The Best John Wayne Casserole Recipe

John Wayne Casserole is a rich, flavorful, and hearty dish named after the legendary American actor. It combines layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, biscuit dough, and a cheesy topping that melts beautifully into every bite. This easy casserole is a true comfort food—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you want a filling, home-cooked meal with bold Southwestern flavors.

What Is John Wayne Casserole?

John Wayne Casserole is a baked dish made with layers of biscuit dough, ground beef, tomatoes, bell peppers, and a creamy, cheesy topping. The combination of spices, creamy sauce, and melted cheese gives it a satisfying Tex-Mex flair. Originally inspired by a recipe linked to John Wayne’s charity cookbook, it has evolved into a beloved family classic that’s both easy to make and deeply comforting.

Other Popular Casserole Recipes

• Tuna Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup
• Tuna Casserole with Green Beans
• Tuna Casserole
• Tuna Casserole with Egg Noodles

Reasons to Try John Wayne Casserole

• Hearty and Filling – Packed with layers of beef, cheese, and biscuit base for a complete meal.
• Easy to Make – Uses common ingredients with simple layering steps.
• Crowd-Pleasing – Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
• Flavorful and Cheesy – Combines creamy sour cream with spicy taco seasoning and gooey melted cheese.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be assembled early and baked when ready.
• Balanced Texture – Crispy biscuit base with creamy and savory layers on top.

Ingredients Needed to Make John Wayne Casserole

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel-style)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough or 2 cups homemade biscuit mix
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions to Prepare John Wayne Casserole

• Preheat the oven – Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
• Cook the beef – Heat olive oil in a skillet, add ground beef, and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
• Add seasonings and vegetables – Stir in taco seasoning, onions, and bell peppers. Cook for 5 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly. Add diced tomatoes and simmer for another 5 minutes.
• Prepare the biscuit base – Press biscuit dough into the bottom of the baking dish, flattening evenly across the surface. Pre-bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden.
• Mix the creamy layer – In a bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well and set aside.
• Assemble the casserole – Layer the cooked beef mixture over the biscuit base. Spread the creamy sour cream mixture on top, then sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese.
• Bake until bubbly – Bake for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
• Cool before serving – Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing for easier serving.

What Goes Well With John Wayne Casserole

• Simple Green Salad – Balances the richness with freshness.
• Mexican Rice – A perfect side that complements the taco-seasoned filling.
• Cornbread – Adds a soft, slightly sweet contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables – Brings color and lightness to the meal.
• Tortilla Chips – Great for scooping up the cheesy layers.

Key Tips for Making John Wayne Casserole

• Use lean beef – Prevents too much grease in the casserole.
• Pre-bake the biscuits – Keeps the bottom layer firm and prevents sogginess.
• Balance the spice – Adjust taco seasoning and chilies according to your taste.
• Add extra cheese – A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack enhances flavor.
• Let it rest – This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
• Try different bases – Crescent rolls or cornbread mix can replace biscuit dough.
• Top with fresh garnish – Add green onions, cilantro, or diced tomatoes for a fresh finish.

Creative Variations of John Wayne Casserole

• Chicken Version – Use shredded cooked chicken instead of ground beef.
• Vegetarian Twist – Substitute beef with black beans, corn, and mushrooms.
• Spicy Style – Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.
• Breakfast Casserole – Replace beef with breakfast sausage and add scrambled eggs.
• Low-Carb Option – Skip the biscuit base and bake the beef mixture with extra vegetables.
• Tex-Mex Deluxe – Top with avocado slices, salsa, and sour cream before serving.

Storage Guidelines for John Wayne Casserole

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing – Wrap tightly in foil or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Defrosting – Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Avoid overbaking on reheat – Cover with foil to maintain moisture.
• Label before freezing – Helps you keep track of freshness dates.

Reheating Tips for John Wayne Casserole

• Oven Method – Reheat covered at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until hot.
• Microwave Method – Heat individual servings for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Air Fryer Method – Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5–6 minutes for a crisp top layer.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Protein: 28 g
• Fat: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sodium: 880 mg
• Calcium: 220 mg

FAQs

Why is it called John Wayne Casserole?

The dish is named after the famous actor John Wayne, who contributed a version of this recipe to a charity cookbook in the 1970s. His original version featured layers of beef, vegetables, and a creamy topping, which evolved over time into the modern Tex-Mex–style casserole we enjoy today.

How do you keep the biscuit base from getting soggy in John Wayne casserole?

To prevent a soggy base, pre-bake the biscuit dough for about 8–10 minutes before adding the beef mixture. This creates a firm, golden layer that holds up well under the creamy sauce and toppings. Also, make sure to drain excess grease from the cooked ground beef.

Can I make John Wayne casserole ahead of time?

Yes, this casserole can be assembled up to a day ahead. Simply layer the ingredients, cover the dish, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes and then bake as directed. This makes it a perfect make-ahead dinner for busy evenings.

How can I make John Wayne casserole spicier?

To add more heat, use spicy taco seasoning, add diced jalapeños or green chilies, or substitute pepper jack cheese for part of the cheddar. You can also drizzle hot sauce or salsa on top before baking for an extra bold flavor.

Final Words

John Wayne Casserole is the kind of dish that never disappoints—hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With its layers of biscuit crust, seasoned beef, and creamy, cheesy topping, it’s a perfect mix of comfort and bold taste. Serve it fresh from the oven for a meal that’s sure to impress family and guests alike, turning a simple dinner into something unforgettable.

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