John Wayne Casserole

The John Wayne Casserole is one of those dishes that warms your heart and fills your belly all at once. Growing up, my family had this tradition of gathering every Sunday for a big meal, and this casserole was often the star of the table. I remember the sizzle of the ground beef in the skillet and the delightful aroma that wafted through the house as it baked. It was more than just a meal; it was a way to connect, to share laughter, and to create memories. When you serve a dish like the John Wayne Casserole, you invite everyone to dig in and enjoy the comfort of food that feels like a warm hug. Imagine the flaky biscuit crust, the savory beef, and that creamy topping all melded together in one bite. You simply can’t help but go back for seconds!

Recipe Ingredients for John Wayne Casserole

The ingredients in the John Wayne Casserole come together to create a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role, from the flaky biscuits providing a sturdy base to the seasoned ground beef adding depth and satisfaction. This dish is not only flavorful but also comforting and filling, perfect for a family meal.

• 1 (16.3-ounce) can Grands biscuits – These fluffy biscuits serve as the perfect base, adding a delightful texture.
• 2 pounds lean ground beef – The heart of the dish, bringing protein and flavor.
• 1 cup onion, diced – Adds a savory sweetness that enhances the overall taste.
• ½ cup bell pepper, diced – Provides a pop of color and a slight crunch.
• 1 packet taco seasoning – This spice blend infuses the dish with a zesty kick.
• 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles, drained – Contributes a mild heat and depth of flavor.
• 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chiles, drained – Adds juiciness and a hint of spice.
• ¾ cup sour cream – Provides creaminess and tanginess.
• ¾ cup mayonnaise – Adds richness and depth to the creamy layer.
• 2 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded and divided – Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy topping.

Instructions for John Wayne Casserole

Making the John Wayne Casserole is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that everyone will love. Get ready to bring this delightful meal together!

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating, grab a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures that your casserole comes out easily and the biscuits don’t stick.

2. In a large skillet, cook 2 pounds of lean ground beef over medium-high heat. Stir it occasionally until there’s no pink left, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Be sure to drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.

3. Add 1 cup of diced onion and ½ cup of diced bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion turns translucent. You’ll know it’s ready when the onions are soft and fragrant.

4. Next, stir in 1 packet of taco seasoning, 1 (4-ounce) can of diced green chiles, and 1 (10-ounce) can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chiles. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through and slightly thickened. The mixture should be bubbling gently.

5. In a small bowl, combine ¾ cup of sour cream, ¾ cup of mayonnaise, and ½ cup of the 2 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. This creamy mixture will add a luscious layer to your casserole.

6. Open the 1 (16.3-ounce) can of Grands biscuits and remove the biscuits. Press them into the bottom of your prepared casserole dish, stretching and pinching them as necessary to cover the entire base.

7. Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes until they’re lightly golden. This step gives the base a nice, firm foundation for the toppings.

8. Once the biscuits are done, remove them from the oven and layer the beef mixture evenly over the top. Then, spread the creamy mixture as evenly as possible. The combination of flavors here is what makes the John Wayne Casserole so delicious!

9. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This is where the magic happens as it melts during baking!

10. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is fully melted and starts to turn a lovely golden brown. When it’s done, the entire dish should be bubbling and inviting.

11. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This casserole is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven!

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to put your own spin on the John Wayne Casserole, here are some fun ideas! Adapting recipes to suit your taste or dietary needs can make mealtime even more exciting.

• Add Vegetables: Consider adding corn, zucchini, or spinach to boost the veggie content and nutrition.
• Swap Meats: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Experiment with Cheese: Use pepper jack or mozzarella for a different cheesy flavor.
• Change the Biscuits: Try using different types of biscuits, like cheddar or garlic, for a unique twist.
• Make It Spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture for an extra kick.

Side Dish Ideas for John Wayne Casserole

• Classic Green Salad: A refreshing green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious cheese and sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a nice crunch and balances the flavors.
• Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are a fun side that pairs wonderfully with the casserole.
• Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans would complement the dish perfectly.
• Seasonal Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can provide a sweet contrast to the savory casserole.

FAQ

Conclusion

The John Wayne Casserole is truly a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its scrumptious layers of flavor make it a favorite among families and friends alike. I encourage you to try making this casserole; it’s not just a meal, it’s an experience. Serve it at your next gathering, and watch everyone fall in love with it just like I did. You won’t regret it!

John Wayne Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, the John Wayne Casserole is a hearty blend of ground beef, flaky biscuits, and creamy cheese. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for family gatherings, bringing warmth and satisfaction in every bite. You'll want to make it tonight!

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 47 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 12 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 can Grands biscuits
• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 cup onion, diced
• ½ cup bell pepper, diced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can diced green chiles, drained
• 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chiles, drained
• ¾ cup sour cream
• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• 2 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded and divided

Equipment

• Oven
• Cutting Board
• Baking Sheet
• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating, grab a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures that your casserole comes out easily and the biscuits don’t stick.
2. In a large skillet, cook 2 pounds of lean ground beef over medium-high heat. Stir it occasionally until there’s no pink left, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Be sure to drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
3. Add 1 cup of diced onion and ½ cup of diced bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion turns translucent. You'll know it’s ready when the onions are soft and fragrant.
4. Next, stir in 1 packet of taco seasoning, 1 (4-ounce) can of diced green chiles, and 1 (10-ounce) can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chiles. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through and slightly thickened. The mixture should be bubbling gently.
5. In a small bowl, combine ¾ cup of sour cream, ¾ cup of mayonnaise, and ½ cup of the 2 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. This creamy mixture will add a luscious layer to your casserole.
6. Open the 1 (16.3-ounce) can of Grands biscuits and remove the biscuits. Press them into the bottom of your prepared casserole dish, stretching and pinching them as necessary to cover the entire base.
7. Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes until they’re lightly golden. This step gives the base a nice, firm foundation for the toppings.
8. Once the biscuits are done, remove them from the oven and layer the beef mixture evenly over the top. Then, spread the creamy mixture as evenly as possible. The combination of flavors here is what makes the John Wayne Casserole so delicious!
9. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This is where the magic happens as it melts during baking!
10. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is fully melted and starts to turn a lovely golden brown. When it’s done, the entire dish should be bubbling and inviting.
11. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This casserole is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven!

Notes

• In the Refrigerator: Place leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• To Reheat: Reheat in the microwave for 45-60 seconds per serving.
• Make Ahead: The meat filling and cream topping can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. When you are ready to assemble the casserole, continue with step 5 and par-bake the biscuits before moving on.
• Freeze It: Once John Wayne casserole has been fully cooked, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before wrapping it in 2-3 layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. To reheat it, it’s best to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 45 minutes or so, until the center of the casserole reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

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Meet Rose Kelley

I’m happiest when I have dirt under my fingernails and fresh herbs in my hand. I bring a garden-to-table philosophy to our group. I’m always tossing handfuls of fresh basil or mint into our pots, looking for that pop of freshness. I love cooking alongside Maya to ensure our meals feel vibrant and alive. I participate in every step, from the initial chopping to the final taste test!