Hearty Beef and Biscuit Casserole: A Delicious John Wayne Original Recipe

Mastering john wayne casserole

The John Wayne casserole is a hearty and satisfying dinner that brings together layers of seasoned ground beef, a creamy cheese mixture, and fresh vegetables baked on a buttery biscuit crust. This dish offers a wonderful balance between comfort food and bold Tex-Mex flavors, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The mild spiciness from jalapeño peppers adds a subtle kick without overwhelming heat, ensuring it appeals to a wide range of palates.

Easy to assemble and bake, this casserole is not only flavorful but also provides a well-rounded meal with protein from the beef, hearty carbs from the biscuit crust, and fresh vegetables for added nutrition. Its layered approach allows the ingredients’ textures and flavors to meld beautifully in the oven, resulting in a golden, cheesy top and a deliciously moist interior.

This recipe’s adaptability makes it ideal for home cooks who want to serve something wholesome and straightforward without sacrificing taste or presentation. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or bringing a dish to a potluck, John Wayne casserole stands out for its rustic charm and fulfilling flavors.

Benefits and Advantages of john wayne casserole

The John Wayne casserole stands out for its simplicity and versatility, making it a favorite for both novice and experienced cooks. The ease of preparation—browning beef, mixing a creamy cheese base, and layering fresh vegetables on a biscuit crust—means that it can be ready in under an hour, saving time on busy evenings.

From a nutritional perspective, the dish offers a balanced meal with ample protein from the ground beef, carbohydrates from the biscuit base, and vitamins and fiber from onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. The inclusion of jalapeños adds antioxidants and promotes metabolism while contributing to the dish’s enticing Tex-Mex flair.

The recipe’s flexibility to customize with different cheeses, vegetable additions, or ground meat alternatives means it can cater to a variety of dietary preferences and ingredient availability. Its comforting textures and flavors help satisfy cravings for warm, filling meals, while leftovers reheat well, making it practical for meal planning. The biscuit crust delivers a tender, flaky foundation that pairs flush with the rich beef and creamy layers, creating a rewarding bite every time.

Essential Ingredients for john wayne casserole

• 2 pounds ground beef, browned and drained
• 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning mix
• Water as directed by taco seasoning instructions
• 16-ounce can large biscuits or 2 cups Bisquick biscuit mix with 1 cup water (for homemade dough)
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 medium onion, halved and sliced
• 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
• 1 medium red or green bell pepper, halved and sliced
• 4 ounces canned sliced jalapeño peppers or green chilies

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in the casserole’s signature flavors and textures. The seasoned ground beef provides robust and savory notes, enhanced by taco seasoning. The biscuit crust serves as a flaky, comforting base. The combination of sour cream, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese adds creamy richness and depth, while fresh vegetables balance the richness with freshness and crunch. Jalapeños inject a mild spiciness that characterizes the dish’s Southwestern appeal.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your john wayne casserole

John Wayne casserole is highly flexible and can be tailored to fit various dietary requirements and ingredient preferences. Here are several substitution suggestions:

• Meat Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option. Vegetable-based meat crumbles can work well for vegetarians.
• Gluten-Free Biscuit Base: Use gluten-free biscuit dough or gluten-free biscuit mix in place of regular canned biscuits or Bisquick.
• Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for pepper jack to boost spicy flavor, or use a Mexican cheese blend for added authenticity. For dairy-free needs, plant-based shredded cheeses can be used.
• Spice Level Adjustments: Adjust the jalapeño quantity or replace with green chilies if a milder version is desired. Consider adding hot sauce or diced fresh chilis for extra kick.
• Vegetable Enhancements: Add mushrooms, corn, or black beans to increase vegetarian-friendly fiber and nutrients while complementing the Tex-Mex style.
• Lower Fat Options: Replace mayonnaise and sour cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat alternatives to reduce calories while preserving creaminess.

These substitutions allow the casserole to accommodate different tastes and dietary restrictions without compromising the rich and hearty essence that makes John Wayne casserole so popular.

For helpful insights on how to make taco seasoned ground beef and tips for baking biscuit crusts, explore these trusted resources.

