John Wayne Casserole is a hearty and delicious meal that combines ground beef, fresh veggies, and yummy biscuits. This dish is named after the famous cowboy actor John Wayne, known for his love of hearty meals. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a family or a group of friends. With its savory flavors and comforting texture, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Table of Contents
Why Make This Recipe
Making John Wayne Casserole is a great idea for several reasons. First, it’s quick and simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy days. Secondly, it combines familiar ingredients in a delightful way that everyone will enjoy. Whether you are hosting a gathering or just need a filling dinner, this casserole delivers comfort in every bite. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your taste!
How to Make John Wayne Casserole
Follow these easy steps to create a delicious John Wayne Casserole that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated biscuits
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and taco seasoning, and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased casserole dish.
- Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the beef mixture.
- Pour the sour cream and mayonnaise mixture over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool slightly before serving and enjoy!
How to Serve John Wayne Casserole
Serve John Wayne Casserole warm straight from the oven. It is tasty on its own, but you can also add toppings like shredded cheese, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor. Pair it with a simple salad or some cornbread for a complete meal.
How to Store John Wayne Casserole
If you have leftovers, let them cool to room temperature. Then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make John Wayne Casserole
- Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content.
- Feel free to add other veggies like corn or black beans for extra nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, add additional chili powder or hot sauce.
Variation
You can customize this casserole based on what you have at home. For a healthier twist, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also try using whole wheat biscuits for a bit more fiber.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen veggies can be a great substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the mixture.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use beans and lentils for a hearty texture.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole and keep it in the refrigerator for a day before baking. Just make sure to adjust the baking time as needed.
Now you are ready to enjoy your homemade John Wayne Casserole! It’s a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Enjoy!

John Wayne Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
- 1 10-ounce can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 8-ounce can refrigerated biscuits Whole wheat biscuits can be used for more fiber.
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and taco seasoning, and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased casserole dish.
- Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the beef mixture.
- Pour the sour cream and mayonnaise mixture over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool slightly before serving and enjoy!