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Low Carb Tamale Pie (Hearty, Savory, and Comfort Food Without the Corn)
Isla Marie

Low Carb Tamale Pie

A hearty, low-carb casserole with seasoned ground beef and a cheesy almond flour topping. Bold, comforting flavors without the traditional cornmeal crust.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex Inspired
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • cups shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • 9×9-inch baking dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step 1. Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
Step 2. Brown the Beef
  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until fully browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3. Build the Filling
  1. Add onion to the beef and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cook briefly. Add tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4. Assemble the Base
  1. Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 5. Make the Topping
  1. In a bowl, mix almond flour, eggs, shredded cheese, and baking powder until combined.
Step 6. Add the Topping
  1. Spread the topping evenly over the beef layer.
Step 7. Bake
  1. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the topping is set and lightly golden.
Step 8. Rest and Serve
  1. Let the pie rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Video

Notes

  • Simmer the beef mixture to remove excess moisture.
  • Almond flour replaces cornmeal for a low-carb structure.
  • Letting the pie rest helps it slice cleanly.
  • Reheats well and stores up to 4 days refrigerated.