Named after the legendary actor John Wayne, this casserole is just as bold and hearty as the man himself. John Wayne Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. It’s a Southwestern-inspired casserole that features layers of ground beef, vegetables, biscuits, and cheese, all baked together for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal. The combination of spicy flavors, creamy cheese, and a tender biscuit base makes this a casserole everyone will love. Stick around to learn how to make this classic recipe and customize it to suit your taste!
What is John Wayne Casserole?
John Wayne Casserole is a flavorful, layered dish that typically includes seasoned ground beef, chopped bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, a rich sour cream-mayo mixture, and lots of cheese, all baked on top of a biscuit base. The result is a cheesy, creamy, and slightly spicy casserole with a crispy biscuit bottom that pairs perfectly with the hearty beef and vegetables. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a Southwestern twist.
Ingredients List for John Wayne Casserole
To make this hearty John Wayne Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 1 tablespoon homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained (such as Rotel)
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (such as Pillsbury Grands)
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or Monterey Jack for a more Southwest flavor)
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Substitutions and Variations for John Wayne Casserole
Want to make this casserole your own? Here are some easy substitutions and variations to customize it:
- Ground turkey or chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Spicy or mild: Adjust the level of heat by using mild or hot diced tomatoes with green chilies. You can also add jalapeños for extra spice or use bell peppers for a milder dish.
- Taco seasoning alternatives: If you don’t have taco seasoning, you can use a mix of cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika to achieve a similar flavor.
- Vegetarian option: Omit the ground beef and substitute it with cooked black beans or pinto beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Add veggies: Include more vegetables like corn, black beans, or even zucchini for extra texture and flavor.
- Extra cheesy: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack, Colby Jack, or even a sharp cheddar for more depth.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make this iconic John Wayne Casserole:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Season the beef: Stir in the taco seasoning, canned diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained), and diced green chilies. Cook for another 5 minutes to let the flavors combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Prepare the biscuit base: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter. Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough and press the dough into the bottom of the dish, spreading it evenly to form the base.
- Prepare the creamy topping: In a medium bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese until well combined.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread the seasoned ground beef mixture evenly over the biscuit base. Then, spoon the sour cream mixture over the beef, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the biscuit base is cooked through.
- Cool slightly and serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, green onions, or jalapeños if desired.
How to Cook John Wayne Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the ground beef with onions and bell peppers, then add taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and green chilies.
- Press biscuit dough into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish to form the base.
- Mix sour cream, mayo, and cheeses in a bowl.
- Layer beef mixture over the biscuit base, then spread the sour cream mixture on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making John Wayne Casserole, watch out for these common mistakes to ensure a perfect dish:
- Undercooking the biscuit base: Make sure the biscuit dough is fully cooked by baking the casserole long enough. If the top browns too quickly, cover the dish with foil and continue baking until the base is cooked through.
- Not draining the beef: If you skip draining the ground beef, the casserole may become greasy. Make sure to drain any excess fat after browning the beef.
- Over-seasoning: Be mindful of the taco seasoning packet. Some can be quite salty, so taste the beef mixture before adding any additional salt.
- Soggy base: Avoid letting the beef mixture sit too long on the biscuit dough before baking, as it can make the base soggy. Assemble the casserole and bake immediately for best results.
Serving and Presentation Tips
John Wayne Casserole is a hearty dish, but you can elevate it with thoughtful serving and presentation:
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Add chopped fresh cilantro or green onions on top for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
- Serve with a side salad: A light side salad with crisp greens, avocado, and a tangy lime dressing will complement the richness of the casserole.
- Offer toppings: Serve with toppings like salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños to add even more Southwestern flair.
How to Serve John Wayne Casserole
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas for serving it:
- Main dish: Serve the casserole as the star of the meal, accompanied by sides like cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad.
- Potluck dish: This casserole is perfect for potlucks or large gatherings. It’s easy to transport and serve, and the hearty layers will feed a crowd.
- Leftovers: Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or oven, making it a great option for meal prepping or enjoying over the next few days.
Presentation Ideas for John Wayne Casserole
Elevate your casserole presentation with these ideas:
- Skillet style: If you have a large cast iron skillet, consider baking the casserole directly in the skillet for a rustic, Southern-style presentation.
- Individual servings: For a more elegant presentation, portion the casserole into ramekins or individual oven-safe dishes for single servings.
- Garnish with toppings: Top each serving with a spoonful of sour cream, a sprinkle of cheese, or even some fresh salsa for added flavor and visual appeal.
John Wayne Casserole Recipe Tips
Here are a few extra tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfect:
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold from the fridge.
- Freeze for later: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the dish, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
- Use homemade taco seasoning: If you prefer to control the seasoning, make your own taco seasoning with a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make John Wayne Casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or when entertaining guests.
Q: Can I freeze John Wayne Casserole?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as usual.
Q: What other cheeses can I use?
A: You can experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a sharp cheddar for extra flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top can also add a nice touch.
Q: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or a plant-based meat alternative to create a hearty vegetarian version.
Q: How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
John Wayne Casserole is a true comfort food classic, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures in one easy-to-make dish. With layers of seasoned ground beef, a creamy cheese topping, and a tender biscuit base, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this hearty and flavorful casserole delivers every time. Give it a try, and enjoy the bold flavors of the Southwest with this legendary dish!
PrintJohn Wayne Casserole Recipe
John Wayne Casserole is a classic, layered casserole featuring ground beef, cheddar cheese, biscuits, and a flavorful blend of peppers and tomatoes. This hearty dish is loaded with Tex-Mex flavors, making it perfect for a filling family dinner or potluck. Easy to prepare, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Canned biscuits
- Onion (chopped)
- Bell peppers (chopped)
- Canned diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- Sour cream
- Mayonnaise
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
- Taco seasoning
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 baking dish.
- Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, adding chopped onions and bell peppers. Season with taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Drain excess fat.
- Spread the canned biscuits in the bottom of the prepared dish, pressing them slightly to form a base.
- Layer the cooked beef mixture evenly over the biscuit base.
- In a bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and shredded cheeses. Spread this creamy mixture over the beef.
- Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies as the next layer.
- Top with more shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the biscuit base is cooked through.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra spice, use hot diced tomatoes with green chilies or add jalapeños.
- Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Serve with a side of salsa or guacamole for extra Tex-Mex flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ⅛ of casserole
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 1050mg
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