Pin It A hearty, comforting pie featuring savory beef and vegetables beneath a golden, slightly sweet cornbread crust—perfect for a cozy family dinner.
The first time I made this Cornbread Crusted Beef Pie, my family dug in before it even had the chance to cool completely—it was an instant hit. There's something about the tender beef filling and warm cornbread on top that feels like a big culinary hug at the end of the day.
Ingredients
- Ground beef (1 lb/450 g, 80/20 blend recommended): Adds rich, savory flavor and hearty texture.
- Yellow onion (1 medium, finely chopped): Provides aromatic depth.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses robust flavor.
- Carrot (1 medium, diced): Lends natural sweetness and color.
- Frozen peas (1/2 cup): Classic veggie addition for pops of green.
- Frozen corn kernels (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and pairs perfectly with the cornbread topping.
- Tomato paste (1/4 cup): Richens the filling with umami.
- Beef broth (1 cup): Creates a juicy, flavorful filling.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp): Deepens savory taste.
- Dried thyme (1 tsp): Classic herbal note.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 tsp): Adds gentle smokiness.
- Salt (1/2 tsp for filling, 1/2 tsp for crust): Brings out flavors in both layers.
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Subtle heat.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing vegetables and beef.
- Yellow cornmeal (1 cup/120 g): Foundation for the cornbread crust.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup/125 g): Structure for the topping.
- Granulated sugar (1 tbsp): Balances and sweetens the crust.
- Baking powder (1 tbsp): Gives the crust lift.
- Whole milk (1 cup/240 ml): Moisture and richness for the batter.
- Large eggs (2): Binds and creates a tender crumb.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/4 cup/60 g): Adds softness and buttery flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and carrot; sauté 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Brown Beef:
- Add ground beef; cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Flavor:
- Stir in garlic, tomato paste, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
- Simmer Filling:
- Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, peas, and corn. Simmer 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and transfer mixture to a 9-inch (23 cm) deep-dish pie pan or baking dish.
- Make Cornbread Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk milk, eggs, and melted butter until combined. Add wet ingredients to dry, stirring just until mixed—do not overmix.
- Assemble Pie:
- Pour cornbread batter evenly over the beef filling, spreading to cover completely.
- Bake:
- Bake 25–30 minutes, or until cornbread is golden and a toothpick inserted into the crust comes out clean.
- Rest & Serve:
- Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Pin It Sharing this pie around our table always brings smiles, especially when my kids get excited for a second helping. It's become a tradition on chilly evenings in our house.
Serving Suggestions
Pair Cornbread Crusted Beef Pie with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a truly complete meal. Add a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top for extra flavor.
Customization Ideas
For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeño to the beef or swap ground beef for turkey or chicken to lighten things up. You can also toss in your favorite veggies or use a mix of cheese in the cornbread batter.
Make Ahead & Storage
Prepare the beef filling up to 1 day ahead and refrigerate. Assemble and bake when ready. Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Pin It A golden cornbread crust and hearty beef filling make this pie a heartwarming winner. It's sure to become a family favorite any night of the week.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of beef is best for this dish?
Ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio ensures a flavorful and moist filling without being too greasy.
- → Can I substitute the cornbread crust with another topping?
Yes, mashed potatoes or biscuit dough can be alternatives, though the cornbread adds a unique sweetness and texture.
- → How do I achieve a golden cornbread crust?
Baking at 400°F until the cornbread top is firm and golden, usually about 25–30 minutes, yields the best texture and color.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Prepare the beef filling and cornbread batter separately, then assemble before baking for fresh results when ready to serve.
- → What sides pair well with this meal?
Light salads, roasted vegetables, or steamed greens complement the rich beef and cornbread flavors nicely.
- → Is it possible to add spice to the filling?
Incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne can add a pleasant spicy kick without overpowering the dish.