Description
Looking for a hearty, bold, and satisfying meal that doubles as a quick dinner idea and a crowd-pleaser? The John Wayne Casserole checks all the boxes! Packed with seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, zesty tomatoes, and a soft biscuit crust, this easy recipe brings Tex-Mex comfort straight to your dinner table. Whether you need food ideas for picky eaters, or are exploring new casserole recipes for busy nights, this flavorful dish is one of the best dinner ideas to keep in rotation.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1/2 cup water
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, green onions, chopped cilantro
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and water. Add drained diced tomatoes with green chilies and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. In another skillet (or same one), sauté chopped onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper until softened. Add corn, stir, and remove from heat.
5. Combine sautéed vegetables with the ground beef mixture and set aside.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Mix well.
7. Press biscuit dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, covering the surface and slightly up the sides.
8. Layer the beef and vegetable mixture over the biscuit base.
9. Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the beef layer.
10. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
11. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and biscuit crust is cooked through.
12. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with optional toppings before serving.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melt and flavor.
Ensure you drain excess fat and moisture from all ingredients to avoid sogginess.
Letting the casserole rest after baking helps the layers set for neater slices.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg