There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a hot, bubbling casserole on a cold winter evening—and this John Wayne Casserole delivers all that and more. Named after the legendary cowboy actor, this dish is as bold and satisfying as the man himself.

I first discovered this savory delight in my grandmother’s recipe box, scribbled on a faded notecard with “Dad’s Favorite” written at the top. My Nonna wasn’t one for Western movies, but she did appreciate a hearty casserole that could feed the family with leftovers to spare. And once I gave it a try myself, I knew this would become one of my go-to winter dishes—meaty, cheesy, and utterly delicious.

This recipe combines layers of seasoned ground beef, rich vegetables, and a fluffy biscuit base, all smothered in gooey cheddar cheese and sour cream. It’s comfort food, American-style, with just the right hint of spice and creaminess to make every bite unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This John Wayne Casserole

Hearty & Filling: With ground beef, cheese, and biscuit layers, it’s the ultimate meal in one dish.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike love the flavor-packed layers.
Perfect for Winter: Warm, cheesy, and comforting—ideal for chilly evenings.
Great Leftovers: It reheats beautifully for a quick lunch the next day.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

Biscuit Layer

1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (or homemade biscuits)

Beef Layer

1 lb ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped
1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade mix)
½ cup water

Creamy Layer

½ cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional for a kick)

Toppings

1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
Sliced jalapeños or green onions (optional garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Layer the Biscuits

Press the biscuit dough into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Use your fingers to press the dough slightly up the sides, forming a shallow crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes, just until slightly puffed but not fully cooked.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

While the crust bakes, cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and taco seasoning. Stir in water and simmer until the vegetables soften and the mixture thickens—about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and the green chilies. Stir until smooth.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

Spread the seasoned beef mixture over the partially baked biscuit layer.
Spoon the creamy sour cream mixture over the beef.
Top everything with the remaining shredded cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with sliced jalapeños or chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm!

Serving Tips

Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies to balance the richness.
Add a side of guacamole or salsa for a Tex-Mex flair.
Want to make it spicier? Stir a dash of cayenne into the beef or add hot sauce to the creamy layer.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 300°F oven for 15–20 minutes.

Make It Your Own

The beauty of John Wayne Casserole is its flexibility. Here are a few variations to try:

Vegetarian Twist: Replace ground beef with black beans and corn for a meatless version.
Breakfast Version: Use breakfast sausage and scramble in eggs before layering with cheese.
Extra Crunch: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top for added texture.

Wrapping It Up

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just want a cozy, family-friendly meal, John Wayne Casserole is sure to become a regular in your winter recipe rotation. It’s rich, satisfying, and a little nostalgic—a tribute to the American spirit in every forkful.

So next time you’re craving something hearty, give this cowboy-approved casserole a try. And don’t forget to save a slice for tomorrow—it’s even better the next day!

Have You Tried It?

We’d love to hear how your John Wayne Casserole turned out! Did you add your own twist or stick with the classic? Share your tips and photos in the comments below!