JOHN WAYNE CASSEROLE

John Wayne casserole is cozy comfort food at its best. You’re going to love the Southwestern flavor of this hearty family classic. This is one of my favorite easy ground beef recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This John Wayne casserole is a delightful twist on traditional comfort food, offering a blend of savory ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, and creamy layers that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, and the simple preparation makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• 12-inch skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Parchment paper (optional)

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef, cooked and drained
• 1 (1.25-ounce) packet taco seasoning
• 4 ounces sour cream
• 4 ounces mayonnaise
• 8 ounces Cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
• 1 yellow onion, sliced
• 2 cups biscuit mix
• 2 tomatoes, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 (4-ounce) can sliced jalapeno peppers

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First, preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Next, in a 12-inch skillet, brown the ground beef until thoroughly cooked, then drain and return to the skillet. Add ¾ cup water, the taco seasoning packet and bring to a boil. Add the onion and the peppers. Turn down the heat and simmer for three to five minutes, or until the onions and peppers begin to soften. Set aside.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the biscuit mix and ⅔ cup water to make a soft dough. Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides about ½ inch in the prepared baking dish. The dough is sticky, so use parchment paper and a spatula to help press it out evenly.
4. In another bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and half the cheese. Set aside.
5. Spread the beef mixture evenly over the biscuit layer. Layer the sliced tomatoes, green chilies, and then the sour cream mixture over the top.
6. Finally, top with the remaining cheese. Bake your John Wayne casserole for 30 to 35 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.

Tips for Success

Ensure the dough is evenly spread in the baking dish to prevent uneven cooking. If the dough is too sticky, use a bit of flour on your hands or the parchment paper to help manage it. Cook the ground beef thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like corn or black beans to the beef mixture for more variety. For a spicier kick, consider adding extra jalapenos or using a spicy taco seasoning mix.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is rich in protein from the ground beef and cheese, providing a hearty meal. It also offers a good amount of calcium from the cheese and vitamins from the vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Conclusion

Give this John Wayne casserole a try and experience the comforting, Southwestern flavors that make it a family favorite. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you, so please share your thoughts and any creative variations you tried in the comments below!