This John Wayne Casserole is a hearty, flavor-packed classic that combines layers of flaky biscuits, creamy seasoned beef, melted cheese, and colorful vegetables — all baked together into one irresistible dish! Inspired by the cowboy himself, this Tex-Mex-style casserole is the ultimate comfort food dinner that’s easy to make and guaranteed to satisfy even the hungriest appetites.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is for anyone craving a filling, family-style dinner that’s simple to prepare but big on flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or just want a cozy baked dish for Sunday dinner, this John Wayne Casserole checks every box.
Why You’ll Love It
- Rich, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness.
- Uses pantry staples for an easy weeknight dinner.
- A perfect Tex-Mex comfort meal that feeds the whole family.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings and seasonings.
Ingredients
Base Layer:
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (like Pillsbury Grands)
Beef Layer:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- ½ cup water
Vegetable & Cream Layer:
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel-style)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven
- Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the biscuit crust
- Press biscuit dough evenly into the bottom of the dish, flattening slightly to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes, just until lightly golden.
- Cook the beef
- In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Sauté the vegetables
- In another pan (or the same one), cook onion and bell pepper until softened. Stir in diced tomatoes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Make the creamy layer
- In a bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, and 1 cup shredded cheese until smooth.
- Assemble the casserole
- Layer the baked biscuits, taco meat, vegetable mixture, and creamy cheese topping in the dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake until bubbly
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until hot and golden.
- Serve warm
- Garnish with fresh green onions or cilantro. Serve with salsa or avocado slices if desired.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula or spoon
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.
- Freeze baked casserole for up to 3 months; thaw before reheating.
- Reheat at 350°F until warmed through.
FAQ
Q: Can I use crescent rolls instead of biscuits?
Yes! Crescent roll dough makes a softer, flakier base.
Q: Can I make it spicier?
Add jalapeños, hot Rotel, or pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely — it’s just as flavorful with lean turkey or chicken.
Conclusion
This John Wayne Casserole is a true American comfort food — cheesy, creamy, and loaded with hearty layers that’ll make everyone ask for seconds. It’s the perfect easy family dinner when you want something cozy, filling, and full of bold flavor.
Enjoy !!!
