Have you ever heard of the legendary John Wayne Casserole? This hearty and flavorful dish is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience perfect for family dinners and potlucks alike. Combining layers of savory ground beef, a creamy cheese mixture, vibrant vegetables, and a hint of spice from jalapeños, all baked atop a golden biscuit crust, this casserole is destined to become a weeknight favorite.
Plate of John Wayne Casserole topped with melted cheese
What is John Wayne Casserole?
John Wayne Casserole is a Southwestern-inspired dish that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of many. It’s a layered casserole, which means each component is carefully placed to create a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite. Think of it as a deconstructed taco in casserole form! The base layer of flaky biscuits gives way to a rich ground beef mixture seasoned with taco spices, followed by a creamy and cheesy layer, and topped with fresh vegetables and a touch of jalapeño for a subtle kick.
If you’re a fan of easy and satisfying comfort food, this John Wayne Casserole recipe is a must-try. And if you love the idea but prefer a hands-off approach, you can even try a slow cooker version – check out our Crockpot John Wayne Casserole recipe!
Two servings of John Wayne Casserole, one on a plate and one in a baking dish
The Story Behind the Name: Why “John Wayne Casserole”?
The name “John Wayne Casserole” adds a touch of Wild West charm to this recipe. While the exact origins are debated, culinary historians have explored some interesting theories about its name. Some believe it’s named after the iconic actor due to its hearty and robust nature, fitting for a “manly” meal. Others suggest it might have originated in the Southwest, a region often associated with John Wayne’s films.
Regardless of the true story, one thing is certain: this casserole is a crowd-pleaser. Don’t let the jalapeños scare you away – they add just a hint of warmth and flavor without making it overly spicy. It’s a balanced dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Single serving of John Wayne Casserole on a white plate
John Wayne Casserole Ingredients: What You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- Ground Beef: 2 pounds of ground beef form the hearty base of this casserole.
- Taco Seasoning: A packet of taco seasoning (or your favorite homemade taco seasoning) provides that signature Southwestern flavor.
- Large Biscuits: One 16-ounce can of large biscuits creates the easy and delicious crust. You can use store-bought for convenience or homemade biscuits if you prefer.
- Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These create a creamy and tangy layer that adds richness to the casserole.
- Cheddar Cheese: 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese, divided, for both the creamy layer and the cheesy topping.
- Onion: One medium onion, halved and sliced, adds savory flavor to both the cream cheese mixture and the vegetable layer.
- Tomatoes: Two medium tomatoes, sliced, provide freshness and a juicy element.
- Red Bell Pepper: One red bell pepper, halved and sliced, contributes sweetness and vibrant color.
- Jalapeño Peppers: A 4-ounce can of sliced jalapeño peppers adds a touch of spice. Adjust the amount to your preference.
- Baking Dish: A 13×9 inch baking dish is perfect for this casserole.
How to Make John Wayne Casserole: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making John Wayne Casserole is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps for a delicious dinner:
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Prepare the Biscuit Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9 inch baking dish. Arrange the biscuits in a single layer in the dish, pressing them together to seal the seams and extending the dough slightly up the sides of the dish. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
Ingredients ready for making John Wayne Casserole -
Cook the Beef: While the biscuits are baking, brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain off any excess grease. Stir in the taco seasoning and water according to the seasoning packet instructions. Set aside.
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Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the sliced onion. Mix well and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet you used for the beef, sauté the remaining onion and the sliced bell pepper until slightly tender.
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Layer the Casserole: Once the biscuit crust is lightly browned, remove it from the oven. Layer the ingredients in the following order: taco meat, tomato slices, sautéed bell pepper and onion mixture, jalapeño peppers, and the sour cream mixture. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.
John Wayne Casserole topped with shredded cheese before baking -
Bake: Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until the edges of the biscuit crust are nicely browned and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Baked John Wayne Casserole in a baking dish ready to serve -
Serve and Enjoy! Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra sour cream or chopped cilantro, if desired.
More Delicious Casserole Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed this John Wayne Casserole, you’ll love exploring other easy and flavorful casserole recipes! Casseroles are a fantastic way to create a complete and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Here are a few more casserole recipes you might like:
- Hamburger Casserole: Another ground beef classic with a cheesy and comforting twist.
- Taco Empanadas: For another delicious Tex-Mex inspired meal.
- Explore our full collection of casserole recipes for even more inspiration!
John Wayne Casserole Recipe Card
This John Wayne Casserole is a guaranteed hit! It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Give it a try and let us know what you think!
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 10
Calories: 607 kcal
Author: Amanda Davis
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef, browned and drained
- 1 ounce packet taco seasoning, plus water as directed on packet (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 16 ounce can large biscuits
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
- 1 medium onion, halved and sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, halved and sliced
- 4 ounces canned sliced jalapeño peppers
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9 inch baking dish.
- Place biscuits in pan in a single layer, pressing edges to seal and extending dough slightly up the sides. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until lightly golden.
- Brown ground beef, drain grease, and stir in taco seasoning and water per packet instructions. Set aside.
- In a bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, 4 ounces cheddar cheese, and half the sliced onion. Mix well.
- Sauté remaining onion and bell pepper in the beef skillet until tender.
- Layer ingredients over biscuit crust: taco meat, tomato slices, bell pepper and onion mixture, jalapeño peppers, and sour cream mixture. Sprinkle with remaining 4 ounces of cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until crust is browned and cheese is melted.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 607kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 44g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 99mg
- Sodium: 940mg
- Potassium: 513mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Vitamin A: 1272IU
- Vitamin C: 34mg
- Calcium: 221mg
- Iron: 4mg
Enjoy your delicious John Wayne Casserole!
Originally published April 22, 2015.
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