If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy dinner that feeds a family without fancy ingredients, John Wayne casserole deserves a spot on your table. This beloved Tex-Mex–style bake layers savory ground beef, creamy cheese, sweet peppers, onions, and a biscuit base into one comforting dish that’s warm, filling, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a potluck, or a casual weekend dinner, this casserole delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
Named after the legendary American actor John Wayne, the recipe has been passed around home kitchens for decades—because it simply works. Let’s walk through everything you need to know to make the best John Wayne casserole, plus smart swaps, storage tips, and answers to the most common questions.
Table of Contents
What Is John Wayne Casserole?
John Wayne casserole is a layered, Southwestern-inspired casserole traditionally made with:
- A biscuit or cornbread-style base
- Seasoned ground beef
- Bell peppers and onions
- A creamy layer (often sour cream, mayo, or both)
- Lots of melted cheese
The result is rich, satisfying comfort food that feels like a cross between tacos and a cheesy bake. It’s not spicy by default, which makes it family-friendly, but it’s easy to turn up the heat if you like bold flavors.
Why This Recipe Works
- Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ground beef
- Beginner-friendly: Simple layering, no complicated techniques
- Crowd-pleasing: Mild, cheesy flavors appeal to all ages
- Flexible: Easy to customize with what you have on hand
This is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a classic ingredient list (exact amounts are in the recipe card below):
Base
- Refrigerated biscuit dough (pressed into the pan)
Beef Layer
- Ground beef
- Onion
- Bell peppers
- Taco seasoning (or simple spices)
Creamy Layer
- Sour cream
- Mayonnaise
Cheese Topping
- Cheddar cheese
- Monterey Jack or Colby-Jack
How to Make John Wayne Casserole (Step by Step)
1. Prepare the Biscuit Base
Press biscuit dough evenly into the bottom of a greased baking dish. This creates a sturdy, fluffy foundation.
2. Cook the Beef
Brown ground beef with diced onion and bell peppers. Drain excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning.
3. Mix the Creamy Layer
In a bowl, combine sour cream and mayonnaise until smooth.
4. Layer the Casserole
Spread the beef mixture over the biscuit base. Spoon the creamy mixture evenly on top, then sprinkle generously with cheese.
5. Bake Until Golden
Bake until the top is bubbly and lightly browned. Let it rest before slicing so it holds together beautifully.
Tips for the Best Flavor
- Drain the beef well to avoid a greasy casserole
- Shred your own cheese for smoother melting
- Let it rest 10 minutes before serving for clean slices
- Season each layer lightly for balanced flavor
Easy Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy version: Add jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese
- Healthier swap: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo
- Protein change: Ground turkey or chicken works well
- Low-carb: Skip the biscuit base and bake as a crustless casserole
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating
- Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, then bake
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers up to 4 days
- Freeze: Freeze baked casserole up to 2 months
- Reheat: Oven at 350°F for best texture, or microwave for quick meals
For food safety guidance on storing casseroles, see the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service guidelines.
What to Serve With John Wayne Casserole
- Simple green salad
- Steamed green beans
- Corn on the cob
- Fresh fruit or sliced avocado
FAQs
What is John Wayne casserole made of?
It’s typically made with biscuit dough, seasoned ground beef, peppers, onions, a creamy sour-cream layer, and lots of cheese.
Why is it called John Wayne casserole?
The recipe became associated with the actor John Wayne after versions appeared in charity cookbooks connected to him.
Can I make John Wayne casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble it, cover tightly, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Is John Wayne casserole spicy?
Traditionally it’s mild, but you can easily add heat with jalapeños or spicy seasoning.
Can I freeze John Wayne casserole?
Absolutely. Freeze baked or unbaked, tightly wrapped, for up to two months.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a no-stress dinner that delivers big comfort, John Wayne casserole is a proven favorite. It’s cheesy, filling, budget-friendly, and easy enough for any night of the week. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your dinner rotation.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out our other budget-friendly casseroles and sign up for our newsletter for more easy, family-approved meals.
John Wayne Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough pressed into pan
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Colby-Jack cheese
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Press biscuit dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Brown ground beef with onion and bell pepper. Drain fat and stir in taco seasoning.
- Spread beef mixture over biscuit base.
- Mix sour cream and mayonnaise, then spread over beef layer.
- Top with shredded cheese and bake for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!If you enjoy hearty, comfort-style casseroles like this John Wayne casserole, you’ll also love this cowboy mashed potato casserole—another easy, budget-friendly dinner the whole family enjoys.