The Creamy Layered John Wayne Casserole is a deliciously rich and satisfying dish that combines Tex-Mex flavors with a comforting, hearty base. With seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and fresh vegetables layered over a biscuit crust, this casserole is perfect for any family dinner or casual gathering.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together everything I enjoy in one dish—flavorful meat, creamy layers, fresh veggies, and a golden biscuit base. It’s easy to assemble, full of texture, and always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it's versatile enough to adapt based on what I have in the fridge.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 (16.3-ounce) can refrigerated biscuits
2 pounds ground beef
1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning
¾ cup water
1 medium onion, halved and sliced
1 medium red bell pepper, halved and sliced
½ cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
8 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
2 medium tomatoes, sliced
1 (4-ounce) jar sliced jalapeño peppers, drained (optional)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
I press the biscuit dough into the bottom of the dish and slightly up the sides, then bake it for 15 to 20 minutes until lightly golden.
While the crust bakes, I cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned and crumbly. After draining the fat, I stir in taco seasoning and water, letting it simmer for 5 minutes.
I remove the meat from the skillet and use the same pan to sauté the onions and bell pepper until they're slightly tender.
In a bowl, I mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, and half of the Cheddar cheese.
On the baked crust, I layer the taco meat, tomato slices, sautéed vegetables, jalapeños if using, and the sour cream mixture. I top it all with the remaining cheese.
I bake it uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the edges are lightly browned.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

I like to swap the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version.
For a vegetarian take, I use black beans and corn instead of meat.
I sometimes add green chilies or hot sauce for extra spice.
Swapping Cheddar for Pepper Jack gives the dish a bolder flavor.
I also enjoy topping it with crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy finish.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, I freeze portions in sealed containers for up to 3 months.
To reheat, I use the microwave for individual servings or pop it in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep it the night before and keep it in the fridge. I just let it come to room temperature before baking.

What if I don’t have taco seasoning?

I mix my own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt.

Is it possible to make this casserole without the biscuit crust?

Definitely. I sometimes use a layer of crushed tortilla chips or even cooked rice instead.

Can I add beans to this casserole?

Absolutely. I’ve added black beans or pinto beans in the meat layer for extra protein and fiber.

How do I make this less spicy?

I skip the jalapeños and use mild taco seasoning, and sometimes substitute plain diced tomatoes for any spicy versions.

Conclusion

The Creamy Layered John Wayne Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry crowd. I love how easy it is to customize and how satisfying each bite is. Once I made it the first time, it quickly became a go-to in my kitchen. Give it a try and see why it’s such a favorite!