Description
John Wayne Casserole is a hearty, flavorful layered casserole featuring a biscuit crust topped with seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, jalapeños, and creamy cheese mixtures. This dish combines Tex-Mex flavors with a satisfying baked casserole format perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Meat Layer
- 2 pounds ground beef, browned and drained
- 1 ounce packet taco seasoning plus water as directed on the packet
Crust
- 16 ounce can large biscuits
Cheese and Cream Mixture
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
Vegetables and Extras
- 1 medium onion, halved and sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, halved and sliced
- 4 ounces canned sliced jalapeño peppers
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and position the oven rack in the center. Lightly spray a 13x9 inch glass baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Biscuit Crust: Place the large biscuits in a single layer in the baking dish, pressing them together and pressing the dough halfway up the sides of the pan to form a crust. Set the baking pan on a baking sheet. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, checking closely after 12 minutes until the edges are lightly browned. Remove from oven and keep oven on.
- Cook Taco Meat: While the crust is baking, combine the browned ground beef with taco seasoning and the amount of water specified on the seasoning packet. Cook according to the packet instructions until fully incorporated and flavorful. Transfer the cooked taco meat to a bowl and wipe out the pan used for cooking meat.
- Mix Cheese and Cream Layer: In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, half of the shredded cheddar cheese (4 oz), and half of the sliced onions. Stir thoroughly and set aside. This will serve as a creamy, cheesy layer in the casserole.
- Sauté Vegetables: Using the cleaned taco meat pan, sauté the remaining half of the sliced onions and the sliced red bell pepper until they are slightly tender but still vibrant. This adds flavor and texture to the casserole.
- Assemble Casserole: On top of the baked biscuit crust, layer the ingredients in this order: cooked taco meat, sliced tomatoes, sautéed bell pepper and onion mixture, canned sliced jalapeño peppers, and then spread the sour cream mixture evenly over the top. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 4 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake to Finish: Bake the casserole uncovered at 350°F for 30-40 minutes, or until the edges of the biscuit crust are lightly browned again and the cheese topping is fully melted and bubbly. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Ensure ground beef is well browned and drained to avoid excess grease in the casserole.
- Adjust jalapeño pepper quantity to your preferred spice level.
- Using a baking sheet under the dish helps catch any potential drips from the biscuit crust baking.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow layers to set before serving.
- You can substitute homemade taco seasoning if preferred for a fresher taste or dietary needs.
