Are you looking for a comforting and flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than our Pulled Pork Tamale Casserole! This Tex-Mex inspired recipe combines the smoky goodness of pulled pork with the rich flavors of black beans, sweet corn, and spicy green chile peppers, all topped with a golden layer of cornbread and gooey melted cheese. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into a delicious culinary adventure!
Ingredients
Meat:
- 1 1/4 lbs Pulled pork, cooked
Produce:
- 1/2 cup Black beans
- 1/2 cup Corn, frozen
- 1 (4.5 ounce) can Green chile peppers
- 1/2 Onion, medium
Refrigerated:
- 1 Egg
Condiments:
- 1/3 cup Black olives
Baking & Spices:
- 1 (15 ounce) package Cornbread mix
Dairy:
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 3 oz Cheddar cheese
- 2/3 cup Milk
Prepared:
- 1 (10 ounce) can Enchilada sauce, red
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the onion and slice the black olives. Drain the canned green chile peppers.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pulled pork, black beans, corn, green chile peppers, chopped onion, and sliced black olives. Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Cornbread Topping: In another mixing bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to the package instructions, using the egg, butter, and milk. Mix until smooth.
- Layer the Casserole: Pour the prepared cornbread batter over the pulled pork mixture in the baking dish, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the cornbread layer. Then, pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions if desired. Enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the spice level of the dish by using mild, medium, or hot enchilada sauce, and choose green chile peppers according to your preference for heat.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add additional vegetables such as diced bell peppers, jalapenos, or tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cornbread mix and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use homemade pulled pork instead of store-bought? A: Absolutely! Homemade pulled pork adds an extra layer of flavor to this dish. Just make sure your pulled pork is cooked and seasoned to your liking before incorporating it into the casserole.
Q: Is it okay to use canned corn instead of frozen? A: Yes, canned corn can be used as a substitute for frozen corn in this recipe. Just be sure to drain it well before adding it to the casserole.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply bake it according to the instructions when you’re ready to serve.
Keto Version
For a keto-friendly version of this recipe, you can make a few substitutions:
- Replace Cornbread: Instead of using a traditional cornbread mix, make a low-carb cornbread using almond flour or coconut flour.
- Skip the Corn: Omit the corn or substitute it with a low-carb vegetable such as diced bell peppers or zucchini.
- Check Enchilada Sauce: Ensure the enchilada sauce you use is keto-friendly and doesn’t contain added sugars.
Low Carb Version
To make a low-carb version of this casserole, follow these modifications:
- Use Low-Carb Veggies: Increase the amount of low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and green chile peppers while reducing the amount of beans and corn.
- Choose Low-Carb Cheese: Opt for a low-carb cheese option such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack instead of cheddar cheese.
In conclusion, our Pulled Pork Tamale Casserole is a mouthwatering combination of tender pulled pork, flavorful spices, and comforting cornbread. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this Tex-Mex-inspired dish is sure to be a hit. With its layers of savory goodness and customizable ingredients, it’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of comfort with every bite!
