Description
John Wayne Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Base Layer:
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel), drained
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) pinto or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Biscuit Layer:
2 cups (250 g) all-purpose baking mix (e.g., Bisquick)
1/2 cup (120 ml) water
Topping Layer:
1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
1/2 cup (120 g) mayonnaise
2 cups (225 g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 medium green bell pepper, diced
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
Cook Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until cooked through. Drain excess grease. Stir in taco seasoning, tomatoes, and beans. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Prepare Biscuit Base:
In a medium bowl, mix the baking mix and water until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the greased baking dish.
Assemble Layers:
Spread the beef mixture over the biscuit base.
Prepare Topping:
In a separate bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and the diced bell peppers. Spread this mixture evenly over the beef layer.
Add Cheese and Bake:
Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and serve warm.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6-8
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect casserole. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped: dice onions and bell peppers, drain tomatoes and beans, and shred cheese if not pre-shredded. Preheat your oven and grease the dish thoroughly. For the beef layer, cook until no pink remains, then drain all excess fat to prevent a greasy base. When pressing the biscuit dough, use slightly wet fingers to prevent sticking and create a uniform layer. For the creamy topping, mix the sour cream and mayonnaise until completely smooth before adding cheese and peppers to ensure even distribution. Finally, let the baked casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing; this allows the layers to set for cleaner serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a lime vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a Tex-Mex spread, serve alongside tortilla chips, fresh salsa, and guacamole. Cooling toppings like a dollop of extra sour cream or a quick pico de gallo are excellent additions. Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave for a quick lunch.
How-to Summary
Brown beef with onion, mix in seasoning, tomatoes, and beans. Press a simple baking mix dough into a dish as the base. Layer the beef over the dough. Combine sour cream, mayo, part of the cheese, and diced peppers for a creamy topping, spreading it over the beef. Top with remaining cheese and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with green onions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of baking mix (Bisquick)? Make a substitute by mixing 2 cups flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 5 tablespoons of cold butter. Then mix with 1/2 cup water or milk.
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat alternative work well. Ensure you adjust seasoning to taste.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole? It freezes best before baking. Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Draining the Beef: Leaving excess grease will make the biscuit base soggy.
- Over-mixing the Biscuit Dough: Mix just until combined; overworking makes it tough.
- Using Wet Ingredients in the Topping: Ensure tomatoes and beans are well-drained, and pat diced peppers dry to prevent a watery topping.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Cutting immediately after baking causes the layers to slump. Let it set.
- Overbaking: The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly. Overbaking can dry out the creamy layer.
Conclusion
The John Wayne Casserole is the epitome of hearty, comforting, and crowd-pleasing fare. Its layers of savory beef, soft biscuit, and creamy, cheesy topping create a satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you can achieve a perfectly baked casserole every time. Its versatility with ingredients and make-ahead potential makes it a reliable staple for any home cook’s recipe collection. Dig in and enjoy a taste of classic, comforting flavor.