John Wayne Casserole Recipe
Introduction
John Wayne Casserole is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines seasoned ground beef with creamy layers and a biscuit crust. This easy-to-make casserole delivers Tex-Mex inspired comfort food perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- ¾ cup water
- 1 (16.3 oz) can refrigerated biscuit dough
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Step 2: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning and water. Simmer until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Step 3: Press the biscuit dough evenly into the prepared baking dish to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven.
- Step 4: In a bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped onion. Spread this mixture evenly over the baked crust.
- Step 5: Layer the taco meat over the sour cream mixture. Top with chopped bell pepper, diced green chiles, chopped tomatoes, and the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Step 6: Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 7: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- For extra spice, add a diced jalapeño or use a hot taco seasoning blend.
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add black beans or corn to the layers for additional texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a crispier crust, bake the biscuit dough a few minutes longer before adding the toppings.
Storage
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. To freeze, wrap tightly and keep for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use homemade biscuit dough instead of canned?
Yes, homemade biscuit dough works well and allows you to control ingredients and flavor. Just shape it into the pan as directed and bake accordingly.
Is it possible to prepare this casserole ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Add extra baking time if baking chilled.
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John Wayne Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
John Wayne Casserole is a hearty and flavorful baked dish featuring seasoned ground beef layered with a biscuit dough crust, creamy sour cream and mayonnaise mixture, fresh vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this casserole combines classic taco flavors with a unique biscuit base for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- ¾ cup water
Crust
- 1 (16.3 oz) can refrigerated biscuit dough
- Nonstick cooking spray
Filling
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the taco meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat, then add the taco seasoning and ¾ cup water. Stir and let it simmer until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the crust: Press the refrigerated biscuit dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust. Bake this crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to partially cook it.
- Layer the casserole: In a bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped onion until well combined. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the baked biscuit crust. Then layer the cooked taco meat, chopped bell pepper, diced green chiles, chopped tomatoes, and the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake the casserole: Place the assembled casserole back into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the vegetables are tender.
- Finish and serve: After baking, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set before slicing. Serve hot for a delicious and hearty meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for beef for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra diced green chiles or a splash of hot sauce.
- The refrigerated biscuit dough crust can be replaced with crescent roll dough for a different texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Adding a layer of black beans can increase fiber and protein content.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: John Wayne casserole, taco casserole, biscuit crust casserole, ground beef casserole, cheesy casserole, comfort food casserole
