The John Wayne Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish inspired by the rugged spirit of the American West—just like the legendary cowboy himself. This comforting casserole layers savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and zesty vegetables over a golden biscuit crust, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or looking for a weeknight family favorite, this dish delivers bold Southwestern flavors with minimal effort. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with warmth and brings everyone to the table.
🥘 Why You’ll Love It
- Hearty & filling: Packed with protein, cheese, and veggies.
- Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples you probably already have.
- Family-friendly: Even picky eaters love it!
- Perfect make-ahead meal: Great for meal prep or potlucks.
🌵 Ingredients
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- ¾ cup water
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
🔥 Instructions
- Preheat the oven: to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the crust: Flatten biscuit dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the dish to form a crust. Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.
- Cook the beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and bell pepper. Drain excess fat. Add taco seasoning and water; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Layer it up:
- Spread the beef mixture over the baked crust.
- Add diced tomatoes and green chilies on top.
- In a bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, and half the cheese, then spread this mixture over the top.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly.
- Bake: Return to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions if desired.
🤠 Serving Ideas
Pair your John Wayne Casserole with a side of fresh salad, roasted corn, or Mexican rice. Add a dollop of guacamole or salsa on top for extra flavor.