Turkey Tamale Pie Recipe

Name: Turkey Tamale Pie
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground turkey; Salt; 1/4 cup chili powder, divided; 3 cups salsa; 2 4-ounce cans diced green chilies; 2 16-ounce cans pinto beans, undrained (mash 1 can of the beans); 2 2.25-ounce cans sliced black olives, drained; 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro, divided; 2 cups yellow cornmeal; 2 tsps. salt; 2 cups (8 ounces) grated sharp cheddar cheese

Servings: persons

2 pounds ground turkey
Salt
1/4 cup chili powder, divided
3 cups salsa
2 4-ounce cans diced green chilies
2 16-ounce cans pinto beans, undrained (mash 1 can of the beans)
2 2.25-ounce cans sliced black olives, drained
1 cup chopped fresh cilantro, divided
2 cups yellow cornmeal
2 tsps. salt
2 cups (8 ounces) grated sharp cheddar cheese

1
Heat two 12-inch ovenproof skillets or a large, heavy roasting pan (at least 14-by-10 inches) over two burners set at medium-high heat. Add turkey, lightly season with salt and cook, stirring, until it loses its raw color. Stir in 3 Tbs. of the chili powder, then the salsa, green chilies, beans, olives and 1/2 cup cilantro; simmer for about 5 minutes. (Meat can be made two days ahead; reheat before proceeding.)
2
Bring 6 cups of water, cornmeal, remaining 1 Tb. chili powder and 2 tsps. of salt to boil in a large pot, whisking frequently, until mixture thickens to mush consistency (like grits).
3
Pour mush over hot meat mixture, spreading with a spatula to completely cover. Sprinkle with cheese and remaining cilantro.
4
Adjust oven rack to middle position and turn on broiler. Broil tamale pie (s) until cheese melts and mush gets crusty, about 5 minutes. Let rest 5 minutes; serve.

793

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Preheat the oven fully and bake on the middle rack for the most even results.
Check for doneness a few minutes early — a toothpick in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool before slicing so it sets properly and holds its shape.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Feel free to swap in similar ingredients you already have on hand and adjust seasoning to taste.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 11 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 pounds ground turkey, Salt, 1/4 cup chili powder, divided, 3 cups salsa, and more.

Yes, Turkey Tamale Pie falls under the Baking & Desserts category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Turkey Tamale Pie

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions