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John Wayne Casserole

John Wayne Casserole is a hearty, crowd-pleasing Tex-Mex dish featuring a homemade biscuit-like crust layered with savory ground beef, vegetables, and a creamy cheesy topping. This comforting casserole is versatile and make-ahead friendly, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

Crust
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
  • 3/4 cup whole milk
Filling
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies drained
Cheesy Topping
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided (1 cup mixed into topping, 1 cup sprinkled on top)
  • 1 small tomato sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large bowl
  • Whisk
  • Large skillet

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cut in 1/2 cup cold, cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in 3/4 cup whole milk until a soft dough forms, then press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Once the meat is cooked through, add 1 diced medium yellow onion and 1 diced green bell pepper, cooking until they have softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in 1 packet of taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water, then allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Spoon this seasoned beef mixture over the crust in the baking dish, then top evenly with the drained can of diced tomatoes with green chilies.
  5. In a separate bowl, mix together 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Spread the creamy mixture over the beef layer.
  6. Arrange the sliced small tomato on top, then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole.
  7. Bake the casserole for about 30-35 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the crust is golden brown. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

This casserole is extremely versatile: feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or chicken, or use dairy-free alternatives like plant-based sour cream and cheese to suit your dietary needs. It can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, making busy weeknights easier. Serving it with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or Mexican-style sides like cilantro lime rice adds a refreshing contrast to its rich flavors.