With all due apologies to those who take the time and serious effort to make real homemade tamales, this tamale and ground beef casserole is so quick ... See moreand easy to make, it's perfect for a weeknight dinner. In this video, Chef John will teach you how to make a simple tamale pie. The secret ingredient here is boxed cornbread mix, which you’ll develop into a batter to form the “pie” crust. Simply layer cheese, frozen corn, and a peppery ground beef mixture between the cornbread batter. The casserole comes out of the oven golden brown and wonderfully perfumed. It’s a delicious meal and sure-fire family favorite that makes excellent leftovers—if it lasts that long. Get Chef John's recipe for Tamale Pie.