Cheesy, Hearty John Wayne Casserole Recipe – A Family Favorite in One Dish

If you're looking for a hearty, comforting dish that will satisfy the whole family, this John Wayne Casserole recipe is the perfect choice! Imagine layers of seasoned beef, melty cheese, vegetables, and a fluffy biscuit base – all baked to perfection. This dish delivers a combination of savory flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes it a true crowd-pleaser.

Photo byRecipes By Lisa

I first stumbled upon this recipe on the Recipes by Lisa Facebook Page, and it quickly became a staple in my household. Now, I’m sharing it with you because I know it’ll be an instant hit in your kitchen too!

The Story Behind the John Wayne Casserole

This dish is named after the legendary actor, John Wayne, who apparently had a love for bold, hearty meals. The recipe itself has evolved over the years, but the core elements remain the same: a flavorful blend of ground beef, vegetables, cheese, and a biscuit base. Whether you’re a fan of Western classics or just love casseroles that pack layers of flavor, this dish is for you.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• ½ cup water
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes, drained
• ½ cup bell peppers, diced
• ½ cup onion, diced
• 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated biscuits
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 1 jalapeño (optional, sliced)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain the excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning and water. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, then mix in the Rotel tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables soften.
3. Prepare the Biscuit Base: Open the can of biscuits and press them into the bottom of the greased baking dish to create an even layer.
4. Mix the Creamy Topping: In a bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, ½ cup of cheddar cheese, and ½ cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef mixture over the biscuit layer, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Then, spoon the sour cream mixture on top and spread it gently. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the casserole, and if you want a little heat, top with sliced jalapeños.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the biscuits are golden brown.
7. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy the cheesy, comforting flavors!

Customizations and Tips:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils for a vegetarian version of this casserole.
• Make it Spicy: If you love heat, consider adding more jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
• Pairing Suggestions: Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness. For a fun twist, top it with guacamole or a drizzle of salsa for a Tex-Mex flair.

Call to Action:

Did you love this John Wayne Casserole? Leave a comment below to let me know how it turned out, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family! Follow me for more tasty and easy-to-make recipes, and stay tuned for the next delicious dish.