This satisfying casserole delivers all the bold flavors of the Wild West—no open flame required. Inspired by the iconic cowboy actor, John Wayne Casserole is a hearty, layered dish that has become a beloved comfort food favorite. With seasoned beef, spicy accents, a creamy layer, and a biscuit crust, it’s a go-to for feeding a hungry crowd or making weeknight dinners extra cozy.
What Is John Wayne Casserole?
It’s a warm, oven-baked dish built in layers—starting with a soft biscuit base, topped with taco-seasoned ground beef, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and onions. Continues…
That’s followed by a creamy mixture of sour cream, mayo, and cheddar cheese, then finished with more melty cheese on top. This dish is a hit at potlucks, family dinners, or anytime comfort food is calling.
Ingredients
| Layer | 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 (mixed in) | 1 cup | |
| Crust & Topping | Refrigerated biscuit dough (8-count) | 1 can |
| Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping) | 1 cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Get the Oven and Beef Ready
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet