If you’re looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner that layers bold Tex-Mex flavors with cheesy, creamy comfort, this John Wayne Casserole checks every box. It’s one of those cozy, family-friendly meals that’s easy to put together and guaranteed to disappear fast. With a biscuit crust, seasoned beef, creamy layers, and melty cheese, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. Named after the legendary cowboy actor himself, this casserole has become a staple in kitchens across the country. While the recipe has evolved over the years, the soul of it remains the same—bold, savory, satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or just in the mood for something filling and flavorful, this casserole brings that comfort food magic. I love how flexible this dish is too. Want it spicier? Add extra jalapeños. Don’t have fresh tomatoes? Canned works just fine. It’s one of those forgiving, “use what you have” recipes that always turns out delicious. Let’s jump into the ingredients and the first few steps to get this cheesy casserole on your table tonight.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1–2 jalapeños, sliced (optional)
• 1 large tomato, diced (or 1 can diced tomatoes, drained)
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Nonstick spray or butter, for greasing

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Add Seasoning

Stir in 1 packet of taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water to the beef. Simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Building and Layering Your John Wayne Casserole

Now that the beef is cooked and seasoned, it’s time to bring all the delicious layers together. From the soft biscuit crust on the bottom to the cheesy, golden top, this casserole is a meal that practically serves itself. Each layer adds something special, and when it all bakes together, you get that perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory in every bite.

Step 4: Form the Biscuit Crust

Take your refrigerated biscuit dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Gently press it slightly up the sides to form a bit of a crust edge. This forms the base of your casserole and gives it that comforting, bready bottom layer that holds up to all the toppings.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Cheese Layer

In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese (that’s 1/2 cup). Stir until smooth and well combined. This mixture adds that creamy, tangy layer that makes this dish so indulgent. Spread this mixture evenly over the biscuit layer using a spoon or spatula. Don’t worry if it mixes a bit with the crust—it’ll all bake together beautifully.

Step 6: Add the Beef

Next, layer the seasoned ground beef evenly over the creamy cheese mixture. It should cover the surface entirely.

Step 7: Add the Veggies

Now sprinkle your diced onions, green bell pepper, sliced jalapeños (if using), and diced tomatoes over the beef. This adds flavor, crunch, and a little brightness to balance out the richness of the other layers. If you’re using canned diced tomatoes, make sure they’re well-drained to avoid sogginess.

Step 8: Top with Cheese

Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and all of the Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. This will create a gooey, bubbly top layer once baked.

Step 9: Bake the Casserole

Place the assembled casserole in your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, the edges are lightly golden, and the biscuit crust is cooked through. If you like your cheese a little more browned, you can broil it for the last 1–2 minutes—just keep a close eye on it.

Step 10: Let It Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set up and makes it easier to cut into clean pieces. Serve warm, optionally topped with extra sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or chopped green onions if you like a little garnish.

John Wayne Casserole: FAQ and Final Thoughts

You’ve layered it, baked it, and now your kitchen smells absolutely amazing. This John Wayne Casserole is everything you want in a comfort food dish—savory, cheesy, hearty, and easy to put together. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, potluck favorite, or just a cozy meal at home, it hits the spot every single time. Before you dig in, here are a few common questions to help you get the most out of this recipe—and a few final thoughts on why it’s worth keeping in your dinner rotation.

Can I make John Wayne Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead of time. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes while the oven preheats, then bake as instructed.

Can I freeze it?

Absolutely. Once the casserole is baked and cooled, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through (about 20–25 minutes).

Can I make it spicier?

Definitely. Add extra jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or some crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for more heat. You can also swap the Monterey Jack for Pepper Jack cheese if you like an extra kick.

What can I serve with John Wayne Casserole?

This casserole is filling on its own, but it pairs well with a simple green salad, tortilla chips and salsa, or even corn on the cob for a full Tex-Mex-style meal.

Can I use different meat or make it vegetarian?

Yes! Ground turkey or ground chicken can be used in place of beef. For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with cooked lentils, black beans, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This John Wayne Casserole

There’s a reason this casserole has become such a staple in kitchens everywhere. It’s easy, customizable, and packed with flavor in every bite. The biscuit crust gives it a comforting base, while the creamy layer, seasoned meat, and veggies all work together to create a rich, satisfying dish. It’s also the kind of meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for enjoying as leftovers the next day—because yes, it reheats beautifully. You can tweak the ingredients to fit what you have on hand or to suit your taste, making it a great go-to for busy weeknights. So go ahead—add this John Wayne Casserole to your meal plan this week. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a recipe people come back to again and again. Print