California Tamale Pie

California Tamale Pie is a hearty, flavorful dish inspired by traditional tamales, but baked in a pie or casserole form. It features a savory meat filling topped with cornbread or masa crust, making it perfect for a comforting family meal.

### Ingredients:

**For the Meat Filling:**
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
– 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional)

**For the Cornbread/Masa Topping:**
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter

### Instructions:

1. **Preheat your oven** to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or casserole dish.

2. **Prepare the meat filling:**
– In a skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
– Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until softened.
– Stir in tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and green chilies if using.
– Simmer for 5-10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese.

3. **Assemble the pie:**
– Spread the meat mixture evenly in the prepared dish.

4. **Make the cornbread topping:**
– In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
– In another bowl, beat milk, eggs, and oil.
– Combine wet and dry ingredients until just blended.

5. **Top the meat mixture:**
– Pour the cornbread batter over the meat filling, spreading evenly.

6. **Bake:**
– Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. **Serve:**
– Let it cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro or extra cheese if desired.

Enjoy your hearty California Tamale Pie—a satisfying fusion of flavors and textures!