- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1–2 jalapeños, sliced (optional)
- 1 large tomato, diced (or 1 can diced tomatoes, drained)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Nonstick spray or butter, for greasing
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Add Seasoning
Add taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water to the beef. Simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat.
Building and Layering Your John Wayne Casserole
Now comes the fun part: layering all those delicious flavors. The soft biscuit base, rich beef, creamy cheese layer, and fresh veggies combine into the ultimate comfort food.
Step 4: Form the Biscuit Crust
Press the refrigerated biscuit dough evenly into the bottom (and slightly up the sides) of your prepared baking dish to make a crust.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Cheese Layer
In a bowl, stir together sour cream, mayonnaise, and half of the shredded cheddar (about 1/2 cup) until smooth. Spread evenly over the biscuit crust.
Step 6: Add the Beef
Spread the seasoned beef evenly over the creamy layer.
Step 7: Add the Veggies
Scatter diced onion, green bell pepper, jalapeños (if using), and tomatoes over the beef. Use canned tomatoes if that’s what you have—just drain them well.
Step 8: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle on the rest of the cheddar cheese and all the Monterey Jack cheese for a gooey, cheesy topping.
Step 9: Bake the Casserole
Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. For an extra crispy top, broil for a minute or two at the end.
Step 10: Let It Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before cutting and serving. Top with more sour cream, jalapeños, or chopped green onions if you want to garnish.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This John Wayne Casserole
This casserole is easy to assemble, packed with bold flavors, and endlessly customizable. Its biscuit base, creamy filling, and cheesy topping make it the ultimate comfort food—great for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Once you try it, you’ll see why so many families keep this recipe in regular rotation.
