If you love casseroles that come out of the oven bubbling, cheesy, and packed with bold flavor,
families: a savory ground beef base, a creamy cheesy layer, and a golden biscuit-style crust that holds everything
together like the ultimate comfort-food “pie.”
This dish has become a classic because it checks every box: easy ingredients, big flavor, and leftovers that reheat
like a dream. It’s perfect for weeknights, potlucks, game-day spreads, and those “what can I feed everyone fast?”
moments. Make it once, and you’ll understand why people say: don’t lose this recipe!
Introduction:
John Wayne Casserole is often described as a Tex-Mex-inspired layered bake. The magic is in the contrast:
a sturdy, slightly crisp base (usually biscuits), a seasoned beef layer with peppers and onions, and a rich,
creamy topping that melts into the whole casserole as it bakes. It’s cozy, flavorful, and unapologetically comforting.
There are many versions floating around, but the best ones keep the same core idea: savory meat + creamy cheese + golden crust.
This recipe is designed to be reliable with clear layering, balanced seasoning, and tips to prevent soggy crust or greasy filling.
You can also customize the heat level and toppings depending on your family’s taste.
Serve it with a simple salad, tortilla chips, or a side of rice—and you’ve got a full meal that makes people ask for seconds.
Ingredients:
Serves 8 (9×13-inch casserole).
Base Layer
- Refrigerated biscuit dough: 1 can (8-count) or ~16 oz (450 g)
- Optional: 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing the crust)
Beef Layer
- Ground beef: 1 1/2 lb (680 g)
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Bell pepper: 1 medium, diced (green or red)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Taco seasoning: 2 tbsp (or 1 packet)
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: 1 can (10 oz / 283 g), drained
- Salt & pepper: to taste
Creamy Cheese Layer
- Cream cheese: 8 oz (225 g), softened
- Sour cream: 1 cup
- Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup
- Shredded cheddar: 2 cups, divided
- Shredded Monterey Jack: 1 cup (or more cheddar)
- Optional heat: sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
Toppings (Optional but Recommended)
- Green onions, chopped
- Fresh cilantro
- Tomatoes, diced
- Hot sauce
- Crushed tortilla chips (for crunch)
Ingredient tip: Drain the tomatoes and green chilies well so the casserole doesn’t get watery.
Also, using 80/20 beef is fine—just drain excess grease after browning.
