Oklahoma Tamale Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 pound mild pork sausage
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (15-ounce) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14-ounce) corn, drained
• 1 can (10-ounce) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (10-ounce) tamales, halved

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the beef, sausage, onion, and bell pepper until the meat is no longer pink. Drain off the fat.
3. Stir in the garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Spread the meat mixture in the prepared baking dish. Top with the halved tamales.
6. Bake for 25 minutes or until the tamales are lightly browned.

Interesting Facts

• The tamale casserole was created in Oklahoma in the late 19th century.
• The original recipe used ground beef and pork, but other meats such as chicken or turkey can be substituted.
• This dish can be served with a variety of sides, including refried beans, Spanish rice, or guacamole.