Description
John Wayne Casserole is a hearty, Tex-Mex inspired dish featuring a savory ground beef and vegetable filling layered over a biscuit dough crust, topped with a creamy sour cream and cheese mixture, then baked to golden perfection. This comforting casserole makes a filling meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
Creamy Cheese Topping
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Press the refrigerated biscuit dough evenly into the bottom of the dish, making sure to seal seams to form a consistent crust. Bake the crust for 10 minutes until it is lightly set but not fully cooked.
- Cook the beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion until the beef is fully browned. Drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add vegetables and seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chopped green bell pepper into the beef mixture. Allow it to simmer gently for 5 minutes so the flavors meld, then remove the skillet from heat.
- Make the creamy cheese mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the partially baked biscuit crust in the baking dish.
- Add sour cream layer: Spread the sour cream and cheese mixture over the beef layer evenly to ensure each slice will be creamy and flavorful.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole for a cheesy, golden finish.
- Bake the casserole: Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Once baked, let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow it to set for easier serving.
Notes
- Baking the biscuit crust partially before adding the filling prevents sogginess and ensures a firm base.
- Drain excess grease from the cooked ground beef to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
- You can substitute the canned tomatoes with fresh diced tomatoes if preferred, but make sure to drain well to avoid excess moisture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- For a spicier version, add extra green chilies or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
