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John Wayne Casserole Recipe You’ll Want to Make Tonight


  • Author: Naomi
  • Total Time: 50 min

Description

A hearty, Tex-Mex inspired layered casserole packed with seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and fresh veggies, all baked over a buttery biscuit crust. This comfort classic is perfect for a weeknight dinner and guaranteed to satisfy hungry appetites!


Ingredients

Scale

For the meat layer:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup water
  • For the base:
  • 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough

For the creamy layer:

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Toppings:
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 12 jalapeños, sliced (optional)
  • 1 large tomato, diced (or 1 can diced tomatoes, drained)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • Remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the dish:

  • Nonstick spray or butter, for greasing

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.

2️⃣ Cook the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

3️⃣ Season the meat: Add taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water to the beef. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, then remove from heat.

4️⃣ Prepare the crust: Open the biscuit dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, slightly up the sides to form a base.

5️⃣ Mix the creamy layer: In a bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well and spread evenly over the biscuit base.

6️⃣ Add the beef: Spoon the seasoned beef over the creamy layer, spreading it out evenly.

7️⃣ Layer the vegetables: Sprinkle the diced onion, green bell pepper, jalapeños (if using), and tomatoes over the meat.

8️⃣ Top with cheese: Finish with the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar and the full cup of Monterey Jack cheese.

9️⃣ Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the biscuit crust is golden brown.

🔟 Rest and serve: Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes to set before slicing. Serve warm!

Notes

  • Spice level: Adjust jalapeños to control the heat. Omit for mild, double for spicy!

  • Make-ahead: Assemble the casserole up to Step 8 and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

  • Variations: Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken. Add black beans or corn for extra texture.

  • Cheese swap: Use pepper jack for a spicier kick or mozzarella for a milder version.

  • Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in oven or microwave.

  • Prep Time: 15 min
  • Cook Time: 35 min