Description
John Wayne Casserole is a hearty and flavorful southwestern-inspired baked dish featuring seasoned ground beef layered with a creamy cheese and green chili mixture, fresh vegetables, and a golden biscuit crust made from Bisquick. This easy-to-make family favorite combines taco seasoning with comforting cheese and vegetable toppings to create a satisfying main course perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 2/3 cup water (for seasoning)
Vegetables and Mix-ins
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained)
- 1 medium onion (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
Dairy and Cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Biscuit Crust
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 1/2 cup water (for biscuit layer)
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from being too oily.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning mix and 2/3 cup water with the cooked beef. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then remove from heat.
- Prepare Biscuit Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine Bisquick baking mix and 1/2 cup water until a soft dough forms. This will serve as the biscuit base for the casserole.
- Press Biscuit Base: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Press the biscuit dough evenly into the bottom of the dish to form the crust layer.
- Layer Beef: Spread the cooked and seasoned ground beef evenly over the biscuit base.
- Mix Cream and Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and diced green chilies. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the beef layer.
- Add Vegetables: Arrange sliced onions and green bell peppers over the creamy layer, then add the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies on top.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese and the Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and the biscuit crust is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before cutting and serving to let the layers set and flavors intensify.
Notes
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter variation.
- Add jalapeños if you prefer a spicier dish.
- Black olives can be added for extra flavor and texture.
- This casserole reheats well and is perfect for leftovers.
