Skillet Cornbread Tamale Pie

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 425F.

Heat a tablespoon or two of olive oil in an oven safe skillet. Once the pan is hot add the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper then season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Stir in the garlic, chili powder, and cumin and cook until fragrant, about a minute. Stir in the corn, tomato sauce, and beef broth, lower the heat and simmer while you make the cornbread.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, milk, and baking soda. Add the buttermilk mixture to the flour mixture along with the melted butter and mix until just combined.

Taste the beef mixture for salt and pepper and adjust if necessary.

Dollop the cornbread batter over the beef mixture and gently spread to create an even layer. Sprinkle the cheese over the cornbread, place the skillet on a rimmed baking sheet and transfer to the oven. Bake until the cornbread is browned, 20 – 25 minutes.