Description
John Wayne Casserole is a hearty Tex-Mex inspired dish combining seasoned ground beef, a biscuit base, and layers of creamy cheese and jalapeños. This baked casserole is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a delicious blend of savory, spicy, and creamy flavors all in one easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Layer
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- ½ cup water
- 1 (16 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- Salt and pepper to taste
Biscuit Layer
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix (like Bisquick)
- ½ cup water
Cheese & Cream Layer
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- 1 (8 oz) can sliced jalapeños (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Ground Beef and Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is fully browned and the onion has softened. Drain any excess fat to reduce grease in the casserole.
- Add Seasoning and Tomatoes: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and ½ cup water to the cooked beef mixture. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld. Then, fold in the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Prepare Biscuit Dough: In a separate bowl, combine the biscuit baking mix with ½ cup water until a soft dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of the greased baking dish to create the biscuit layer.
- Assemble Beef Layer: Spread the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the biscuit dough layer, ensuring full coverage.
- Mix and Add Cream Cheese Layer: In another bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the beef layer.
- Add Remaining Cheese and Jalapeños: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheeses on top. If desired, arrange sliced jalapeños evenly over the cheese for an extra spicy kick.
- Bake: Place casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges of the biscuit layer turn golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes to set before slicing into portions and serving.
Notes
- This casserole is packed with Tex-Mex flavor and is great for feeding a crowd.
- You can prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate before baking to save time.
- For added variety, consider including diced bell peppers or black beans in the beef mixture.
- Adjust jalapeño quantity or omit to suit your preferred spice level.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.
