John Wayne Casserole
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This hearty, Tex-Mex inspired casserole is the ultimate comfort food — layers of seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and a creamy cheese topping baked over a golden biscuit crust. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving something warm, filling, and full of flavor.
My family devours this every time I make it, and I love that it comes together in one pan with minimal cleanup. Make it once and it’ll be on regular rotation — promise!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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✅ One-pan meal with layers of flavor
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✅ Great for feeding a hungry crowd
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✅ Easy to customize based on spice level or available ingredients
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✅ Leftovers reheat beautifully
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✅ Comforting and full of veggies!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Base & Beef
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2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for the best flavor)
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1 packet taco seasoning
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1 can (16 oz) large refrigerated biscuits
For the Creamy Cheese Layer
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½ cup sour cream
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½ cup mayonnaise
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8 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
For the Vegetables
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1 medium onion, halved and sliced
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2 medium tomatoes, sliced
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1 red bell pepper, halved and sliced
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4 oz canned jalapeño slices (adjust for heat)
How to Make It
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 13×9 glass baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. Bake the Biscuit Base
Press biscuits into an even layer in the bottom of your baking dish, pressing slightly up the sides. Place the dish on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. This step helps prevent a soggy bottom — don’t skip it!
3. Brown the Beef
While the biscuits are baking, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease, then stir in taco seasoning and water per package instructions. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Prep the Veggies
In the same skillet, sauté half the onions and the red bell pepper until slightly softened. Pat tomato slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
5. Mix the Cheese Layer
In a bowl, combine sour cream, mayo, half the shredded cheese, and the remaining raw onion slices. Stir until smooth.
6. Assemble the Layers
Layer ingredients over the baked biscuit crust in this order:
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Seasoned beef
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Tomato slices
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Sautéed peppers and onions
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Jalapeños
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Sour cream/cheese mixture
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Sprinkle with remaining shredded cheese
7. Bake
Return the dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for 30–40 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing — this helps everything set nicely.
Helpful Tips
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Pre-baking the biscuit crust is key to avoiding sogginess.
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Drain your beef well so the base stays nice and firm.
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Use block cheese and shred it yourself for better melting.
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Don’t skip the rest time after baking — it helps with slicing clean portions!
Make It Ahead
You can prep the meat and veggies up to 2 days ahead and store them separately in the fridge. The cheese mixture can be made a day ahead too. Assemble just before baking for best results!
Recipe Swaps & Add-Ons
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Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
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Adjust the heat: Use mild or hot peppers depending on preference.
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Extra veggies: Add corn, black beans, or olives for variety.
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Add richness: A layer of refried beans between the meat and tomatoes adds delicious creaminess and helps hold it all together.
What to Serve With It
This casserole is filling on its own but pairs beautifully with:
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Mexican street corn
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Guacamole and tortilla chips
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Spanish rice or cilantro-lime rice
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Simple green salad with lime vinaigrette
Storing & Reheating
Let the casserole cool completely before storing. Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture or microwave individual portions for a quick lunch.
FAQ
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare all the components in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving.
Can I freeze it?
It’s possible, but not recommended — the biscuit crust and veggies may get soggy when thawed.
Why is it called John Wayne Casserole?
The exact origin is fuzzy, but this bold, hearty dish is said to match the rugged spirit of the legendary actor.
Is it spicy?
It has a mild kick from the jalapeños, but you can easily tone it down or turn it up!
Classic Comfort With a Southwestern Twist
John Wayne Casserole is the kind of no-fuss, satisfying dinner that brings everyone to the table. With creamy, cheesy goodness layered over hearty beef and fresh veggies, it’s a guaranteed win on busy nights or when you’re hosting friends and family.
