A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Dish

If you’re searching for a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal that’s packed with bold flavors, look no further than John Wayne Casserole. This layered dish combines biscuits, taco-seasoned beef, melty cheese, and a creamy topping, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family dinners. Inspired by the legendary cowboy himself, this dish is robust, satisfying, and full of Southwestern flair.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect for busy families: This casserole comes together with simple ingredients and is easy to make ahead of time.
Full of flavor: Spicy taco-seasoned beef, creamy layers, and melty cheese make this dish irresistible.
Versatile and customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to fit your preferences or dietary needs.
Great for meal prep: Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

16 ounces refrigerated large biscuits – Forms the base of the casserole.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Used to sauté the vegetables and beef.
2 pounds ground beef – Provides a hearty and flavorful filling.
1 packet taco seasoning – Infuses the beef with Southwestern flavors.
¼ -½ cup water – Helps distribute the seasoning evenly.
10 ounces diced tomatoes with green chilies – Adds a tangy, mildly spicy kick.
14 ounces canned corn, drained – Adds a touch of sweetness and texture.
1 onion, sliced – Enhances the flavor with a savory depth.
1 red bell pepper, sliced – Adds color and a slight sweetness.
4 ounces canned sliced jalapenos – Gives the dish a bit of heat.
1 cup mayonnaise – Used in the creamy topping.
1 cup sour cream – Adds richness and tang to the topping.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Brings a sharp, cheesy taste.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Provides a gooey, melty texture.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a fresh finishing touch.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

9×13-inch baking dish
Large skillet
Mixing bowls
Spatula or wooden spoon
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Biscuits

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the refrigerated biscuits in a single layer, pressing them slightly to cover the bottom. Bake for 10-12 minutes to partially cook them.

2. Cook the Beef Mixture

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and red bell pepper and sauté until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, then drain any excess fat.

Stir in 1 packet of taco seasoning and ¼-½ cup of water. Mix well, then add diced tomatoes with green chilies and drained corn. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

3. Assemble the Casserole

Spread the beef mixture evenly over the partially cooked biscuit layer. Scatter the sliced jalapenos evenly across the top.

4. Add the Creamy Layer

In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup mayonnaise and 1 cup sour cream. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the beef layer.

5. Top with Cheese and Bake

Evenly sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy warm!

Recipe Tips and Variations

Make it spicier: Use extra jalapenos or add hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Make it milder: Use mild taco seasoning and skip the jalapenos.
Add beans: Black beans or pinto beans make a great addition.
Use different cheese: Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or Colby jack for a milder flavor.
Swap the biscuits: Substitute with crescent roll dough or cornbread mix for a different twist.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap the casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions.

What to Serve with John Wayne Casserole

Side Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness.
Garlic Bread: Adds an extra layer of indulgence.
Mexican Rice: Complements the Southwestern flavors beautifully.
Cold Beverages: Pair with iced tea, margaritas, or a cold beer for a refreshing contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that still pairs well with the flavors.

What if I don’t have biscuits?

You can use crescent roll dough, cornbread mix, or even a layer of cooked pasta as a base.

Is this casserole spicy?

It has a mild kick from the diced tomatoes with green chilies and jalapenos, but you can adjust the spice level as needed.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the beef with black beans, pinto beans, or a meat alternative.

Final Thoughts

John Wayne Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, hearty, and full of bold flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prep, this dish is sure to satisfy. If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes! Happy cooking!