Introduction
Get ready to dive into comfort heaven with this iconic John Wayne Casserole! Loaded with savory ground beef, vibrant veggies, and gooey cheese layers, topped with a ranchy sour cream blend, this dish is a dinner winner that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- For the Base:
- 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated biscuits
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 (4-ounce) can sliced jalapeños (optional)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Directions
1. 🔥 Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. 🍳 In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until they’re softened. Stir in the taco seasoning and tomatoes with green chilies; cook for another 3-5 minutes.
3. 🍞 Spread the biscuit dough into an even layer at the bottom of your baking dish. Pre-bake for 5 minutes until slightly puffy.
4. 🥘 Layer the beef mixture over the partially baked biscuit crust.
5. 🥣 In a bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, and ranch dressing mix. Spread this creamy goodness over the beef.
6. 🧀 Top it off with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Sprinkle optional jalapeños for that extra kick.
7. 🕒 Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool slightly, then serve up the comfort!
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 520 kcal | Servings: 6
Enjoy this hearty delight and make every dinner a memorable one! 🍽️❤️
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, take a moment to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, add 1 pound of ground beef and brown it over medium heat. Once it’s browned, add in the chopped onion and bell pepper. Continue cooking until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Mix in the taco seasoning and the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Prepare the Biscuit Base
Open the can of refrigerated biscuits and spread the dough evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Pre-bake the biscuits in the oven for 5 minutes until they are slightly puffy.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Once the biscuit base is ready, layer the cooked beef mixture over the partially baked biscuit crust, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Mix the Creamy Topping
In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of mayonnaise, and 1 packet of ranch dressing mix. Stir well until smooth. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the beef layer.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Jalapeños
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top of the creamy layer. If you enjoy a little spice, add sliced jalapeños from the 4-ounce can as an optional topping.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once it’s done, allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Serving Size
This recipe serves about 6 people.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 520 calories.
Optional Ingredients
Feel free to customize the casserole by adding other vegetables or additional spices according to your preference.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Cook Techniques
Ground Beef Preparation
When browning ground beef, use medium heat to ensure even cooking. Break the meat apart with a spatula as it cooks to achieve a uniform texture. Draining excess fat after cooking enhances the dish’s overall flavor and texture.
Sautéing Vegetables
Sauté chopped onions and bell peppers until they are softened but still vibrant. This process releases their natural sweetness and adds depth to the beef mixture.
Layering the Casserole
For a well-structured casserole, evenly distribute your biscuit dough to form a stable base. This prevents sogginess and allows the layers above to meld beautifully.
Mixing Creamy Toppings
Combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and ranch dressing mix until smooth. This creates a flavorful topping that enhances the creaminess of the dish and complements the savory layers beneath.
Baking Instructions
Bake the assembled casserole until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool slightly after baking to allow the flavors to settle and make serving easier.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for beef for a leaner option. Adjust cooking times accordingly if necessary.
What can I use instead of ranch dressing mix?
You can create a homemade seasoning blend using dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder, mixed with some salt and pepper.
Is there a gluten-free option for the biscuits?
Yes, gluten-free biscuits are available in stores. Ensure to double-check labels for compatibility with your dietary requirements.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for a day before baking. Consider adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going into the oven chilled.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
Enjoy this hearty John Wayne Casserole, perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Packed with flavor and comfort, it’s sure to become a favorite!
More Recipe Suggestions and Combinations
Southwestern Chicken Casserole
Substitute ground beef with shredded chicken and add black beans and corn for a southwestern twist.
Vegetable-Loaded Casserole
For a vegetarian option, use a medley of your favorite vegetables and replace sour cream with a plant-based alternative.
Cheesy Meatball Casserole
Swap the ground beef for meatballs, layered with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese for an Italian flair.
Buffalo Chicken Casserole
Use shredded buffalo chicken instead of beef and top with blue cheese crumbles for a spicy kick.
Breakfast Casserole
Transform it into breakfast by using breakfast sausage, eggs, and hash browns instead of the beef mixture.
