Description
John Wayne Casserole is a hearty and flavorful Tex-Mex baked dish featuring seasoned ground beef, a cheesy sour cream topping, and a golden crust made from Bisquick baking mix. Perfect for a comforting family meal, this casserole balances spicy and creamy textures for a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water (for seasoning)
- 1 (16 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 (4 oz) can sliced jalapeños or green chilies (optional)
Topping
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
Crust
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 2/3 cup water (for dough)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Season Beef: Stir in the taco seasoning mix and 1/2 cup water with the beef and onion. Simmer uncovered for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and flavors meld.
- Prepare Crust Dough: In a medium bowl, combine the Bisquick baking mix with 2/3 cup water to form a soft dough.
- Partially Bake Crust: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and press the dough evenly into the bottom. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes until the crust is just lightly set.
- Mix Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the Monterey Jack cheese until well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the seasoned beef mixture over the partially baked crust evenly. Layer the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies and jalapeños (if using) over the beef. Spoon the sour cream and cheese mixture over the top and spread evenly.
- Add Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the entire casserole to create a cheesy topping.
- Bake Casserole: Bake the assembled casserole uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let it set. Enjoy!
Notes
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.
- For a spicier dish, use hot taco seasoning and add extra jalapeños.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro to add freshness and color.
