Folks, you won't believe how many times I fiddled with this old John Wayne Casserole recipe until I got it just right. The secret's in that Bisquick base – 2 cups, measured loose, not packed down like you might be tempted to do. Trust me on this one.
This is real stick-to-your-ribs cooking, the kind that puts a smile on everyone's face. You start with that Bisquick crust (don't fuss too much with it), pile on some well-seasoned ground beef, throw in some good vegetables you've cooked down proper, and top it all with a mixture of sour cream and cheese that'll make your mouth water.
Now, I've made this hundreds of times, and I can tell you straight – the original recipe from back in the '70s was hit or miss. Sometimes that bottom would turn into mush, and nobody wants that. After years of tweaking, I've figured out the measurements that work every single time.
It's got that Southwestern kick to it, but nothing too fancy – just good, honest cooking that'll fill up your kitchen with the kind of smells that bring people running to the table. Take it from someone who's made every mistake in the book – these measurements are the ones that'll give you a casserole you can be proud of, every single time.
Recipe
John Wayne Casserole is a hearty, Southwestern-inspired dish that combines seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a creamy cheese topping. Named after the iconic American actor, this casserole gained popularity in the 1970s and has since become a beloved comfort food staple in many households. This dish isn't only filling but also offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a fantastic addition to any dinner table or great appetizer option for gatherings.
This version of the recipe incorporates Bisquick baking mix to create a tender, biscuit-like base that adds an additional layer of texture and flavor to the dish. The combination of spicy seasoning, melted cheese, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying meal that's perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups Bisquick mix
- 1 cup water
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- Salt and pepper to taste
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, drain excess fat, and stir in the taco seasoning. Mix Bisquick with water to form a soft dough and press into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Layer the seasoned beef over the Bisquick base, followed by sliced tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions. Combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and green chilies in a bowl, spread over the vegetables, then top with shredded cheese. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For best outcomes, allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to help it set properly. The vegetables can be pre-cooked slightly if you prefer them softer, and the heat level can be adjusted by using mild or hot taco seasoning and chilies. The Bisquick base should be fairly thin when pressed into the pan – about 1/4 inch thick – to guarantee it cooks through completely.
John Wayne Casserole has an interesting history that dates back to the 1970s, when the legendary actor contributed a similar recipe to a celebrity cookbook. While this version adds a convenient Bisquick base, it maintains the hearty Southwestern flavors of the original.
The layered casserole combines seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a creamy cheese topping that has made it a potluck favorite across America. Despite having no real connection to the American West, the dish's robust character and satisfying nature seem fitting for its namesake's larger-than-life persona.
Conclusion
Folks, this John Wayne casserole is one of those stick-to-your-ribs meals that'll make your kitchen smell like heaven. Been making this since back when bell-bottoms were in style, and it never disappoints. Start with a good Bisquick base – that's your foundation right there. Layer in some properly seasoned ground beef (don't skimp on the seasonings), pile on those fresh vegetables, and top it with a cheese-cream mixture that'll make your mouth water. Now, I've found over the years that the secret's in the layering – take your time with it. The Duke might've been known for his quick draw, but this casserole needs patience to get those layers just right. Trust me, when you pull this bubbling beauty out of the oven, you'll understand why it's been showing up at dinner tables for nearly fifty years. Nothing fancy here – just good, honest cooking that fills bellies and brings smiles.