John Wayne Casserole Recipe

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About This Recipe

John Wayne Casserole is a hearty, Tex-Mex-inspired dish named after the famous actor. While the origins vary, the recipe has become a family favorite in many homes. This layered casserole combines a biscuit crust with seasoned ground beef, creamy vegetables, cheese, and a flavorful sauce. It’s baked to golden perfection, resulting in a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Layers of flavor with a balance of beef, cheese, and creamy vegetables.
  • Simple pantry-friendly ingredients.
  • A complete meal baked in one dish.
  • Easily customizable with your favorite toppings.
  • Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping leftovers.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel), drained
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 8 oz shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
  • 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (such as Pillsbury Grands)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
  3. Add taco seasoning and water. Stir and cook for 3–4 minutes until thickened. Stir in drained diced tomatoes with chilies. Remove from heat.
  4. In a separate pan, sauté onion and bell pepper with a drizzle of oil until softened, about 5 minutes. Add diced green chilies. Season lightly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and half of the shredded cheeses (½ cup cheddar and ½ cup Monterey Jack). Mix until smooth.
  6. Press biscuit dough evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust. Pre-bake for 8–10 minutes until just set (not fully cooked).
  7. Layer cooked ground beef mixture on top of the biscuit crust. Spread sautéed vegetable mixture over the beef.
  8. Top with the creamy sour cream-cheese mixture, spreading evenly.
  9. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the top.
  10. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly, and casserole is heated through.
  11. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving to set the layers.

Serving Suggestions

  • Garnish with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or sliced jalapeños.
  • Serve with a side salad for balance.
  • Pair with Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete Tex-Mex meal.
  • Add a dollop of guacamole or salsa on top for freshness.

Variations

  • Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
  • Add black beans or corn to the vegetable layer for extra texture.
  • Swap biscuit crust with crescent roll dough or cornbread mix.
  • Make it spicier by adding extra chili powder or hot sauce.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 8 servings)

  • Calories: 420
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugars: 4 g
  • Sodium: 870 mg

FAQ

Why is it called John Wayne Casserole?
It’s believed to be adapted from a recipe submitted by the actor John Wayne in a charity cookbook, though variations have since spread widely.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Can I make this low-carb?
Yes. Replace the biscuit crust with a base of sautéed zucchini or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

Storage Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or in the microwave in short intervals.
  • For best texture, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.

Final Notes

John Wayne Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, creamy, and loaded with flavor. With its biscuit crust and hearty filling, it makes for a satisfying family dinner or potluck dish. Customize it to your taste with different vegetables or protein options, and enjoy this classic casserole whenever you need a crowd-pleasing meal.

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