If you’re craving a satisfying and flavorful comfort food dish that feeds a crowd, the John Wayne Casserole is exactly what you need. Bursting with layers of spiced beef, creamy vegetables, and a golden biscuit crust, this beloved classic combines bold Southwestern flavors with homestyle simplicity.
Originally inspired by a recipe attributed to the legendary actor John Wayne, this casserole has evolved into a family favorite for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and cozy weekends. With its creamy filling, cheesy topping, and perfectly baked crust, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- 2/3 cup water
For the Filling
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Serves: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the biscuit mix and water until a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to create the base layer.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Drain any excess fat and add chopped onion, green and red bell peppers.
- Sauté for 5–6 minutes until vegetables soften.
- Stir in chili powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Layer
- In a separate bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the cooked crust.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Spoon the beef and vegetable mixture over the creamy layer.
- Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with chopped green onions, jalapeños, or a sprinkle of paprika.
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad or roasted corn.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for a Tex-Mex twist.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/8 of casserole) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 22 grams |
| Total Fat | 27 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 10 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 25 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sugars | 5 grams |
| Sodium | 690 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Rich in protein from ground beef and cheese for a satisfying main course.
- Bell peppers add vitamin C and a subtle sweetness.
- For a lighter version, use ground turkey, reduced-fat sour cream, and low-fat cheese.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t overmix the biscuit dough — it should be just combined for a tender crust.
- If you like it spicy, use pepper jack cheese or add a few diced jalapeños.
- The casserole reheats beautifully and can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes for best texture.
The John Wayne Casserole is more than just a meal — it’s a hearty, comforting dish that combines bold Southwestern flavors with down-home simplicity. Whether served as a family dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck favorite, this recipe brings comfort, flavor, and nostalgia to every bite.
Try it once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen rotation.