John Wayne Casserole

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If you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, John Wayne Casserole is the kind of comfort food that checks all the boxes. I first made it on a chilly weeknight, looking for a dish that would warm up the kitchen and leave everyone asking for seconds — and it did not disappoint. With its layers of seasoned ground beef, tangy sour cream, and melty cheddar cheese, this casserole delivers Tex-Mex flair in every bite.

What I love most about John Wayne Casserole is how simple it is to throw together, yet the end result tastes like you’ve put in hours. It’s great for meal prepping, feeding a crowd, or just spicing up your usual dinner routine. Whether you’re already a fan or have never tried it, this dish deserves a spot on your weekly rotation.

Why You’ll Love This John Wayne Casserole

This casserole is a crowd-pleaser that packs a punch of flavor with every layer. The spiced ground beef offers savory depth, balanced by creamy sour cream and cheese that gets bubbly and golden in the oven. Sweet pops of corn and a hint of tomato keep things interesting. Plus, it’s incredibly filling and reheats beautifully the next day.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

I recommend using lean ground beef (like 85/15) for this recipe. It provides great flavor without leaving too much grease behind. If you go with a fattier cut, just be sure to drain the excess fat after browning. Want to keep it lighter? Ground turkey or chicken works just as well.

Options for Substitutions

One of the great things about this casserole is how flexible it is. If you’re not a fan of sour cream, you can swap it with plain Greek yogurt for a tangy and protein-rich alternative. Not into cheddar? Try Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend cheese. Vegetarians can easily switch the beef with a plant-based ground or hearty black beans. You can even add jalapeños or green chilies for an extra kick.

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Ingredients for This John Wayne Casserole

Ground Beef: The main protein source that brings richness and savory depth to the dish.

Taco Seasoning: Adds bold, Tex-Mex flavor to the beef, making it the star of the casserole.

Onion (chopped): Provides aromatic sweetness and blends perfectly with the seasoned meat.

Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (Rotel): Adds moisture, tang, and a gentle heat that lifts the entire casserole.

Corn (frozen or canned): Adds subtle sweetness and extra texture that balances the richness of the dish.

Sour Cream: Brings creaminess and tang, creating a cool layer that contrasts the warm spices.

Mayonnaise: Blends with the sour cream for a richer, silkier texture in the creamy layer.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts over the casserole into a gooey, golden topping.

Bisquick or Biscuit Mix: Forms the soft, slightly sweet base that holds the whole casserole together.

Milk: Combines with the biscuit mix to create a fluffy, tender base layer.

Egg: Helps bind the biscuit layer and give it structure.

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Step 1: Prepare the Biscuit Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine Bisquick mix, milk, and egg. Stir until just combined, then spread the mixture evenly across the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This forms the soft, pillowy base that anchors the casserole.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent. Stir in taco seasoning, then add the diced tomatoes with green chilies and corn. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until everything is well combined and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Layer the Meat Over the Base

Spoon the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the biscuit base. This is where the flavor starts stacking.

Step 4: Mix and Spread the Creamy Layer

In a bowl, combine sour cream and mayonnaise. Mix well, then gently spread this layer over the beef. This creamy topping adds richness and a tangy balance to the spicy meat.

Step 5: Add Cheese Generously

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. Be generous — the cheese melts into a bubbly golden crust that makes the dish irresistible.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly

Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and the center is hot. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before slicing so the layers set properly.

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How Long to Prepare the John Wayne Casserole

Prep Time: Preparing the ingredients and layering the casserole usually takes about 20 minutes. This includes chopping the onion, browning the ground beef, and mixing the biscuit and sour cream layers.

Bake Time: Once assembled, the casserole bakes for 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Allow an additional 5 to 10 minutes to rest before serving so the layers can settle and slice cleanly.

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Tips for Perfect John Wayne Casserole

• Drain Excess Grease: After browning the ground beef, be sure to drain off any extra fat so the dish doesn’t turn out greasy.
• Even Layers: Spread each layer evenly across the dish for consistent texture and flavor in every bite.
• Use Room Temp Ingredients: Let the sour cream and mayo sit at room temperature for a few minutes to make spreading easier.
• Customize the Heat: Add jalapeños, chipotle, or hot sauce if you like it spicy, or keep it mild for family-friendly appeal.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cheese in the final minutes to make sure it bubbles and browns without drying out.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the Pre-Bake of the Biscuit Layer: If using a thicker biscuit base, a quick 5-minute pre-bake before layering can prevent sogginess.
• Too Much Liquid: Draining tomatoes and corn is essential to avoid a watery casserole.
• Underseasoning: Be generous with your taco seasoning and taste the beef mixture before layering.
• Overmixing the Biscuit Batter: Stir until just combined to keep the biscuit base tender.
• Not Letting It Rest: Cutting into it too soon can cause layers to fall apart. Give it a few minutes to set.

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What to Serve With John Wayne Casserole?

1. Fresh Garden Salad

A crisp salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.

2. Mexican Rice

Flavored with tomatoes and spices, it complements the Tex-Mex vibe of the dish.

3. Refried Beans

Creamy and savory, beans are a traditional side that add extra protein and comfort.

4. Guacamole and Chips

Fresh avocado dip with tortilla chips makes a tasty and cooling contrast.

5. Roasted Vegetables

A tray of roasted zucchini, peppers, and onions adds color and a healthy touch to the plate.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or the whole dish in the oven at 325°F until hot.

Freezer: This casserole freezes well. Once cooled, wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap or transfer to a freezer-safe dish. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Tips: To keep the biscuit base from getting soggy, reheat in the oven instead of the microwave when possible.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of Bisquick?

You can substitute with homemade biscuit mix using flour, baking powder, salt, and butter. Pre-made refrigerated biscuit dough also works in a pinch.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or seasoned black beans. Keep all the other layers the same.

Is this dish spicy?

It has mild heat from the diced tomatoes with green chilies, but it’s not overly spicy. For a kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely. Just use a larger baking dish or two 9×13 pans and increase the ingredient amounts proportionally.

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Conclusion

John Wayne Casserole is a tried-and-true comfort food classic that combines bold flavors, creamy richness, and an irresistible cheesy topping. Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining guests, or prepping meals for the week, this dish delivers satisfaction every single time. Its versatility and ease make it a permanent favorite in my recipe rotation, and I’m sure it’ll be one in yours too.

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