Description
This Cheesy John Wayne Casserole is a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish made with layers of ground beef, creamy cheese, fresh veggies, and a fluffy biscuit base. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this casserole is bursting with Southwestern-inspired flavors!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Casserole Base:
- 2 cups biscuit mix (like Bisquick)
- 1/2 cup water
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium tomato, diced (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained)
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies, drained
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Biscuit Base:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the biscuit mix and water to form a dough. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Layer the Vegetables:
- Spread the diced onion, bell pepper, tomato, and green chilies evenly over the biscuit base.
- Add the Beef Layer:
- Spoon the seasoned ground beef over the vegetables, spreading it out evenly.
- Mix the Cheese Topping:
- In a bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and garlic powder. Spread this mixture evenly over the beef layer.
- Top with More Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
- Substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
