polenta and baked to golden perfection. A hearty and flavorful meal perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for a taste of Mexican-inspired goodness!

Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 75 mins

Calories 177.5 kcal

Protein 6g

Rating Be the first

Recipe Actions

Share this recipe:

Recipe Author

The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Tamale Pie

Onion
2 tablespoons olive oil
Cooked Rice
Chili Bean
1 cup frozen corn
1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups polenta

Cook Smarter with Sous, Your Kitchen Companion

Missing an ingredient for this Tamale Pie? Need a perfect wine pairing or a healthy side dish idea? Don't guess—ask Sous! Your AI-powered sous-chef is ready to help you swap ingredients, adjust serving sizes, and discover flavor tips in seconds.

How to Make Tamale Pie

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté 1 medium onion, chopped, until softened (about 5 minutes).
Add 1 cup long-grain rice, 1 (15-ounce) can of beans (drained and rinsed), 1 cup frozen corn, 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes, 2 tablespoons chili powder, and 1 teaspoon salt to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has reduced slightly. Stir occasionally.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the rice mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish.
In a separate saucepan, prepare 2 cups of polenta according to package directions. Once cooked, spread the polenta evenly over the rice mixture.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the polenta is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.