John Wayne Beef Biscuit

John Wayne Casserole is pure comfort baked into a single dish and has become my go-to when I need a hearty dinner that satisfies everyone at the table This beef and biscuit casserole brings together Tex Mex flavors creamy layers and a golden crust for a crowd-pleasing meal that always disappears fast

I first discovered this recipe when prepping for a game day potluck and my family could not stop talking about it Now every time I make it I know there will be clean plates and happy faces

Ingredients

• Ground beef: lean beef brings hearty protein and rich flavor try to pick 80-85 percent lean for best texture
• Taco seasoning: delivers the signature spice blend you know and love homemade or store bought both work great
• Biscuits: canned biscuits create a buttery quick crust that soaks up all the juices use large flaky style for best texture
• Sour cream: brings tangy creaminess that balances the spice choose full fat for richest layers
• Mayonnaise: adds another note of creamy richness and helps bind the layers look for real mayo for the best flavor
• Cheddar cheese: shredded sharp cheddar melts beautifully and gives a bold cheesy hit fresh shredding is best for melting
• Onion: adds sweetness and aromatic depth cook until soft for mellow flavor
• Tomatoes: fresh sliced tomatoes add juiciness and a touch of acidity firm ripe tomatoes hold up best during baking
• Red bell pepper: gives a pop of color and sweet crunch go for crisp peppers without soft spots
• Jalapeno peppers: canned for easy use bring the mild heat and signature Tex Mex zest drain well before adding

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Biscuit Crust:

Start by preheating your oven to 350 F Place the oven rack in the center position Take a 13 by 9 inch glass baking dish spray it well then lay out the canned biscuit dough in a single layer pressing the biscuits to join them together and working the dough about halfway up the dish sides Place the dish on a baking sheet for even heat then bake for 12 to 15 minutes checking after 12 minutes The crust should be just barely golden at the edges Remove and set aside while keeping the oven hot

Make the Taco Meat:

While biscuits bake set a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until fully browned and crumbly Drain any fat Stir in your taco seasoning and the amount of water specified on the seasoning packet Cook until all the flavors soak in then transfer to a bowl and set aside

Mix the Creamy Layer:

In a separate bowl mix together the sour cream mayonnaise half of the shredded cheddar and half of the sliced onions Stir until smooth and creamy Set aside for layering

Sauté the Peppers and Onions:

Return the skillet to the stove and toss in your remaining onions along with the sliced red bell pepper Sauté for three or four minutes just until the vegetables start to soften but keep some bite This builds sweet flavor and keeps the peppers from turning mushy in the oven

Assemble and Bake the Casserole:

Now layer everything on top of your par baked biscuit crust Start with all the prepared taco meat followed by a single layer of sliced tomatoes Spread over the sautéed peppers and onions Next add a layer of drained jalapeno slices Spoon the creamy cheese mixture evenly over everything Finally sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top Bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes until the edges of the biscuit crust are deeply golden and the cheesy top is bubbling and melted

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Every time I make this I look forward to the tangy creamy layer That cool blend of sour cream and mayo with melted cheddar is a game changer I remember when I first tasted it straight from the oven with my family gathered around the table It turned a regular night into a little celebration

Storage Tips

Cover any leftover casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil in the baking dish or move it to airtight containers It keeps well in the fridge for about three days You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or pop the whole dish back into a low oven covered with foil until warmed through This casserole also freezes well Wrap slices or portions tightly and freeze for up to two months Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to keep the biscuit base from drying out

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you want a lighter version Greek yogurt can replace sour cream or mayo if you like a tangier or slightly healthier touch Use Colby Jack or Monterey Jack instead of cheddar for a milder cheese profile For extra veggies chopped zucchini or corn layer in without changing the bake time

Serving Suggestions

Pile the hot casserole high on plates and add your favorite toppings like sliced avocado fresh cilantro or extra jalapenos A dollop of salsa and a squeeze of lime bring brightness For a full Tex Mex meal serve with a big green salad and maybe some seasoned rice or beans I love this as a hearty center for casual parties with a big bowl of chips on the table

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Cultural Context

Rumor has it this dish is named for the legendary John Wayne who submitted a similar recipe to a charity cookbook in the 1970s and the spirit of the Southwest is all over every bite It is an American home cook classic that brings together beef cheesy layers and plenty of comfort on busy weeknights and family tables alike

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use homemade seasoning instead of store-bought taco seasoning?

Yes, homemade seasoning blends work well and allow you to adjust the spice level and flavors to your preference while keeping the dish flavorful.

→ How can I ensure the biscuit crust doesn’t over-brown?

Use an oven thermometer to monitor accurate temperature and check the crust frequently after 12 minutes baking to remove it once it’s lightly golden.

→ What is the best way to slice the vegetables for layering?

Slicing tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers thinly helps them cook evenly and blend well with the other layers during baking.

→ Can I substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with other ingredients?

You can try Greek yogurt or a creamy cheese spread for a different texture but the sour cream and mayo mix adds a distinct creaminess that balances spicy elements nicely.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking to save time on the day of serving.