Here’s a hearty, crowd-pleasing recipe for the John Wayne Casserole — a Tex-Mex-inspired dish that layers spiced beef, peppers, creamy topping, and a biscuit or crescent base. Despite the name, this recipe doesn’t date back to the Duke himself, but it’s become a beloved American comfort classic.
🤠 John Wayne Casserole
(Beefy, Cheesy, and Full of Southwest Flavor)
🕒 Total Time: ~1 hour
Serves: 6–8
🧾 Ingredients:
For the base:
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1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough (or use biscuit dough)
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
For the beef layer:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
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½ cup water
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1 small onion, chopped
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1 medium bell pepper, chopped (any color)
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1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel), drained
For the topping:
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1 cup sour cream
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½ cup mayonnaise
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1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
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1 small can (4 oz) diced green chiles (optional, for more kick)
🔪 Instructions:
1. Preheat oven:
To 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Make the base crust:
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Press crescent roll dough into the bottom of the dish and slightly up the sides.
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Sprinkle lightly with garlic powder and onion powder.
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Bake for 7–10 minutes, until slightly golden (don’t overbake).
3. Cook the beef mixture:
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In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned.
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Add onions and bell pepper; cook until softened.
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Stir in taco seasoning, water, and drained tomatoes with green chiles. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
4. Make the topping:
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In a bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, 1 cup of the cheddar cheese, and green chiles if using.
5. Assemble the casserole:
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Spread the beef mixture over the pre-baked crust.
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Spoon the sour cream mixture over the beef and spread evenly.
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Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese on top.
6. Bake:
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Return to oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
7. Cool slightly and serve:
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Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
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Top with chopped tomatoes, green onions, or sliced jalapeños
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Serve with shredded lettuce and a side of tortilla chips
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Great with Mexican rice or refried beans
💡 Tips:
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Want spice? Add pickled jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.
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Make it low-carb: Skip the crescent dough and layer it all in a baking dish for a crustless version.
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Make ahead: Assemble the whole casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.