By This John Wayne Casserole balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
John Wayne Casserole captures the essence of desserts|cookies & biscuits while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, John Wayne Casserole becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 medium bell pepper, chopped
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), drained
1 packet taco seasoning
1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated biscuits
1 cup sour cream
1 cup mayonnaise
1 packet ranch dressing mix
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 (4-ounce) can sliced jalapeños (optional)
PREPARATION STEPS
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks
Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until the vegetables are softened
Stir in the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies, cooking for another 3-5 minutes.
Spread the biscuit dough in an even layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pre-bake the biscuits for 5 minutes until they are just beginning to puff.
Spread the beef mixture over the partially baked biscuit crust.
In a medium bowl, mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, and ranch dressing mix. Spread this mixture evenly over the beef.
Top the casserole with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, then add the optional sliced jalapeños for extra spice.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the biscuit base is cooked through.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Kcal: 520 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
ORIGIN STORY
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 35 min | Total: 55 min | Servings: 12 | Calories: ~320 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRING
Coffee; Tea; Vanilla ice cream; Fresh berries
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
