Pin A hearty, comforting pie featuring savory beef and vegetables beneath a golden, slightly sweet cornbread crust—perfect for a cozy family dinner.
I fell in love with this dish on a chilly weekend, seeking something heartwarming and filling to share at the family table. The cornbread topping adds a delightful twist that always gets rave reviews.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) 80/20 blend recommended
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Carrot: 1 medium, diced
- Frozen peas: 1/2 cup
- Frozen corn kernels: 1/2 cup
- Tomato paste: 1/4 cup
- Beef broth: 1 cup
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tbsp
- Dried thyme: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp for filling, 1/2 tsp for crust
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Yellow cornmeal: 1 cup (120 g)
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup (125 g)
- Granulated sugar: 1 tbsp
- Baking powder: 1 tbsp
- Whole milk: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Unsalted butter, melted: 1/4 cup (60 g)
Instructions
- Prep 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 the Beef:
- Add ground beef. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Season and Add Aromatics:
- Stir in garlic, tomato paste, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute.
- Simmer Filling:
- Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, peas, and corn. Simmer 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a 9-inch (23 cm) deep-dish pie pan or baking dish.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk milk, eggs, and melted butter until combined. Add wet ingredients to dry and stir until just 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 and Serve:
- Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Pin 
My family gathers around the table for this pie on blustery evenings, everyone eager for a hearty, bubbling slice. It disappears fast, especially when served with sides like salad or roasted veggies.
Required Tools
Large skillet, mixing bowls, whisk, 9-inch (23 cm) deep-dish pie pan or baking dish, measuring cups and spoons, spatula or wooden spoon.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk, and eggs. May contain traces of soy if certain broths or cornmeal brands are used. Always check labels when allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 420 calories, 19 g total fat, 39 g carbohydrates, 22 g protein.
Pin This satisfying pie is a true crowd-pleaser on busy weeknights and special occasions. Enjoy leftovers, if you're lucky enough to have any!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I achieve a golden cornbread crust?
Ensure the oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C) and bake until the crust turns a rich golden color, usually 25–30 minutes. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well for a lighter variation without compromising flavor.
- → What spices enhance the filling's flavor?
Dried thyme, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce add depth and a smoky, savory note to the beef mixture.
- → How can I add a spicy kick to the dish?
Incorporate one diced jalapeño into the filling during cooking to introduce a gentle heat.
- → What side dishes complement this baked beef and cornbread combination?
A crisp side salad or roasted seasonal vegetables balance the hearty richness of the main dish.