The John Wayne Casserole is a delicious, hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Named after the famous actor, this casserole features layers of seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and a rich biscuit base, all topped with a creamy cheese mixture. It’s the ultimate comfort food with Southwestern flair, and it’s easy to make with ingredients you likely have on hand. Let’s dive in and make this crowd-pleasing dish!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Introduction
John Wayne Casserole is a dish packed full of bold flavors that bring together the essence of the Old West. It’s named after the iconic actor, and some say the recipe came from a dish he loved. Featuring layers of biscuits, spiced ground beef, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and a cheesy topping, this dish is comforting, easy to make, and perfect for feeding a crowd. With its combination of savory flavors and creamy textures, this casserole will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
For the Casserole Base
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Ro*Tel), drained
- 1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning
- 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated biscuit dough
For the Topping
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat, then add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Season the Beef: Add the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Biscuit Base: Open the can of biscuit dough and press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the biscuit layer in the baking dish.
- Make the Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until well mixed.
- Add the Topping: Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the ground beef layer in the baking dish.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh chopped green onions if desired.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Biscuit Layer: Make sure to press the biscuit dough into an even layer to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Drain Excess Fat: Draining the fat from the cooked ground beef is important to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.
- Season to Taste: You can adjust the seasonings to your taste, adding more taco seasoning or spices if you prefer a stronger flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños to the beef mixture or use spicy diced tomatoes with green chilies for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu, and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
- Add Black Beans: For extra texture and protein, mix in a can of drained black beans with the ground beef mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
3. Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole after baking. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. What Can I Serve with John Wayne Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, cornbread, or a side of Mexican rice.
The John Wayne Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a comforting family meal. With its layers of seasoned beef, creamy cheese topping, and biscuit base, it’s easy to see why this casserole has become a classic. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this casserole is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Give it a try, and experience the taste of the Old West in your kitchen!
Happy Cooking!
