John Wayne Casserole Recipe

The John Wayne Casserole is a rich, satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you want to serve something comforting and delicious. Packed with layers of taco-seasoned beef, a biscuit base, and a creamy, cheesy topping, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make yet full of flavor.

Whether you’re a fan of Tex-Mex flavors or simply looking for a wholesome, filling meal, the John Wayne Casserole is a perfect choice. Let’s walk through everything you need to know about making this classic recipe.

What is John Wayne Casserole?

The John Wayne Casserole has an interesting backstory that links it to the famous actor John Wayne. While it’s not entirely clear if he actually created the dish, the casserole reflects the rugged, hearty meals associated with the iconic Western star. This recipe combines beef, biscuit mix, corn, tomatoes, and cheese, creating a layered casserole that’s perfect for anyone looking for a filling meal.

Ingredients for John Wayne Casserole

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to make this flavorful casserole. The following quantities serve about 6-8 people, making it ideal for larger gatherings:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
• 1 cup (240 ml) water
• 1 oz (28 g) taco seasoning
• 1 cup diced yellow onion (about 1 medium onion)
• 20 oz (570 g) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
• 12 oz (340 g) canned corn, drained

Biscuit Layer:

• 3 cups (360 g) Bisquick mix
• 1 cup (240 ml) water

Topping:

• 7.5 oz (213 g) Philadelphia whipped chive cream cheese
• 1/2 cup (120 g) mayo
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cups (230 g) shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend

this RECIPE

Biscuit Layer

The foundation of the John Wayne Casserole is the biscuit layer, which adds a nice texture and depth to the dish. The use of Bisquick mix makes it convenient, as it only requires the addition of water to form a dough.

When preparing the biscuit layer, make sure the dough is sticky but not too dry. If the dough becomes too stiff, add a splash of water to loosen it up. Once mixed, spread it evenly in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch greased baking dish to ensure it bakes uniformly.

Topping Layer

The topping for the John Wayne Casserole is what makes it stand out. The creamy combination of whipped chive cream cheese and mayo, paired with the bold flavors of garlic powder and salt, creates a rich, savory topping that pairs perfectly with the taco-seasoned beef layer beneath it.

Using a hand mixer is the best way to ensure that the cream cheese mixture is smooth. Once combined, spread it carefully over the ground beef layer to ensure that every bite of the casserole has a rich, creamy texture.

How to Prepare John Wayne Casserole

Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfect casserole every time.

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking when the casserole is fully assembled.

2. Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet, sauté 1 lb of ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease from the pan.

3. Add Taco Seasoning:

Add 1 oz taco seasoning and 1 cup water to the cooked beef. Stir thoroughly and let it simmer for about 4 minutes to absorb all the flavors.

4. Mix in Vegetables:

Add 1 cup diced yellow onion, 20 oz Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (drained), and 12 oz canned corn (drained) to the beef mixture. Stir everything together and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for a few minutes as the flavors meld together.

5. Prepare the Biscuit Layer:

In a mixing bowl, combine 3 cups Bisquick mix with 1 cup water until a sticky dough forms. Spread this dough evenly across the bottom of a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.

6. Assemble the Casserole:

Layer the beef mixture evenly on top of the biscuit dough in the baking dish. Next, spread the creamy whipped cream cheese and mayo mixture on top of the beef layer.

7. Add Cheese:

Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend evenly over the top of the casserole.

8. Bake the Casserole:

Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

9. Rest and Serve:

Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overbaking the Casserole: Overbaking can cause the biscuit layer to dry out. Keep an eye on the casserole after about 35 minutes to ensure it stays moist and golden.
2. Not Draining the Tomatoes and Corn: Be sure to fully drain the canned tomatoes and corn, or else the casserole may turn out soggy.
3. Uneven Biscuit Layer: Spreading the dough evenly is crucial to ensure all parts of the casserole have the same texture. Using a spatula can help smooth out the dough.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Substitutions: You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner protein.
• Extra Heat: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, add a few diced jalapeños to the beef mixture, or choose a spicier variety of Rotel.
• Frozen Veggies: Don’t have canned corn? Frozen corn works just as well – just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the dish.

How to Serve and Present John Wayne Casserole

For the best presentation, serve the casserole in large squares. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of diced green onions for a pop of color. A dollop of sour cream on the side adds a refreshing creaminess that pairs perfectly with the Tex-Mex flavors of the casserole.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. Avoid freezing the casserole, as the biscuit layer may become soggy once thawed.

FAQ Section

Can I make the casserole gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute a gluten-free baking mix for the Bisquick to make the biscuit layer gluten-free.

How can I reduce the spice level?
Use plain diced tomatoes instead of Rotel and omit any extra chili powder or jalapeños for a milder flavor.

Can I make the casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Conclusion

The John Wayne Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. With its layers of seasoned beef, creamy topping, and cheesy finish, it’s bound to be a favorite at your dinner table. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more tasty and family-friendly recipes!

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