This satisfying casserole delivers all the bold flavors of the Wild West—no open flame required. Inspired by the iconic cowboy actor, John Wayne Casserole is a hearty, layered dish that has become a beloved comfort food favorite. With seasoned beef, spicy accents, a creamy layer, and a biscuit crust, it’s a go-to for feeding a hungry crowd or making weeknight dinners extra cozy.

What Is John Wayne Casserole?
It’s a warm, oven-baked dish built in layers—starting with a soft biscuit base, topped with taco-seasoned ground beef, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and onions. That’s followed by a creamy mixture of sour cream, mayo, and cheddar cheese, then finished with more melty cheese on top. This dish is a hit at potlucks, family dinners, or anytime comfort food is calling.

Ingredients
Layer Ingredient Amount
Meat Layer Ground beef 1 lb
Taco seasoning 1 packet
Water 1 cup
Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), drained 1 can (10 oz)
Chopped onion (optional) ½ cup
Salt and pepper To taste
Creamy Layer Sour cream ½ cup
Mayonnaise ½ cup
Shredded cheddar cheese (mixed in) 1 cup
Crust & Topping Refrigerated biscuit dough (8-count) 1 can
Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping) 1 cup
‍ Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Get the Oven and Beef Ready
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain off any extra grease.

2. Add Seasonings and Extras
Mix in the taco seasoning and water, and let simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
Stir in the drained Rotel and optional onions. Let it cook another 2–3 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.