How to Prepare the Perfect john wayne casserole: Step-by-Step Guide

1. First Step: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly spray a 13×9-inch glass baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prepare for the biscuit crust.
2. Second Step: Arrange the large canned biscuits in a single layer in the baking dish. Press the biscuits halfway up the sides to form a crust. Place the baking dish on a baking sheet to catch any spills and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is lightly browned. Keep the oven on for later steps.
3. Third Step: In a skillet over medium heat, brown 2 pounds of ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy. Stir in 1 packet (1 ounce) of taco seasoning mix along with the water as directed on the packet. Cook the seasoned beef until the flavors meld, then set aside.
4. Fourth Step: In a small bowl, combine ½ cup sour cream, ½ cup mayonnaise, half of the shredded cheddar cheese (4 ounces), and half of the sliced onions (from 1 medium onion). Mix thoroughly to create a creamy and flavorful cheese mixture.
5. Fifth Step: In a skillet, sauté the remaining half of the onions and 1 medium halved and sliced red or green bell pepper until tender. This step enhances their flavor and softens their texture for layering.
6. Sixth Step: Begin layering the casserole in the pre-baked biscuit crust: start with the seasoned ground beef, followed by slices of 2 medium tomatoes, then the sautéed vegetables and 4 ounces of canned sliced jalapeno peppers or green chilies. Next, spread the creamy sour cream and cheese mixture evenly over the top, and finally sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese.
7. Seventh Step: Bake the assembled casserole uncovered in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes. Bake until the cheese melts completely and the edges of the biscuit crust are golden brown for a crisp edge and beautiful presentation.
8. Final Step: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the layers to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.

Mastering john wayne casserole: Advanced Tips and Variations

• Moisture management: Utilize liquid forms of taco seasoning for a bit more sauce, or serve the casserole with side taco sauce to keep each bite juicy and flavorful.
• Customize your flavors: Experiment with green chilies or a Mexican cheese blend for different cheesiness; diced vegetables like mushrooms or jalapeños can add new textures and spice levels.
• Crust alternatives: Try substituting canned biscuits with pizza dough or homemade biscuit dough for varied crust textures and flavors.
• Make it slow cooker friendly: Consider pre-baking crispy tater tots to layer on top if adapting the recipe for slow cooker use, since direct baking yields the best crust texture.
• Storage and serving options: Leftovers reheat well when covered and served with optional toppings like sour cream, green onions, or salsa, which add freshness and brightness.

How to Store john wayne casserole: Best Practices

Store leftover John Wayne Casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. Make sure the casserole has cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation buildup that could make the crust soggy.

For long-term storage, freeze the meat mixture or the entire casserole in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Thaw leftovers overnight in the refrigerator for safe reheating.

Reheat the casserole covered in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Adding a splash of water or broth before reheating can help prevent dryness. For quicker reheats, microwave servings covered with a damp paper towel, though oven reheating preserves texture better.

Nutritional Value of john wayne casserole

This hearty casserole offers a balanced combination of protein from ground beef and cheese, carbohydrates from the biscuit crust, and fats that provide energy and satiety. The inclusion of vegetables adds fiber and essential vitamins. For more on seasoning taco meat properly, check how to make taco seasoned ground beef.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About john wayne casserole

Hearty Beef and Biscuit Casserole: A Delicious John Wayne Original Recipe

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• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Varies

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Description

🍲 Experience the comforting layers of this Hearty Beef and Biscuit Casserole, a delicious twist on a John Wayne classic.
🥘 Perfect for satisfying family dinners, this dish combines savory flavors with a touch of spice for everyone’s delight!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 pounds ground beef, browned and drained
1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning mix
Water as directed
16-ounce can large biscuits or 2 cups Bisquick biscuit mix with 1 cup water for dough
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 medium onion, halved and sliced
2 medium tomatoes, sliced
1 medium red or green bell pepper, halved and sliced
4 ounces canned sliced jalapeno peppers or green chilies

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 13×9-inch glass baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. Arrange biscuits in a single layer in the dish and press halfway up the sides. Bake on a baking sheet for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned. Keep the oven on.
3. Cook ground beef with taco seasoning and water as directed, then set aside.
4. In a bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, half the cheddar cheese, and half the onions; mix well.
5. Sauté remaining onions and bell pepper until tender.
6. Layer over the biscuit crust: ground beef, tomato slices, sautéed vegetables, jalapenos, sour cream mixture, and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
7. Bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes until the cheese is melted and edges of the dough are lightly browned.

Notes

🌶️ For added moisture, use liquid taco seasoning or serve with taco sauce.
🥦 Customize with variations such as green chilies, Mexican blend cheese, or diced vegetables.
🍽️ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze the meat mixture for future use.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill or Rest Time: None
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approx. 1 cup
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 6 grams
• Sodium: 1000 mg
• Fat: 35 grams
• Saturated Fat: 15 grams
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 grams
• Trans Fat: 1 gram
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams
• Fiber: 3 grams
• Protein: 28 grams
• Cholesterol: 95 mg