Looking for a hearty, flavor-packed meal that everyone at the table will rave about? Enter the legendary John Wayne Casserole. Inspired by the rugged cowboy himself, this dish layers savory beef, zesty spices, creamy goodness, and a golden biscuit crust into one unforgettable bake. It’s comfort food at its best—perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or potlucks where you want to impress without stress.
🍽 What Is John Wayne Casserole?
This casserole is built on layers that make every bite exciting. A soft biscuit base holds seasoned ground beef mixed with tomatoes and peppers, topped with a creamy blend of sour cream, mayo, and cheddar cheese. Add more gooey cheddar on top, bake until bubbly, and you’ve got a meal that’s both filling and full of bold Southwestern flavors.
🧾 Ingredients
| Component | Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Meat Layer | Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Taco seasoning | 1 packet | |
| Water | 1 cup | |
| Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), drained | 1 can (10 oz) | |
| Chopped onion (optional) | ½ cup | |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | |
| Creamy Layer | Sour cream | ½ cup |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup (mixed into cream layer) | |
| Crust & Topping | Refrigerated biscuit dough | 1 can (8-count) |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup (for topping) |
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Oven and Skillet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned, then drain excess grease.
2. Season the Beef
Stir in taco seasoning and water, simmering for 5 minutes until absorbed. Add Rotel and onion (if using) and cook another 2–3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Build the Biscuit Base
Press biscuit dough evenly across the bottom of the baking dish, overlapping pieces to form a crust.
4. Layer the Casserole
Spread the beef mixture on top of the biscuits. In a bowl, mix sour cream, mayo, and 1 cup cheddar, then spread over the beef. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar across the top.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the biscuit crust is cooked through. Rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.