Description
Hearty john wayne casserole delivers Tex-Mex comfort on a plate with layers of ground beef, peppers, and cheesy goodness. Southwest-inspired flavors invite you to savor each satisfying bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Base & Meat:
- 2 pounds (0.9 kg) ground beef
- 1 ounce (28 grams) packet taco seasoning (plus water as directed)
- 16 ounce (454 grams) can large biscuits
Creamy Layer:
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
- 8 ounces (227 grams) cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, halved and sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, halved and sliced
- 4 ounces (113 grams) canned sliced jalapeno peppers
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 13×9 glass baking dish with non-stick spray, positioning the rack in the center.
- Create the biscuit foundation by pressing the biscuits into a single, seamless layer, covering the bottom and pushing dough partially up the sides. Bake on a baking sheet for 12-15 minutes until edges turn light golden brown, then remove and set aside while maintaining oven temperature.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet, draining excess fat, then incorporate taco seasoning with recommended water, mixing thoroughly. Transfer seasoned meat to a separate bowl.
- Craft the creamy mixture by blending sour cream, mayonnaise, half the cheddar cheese, and half the sliced onions until well combined.
- In the same skillet used for meat, sauté remaining onions and bell peppers until they become slightly softened and translucent.
- Assemble the casserole by layering ingredients on the biscuit base in this sequence: seasoned taco meat, tomato slices, sautéed vegetables, jalapeños, creamy mixture, and remaining cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, ensuring edges turn golden brown and cheese melts completely, creating a bubbling, appetizing surface.
Notes
- Versatile Biscuit Base Opt for homemade biscuit dough or gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary restrictions while maintaining the casserole’s hearty texture.
- Smart Meat Selection Choose lean ground beef or swap with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for healthier protein options without compromising flavor.
- Spice Level Control Adjust jalapeño quantity to manage heat intensity, or substitute with milder green chiles for a family-friendly version that still delivers zesty character.
- Make-Ahead Magic Prepare casserole components in advance and assemble just before baking, making it perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings where time is precious.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg