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John Wayne Casserole brings together all the best parts of taco night baked into a hearty one-pan dinner My family requests it every time crunchy edges gooey cheese and that classic taco flavor make it totally irresistible on busy weeknights
One snowy Saturday I tossed this casserole together on a whim and the kids devoured half the pan before it even cooled Now it is a comfort classic in our home whenever we crave something cozy
Ingredients
- Bisquick mix: gives the base a tender biscuit layer Choose a fresh box for best rise
- Water: binds the Bisquick into a soft dough
- Ground beef: delivers hearty protein Pick lean for less grease or regular for extra flavor
- White onion: sweet mild flavor for the foundation Chop it small for even cooking
- Green bell pepper: adds color crunch and a veggie boost Fresh is best but frozen works
- Taco seasoning: brings all the classic flavors Make your own or pick a packet you love
- Rotel tomatoes with green chiles: juicy and tangy with a mild heat Choose original or hot to suit your spice level
- Frozen corn: a touch of sweetness and texture Pick bright kernels with no freezer burn
- Sour cream: adds cool creaminess and richness Always use full fat for best flavor
- Mayonnaise: makes the topping extra smooth and decadent Real mayo gives the best result
- Colby jack cheese: melts beautifully and brings mild flavor Always shred it yourself for the gooiest melt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Spray a nine by thirteen inch dish with nonstick spray and preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees This ensures your casserole comes out easily and the edges crisp without sticking
- Mix the Biscuit Layer:
- Stir Bisquick and water in a large bowl until you get a soft sticky dough If needed use a spatula sprayed with nonstick spray to help spread it evenly in the dish You want a flat even base covering the bottom
- Cook the Beef and Vegetables:
- Heat a large skillet over medium high Add ground beef onion and bell pepper Cook until beef is browned and onions are soft this usually takes five to six minutes Drain off any excess grease so your casserole isn’t soggy
- Flavor the Meat:
- Sprinkle in taco seasoning then pour in the Rotel and add corn Stir everything for another two to three minutes so the flavors come together with a bit of sauce
- Layer the Casserole:
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the biscuit base Smooth it lightly so every bite gets both
- Mix the Creamy Topping:
- Combine sour cream mayonnaise and one and a half cups shredded cheese in a small bowl Mix well and spread gently over the beef layer so you get a creamy blanket
- Add Cheese and Bake:
- Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese on top Place uncovered in the oven and bake for thirty five to forty minutes until the topping is bubbly and golden brown Let cool at least five minutes before slicing to help set the layers
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My favorite part is the creamy topping every time it comes out of the oven bubbling and crisp at the edges The scent reminds me of every football Sunday when my husband and I would scoop big cheesy bites while cheering on our team
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool fully then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to four days For freezing portion into airtight containers or freeze the whole unbaked dish wrapped well Thaw overnight in the fridge Reheat slices in the microwave or bake covered at three hundred fifty degrees until hot
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or shredded cooked chicken stand in well for the beef For a veggie version load up black beans pinto beans and extra peppers If gluten free swap a gluten free biscuit mix for the Bisquick
Serving Suggestions
Top with diced avocado sliced black olives or extra salsa for a bright fresh kick I love serving this with a crunchy salad on the side or dipping in tortilla chips My kids love it with a drizzle of ranch dressing
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare John Wayne Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake, or freeze for later.
- → What cheeses work best for the topping?
Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Cheddar are great choices for a creamy, melty finish.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- → Can the casserole base be made without Bisquick?
Yes, you can substitute other biscuit mixes or homemade biscuit dough if preferred.
- → Is it possible to add extra vegetables?
Absolutely! Try adding black beans, jalapeños, or diced tomatoes to the beef mixture for extra flavor.