John Wayne Casserole Recipe

Ground beef: Provides the savory base for the casserole.

Taco seasoning: Adds a zesty, Mexican-inspired flavor to the beef.

Sour cream: Adds creaminess and tang to the dish.

Mayonnaise: Contributes to the creamy texture and richness.

Cheddar cheese: Offers a sharp, cheesy flavor.

Monterey Jack cheese: Adds a mild, creamy cheese layer.

Diced green chiles: Provides a mild heat and unique flavor.

Onion: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the casserole.

Bisquick mix: Forms the dough base for the casserole.

Water: Used to mix with the Bisquick to form the dough.

When preparing the dough for the John Wayne Casserole, ensure that you mix the bisquick and water thoroughly to avoid any lumps. Press the dough evenly into the baking dish to create a uniform base layer. This will help the casserole bake evenly and provide a sturdy foundation for the layers above. Additionally, when cooking the ground beef, make sure to break it into small, even pieces to ensure it cooks thoroughly and absorbs the taco seasoning evenly. This will enhance the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor profile.

• taco seasoning - Substitute with homemade taco seasoning: Combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano for a fresher, customizable seasoning.

• sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture with added protein.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can provide a similar creaminess with fewer calories and fat.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with colby cheese: Colby cheese melts well and has a mild flavor similar to cheddar.

• monterey jack cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella has a mild flavor and melts smoothly, making it a good alternative.

• diced green chiles - Substitute with diced jalapeños: Jalapeños add a similar heat and flavor, though they are slightly spicier.

• onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to onions.

• bisquick mix - Substitute with homemade baking mix: Combine flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening for a homemade version.

• water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds more flavor to the dish compared to plain water.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• For short-term storage, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• If you prefer to store individual portions, cut the casserole into serving sizes and place them in airtight containers. This makes reheating easier and quicker.
• For long-term storage, wrap the entire casserole or individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Alternatively, use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label the casserole with the date of freezing to keep track of its freshness. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even reheating and maintains the texture.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If reheating a whole casserole, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent the top from over-browning. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until heated through.
• For individual portions, you can use a microwave. Place the portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through.
• If the casserole seems dry after reheating, add a small amount of sour cream or cheese on top before serving to restore moisture and flavor.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the John Wayne Casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

• For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Check and stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you prefer a crispy top, use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C), place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, and heat for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning the cheese.

• For stovetop reheating, place a portion of the casserole in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place a portion of the casserole in the air fryer basket, and heat for 5-7 minutes. This method will give you a nice, crispy top layer.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Skillet: Used to cook and brown the ground beef.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and shredded cheeses.

• Mixing bowl: Used to mix the Bisquick and water to form a dough.

• Spatula: Used to stir and mix ingredients in the skillet and mixing bowls.

• Baking dish: Used to layer the dough, beef, and other ingredients for baking.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure out the sour cream, mayonnaise, cheeses, and water.

• Cheese grater: Used to shred the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.

• Can opener: Used to open the can of diced green chiles.

• Chopping board: Used to chop the large onion.

• Knife: Used to chop the large onion.

• Oven mitts: Used to safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Pre-cook the beef: Cook the ground beef ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This will save you time when assembling the casserole.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Buy pre-shredded cheese to cut down on prep time. It’s a quick and convenient option.

Mix dry ingredients in advance: Combine the bisquick mix and store it in an airtight container. When ready to cook, just add water.

Chop onions ahead: Chop the onion and store it in the fridge. This will make the assembly process faster.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly chop the onion and mix ingredients.