John Wayne Beef Biscuit

This savory John Wayne Beef Biscuit casserole brings together hearty seasoned ground beef with a tender biscuit crust layers of sharp cheddar fresh tomatoes and a creamy blend of sour cream and mayonnaise The mild spice from taco seasoning and jalapenos pairs perfectly with the rich cheesy topping creating a satisfying main dish that always pleases a crowd It is an ideal dinner for gatherings or a comforting meal on a busy weeknight

I first tried this dish for a game day potluck and was amazed at how quickly it disappeared Since then it has become my go to whenever I want an easy crowd pleasing meal

Ingredients

• Ground beef: choose 80 to 85 percent lean for the best texture and rich flavor
• Taco seasoning: provides the classic Tex Mex spice blend store bought or homemade both work well
• Biscuits: canned biscuits are perfect for a buttery flaky crust that soaks up all the savory juices Look for large flaky style
• Sour cream: adds tang and creaminess balancing the spice full fat gives the richest taste
• Mayonnaise: adds another layer of creamy richness and helps keep layers bound together real mayo has the best flavor
• Cheddar cheese: sharp cheddar gives a bold cheesy note and melts beautifully freshly shredded cheese works best
• Onion: provides sweetness and aromatic depth cook until soft for mellow flavor
• Tomatoes: use firm ripe tomatoes that hold their shape and add juiciness with bright acidity
• Red bell pepper: adds sweetness and a crunchy pop of color choose crisp peppers without blemishes
• Jalapeno peppers: canned jalapenos offer convenient mild heat and that signature Tex Mex zip Drain well before layering

Instructions

Prepare the Biscuit Crust:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and position the rack in the center Spray a 13 by 9 inch glass baking dish thoroughly Arrange the canned biscuits in a single layer pressing them together and work the dough halfway up the dish’s sides Place the dish on a baking sheet for even heating Bake for 12 to 15 minutes keeping an eye after 12 minutes The crust should turn just barely golden at the edges Remove from the oven and set aside while leaving the oven on

Make the Taco Meat:

While the crust bakes heat a skillet on medium Cook the ground beef until fully browned and crumbly draining any excess fat Stir in the taco seasoning along with the water amount indicated on the packet Continue cooking until the flavors are well combined Transfer the meat to a bowl and set it aside

Mix the Creamy Layer:

In a separate bowl combine sour cream mayonnaise half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the sliced onions Stir gently until smooth and creamy Set this mixture aside for layering later

Sauté the Peppers and Onions:

Return the skillet to the stove and add the remaining sliced onions and red bell pepper Sauté for three to four minutes just until the vegetables begin to soften but still retain some bite This step enhances sweetness while preventing mushiness in the oven

Assemble and Bake the Casserole:

Start by layering the cooked taco meat evenly over the par baked biscuit crust Follow with a single layer of fresh tomato slices Spread the sautéed peppers and onions on top next Add a layer of well drained jalapeno slices Spoon the creamy cheese mixture evenly over all these layers Finally sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar over the top Bake uncovered in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes until the biscuit crust edges turn a deep golden brown and the cheese topping is bubbling and melted

What I love most about this recipe is the tangy creamy layer made from sour cream mayonnaise and cheddar That cool smooth blend is a total game changer I vividly remember the first time I served it fresh from the oven with everyone gathered around the table It turned a simple meal into a celebration with laughter and full plates

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil in the original baking dish or transfer to airtight containers It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days For reheating microwave individual portions or warm the entire dish in a low oven covered with foil until heated through This casserole also freezes beautifully Wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to two months Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to prevent the biscuit crust from becoming dry

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter version Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for sour cream or mayonnaise if you want a tangier or slightly healthier option For the cheese swap in Colby Jack or Monterey Jack if you prefer a milder flavor Feel free to add extra vegetables like chopped zucchini or corn layers without adjusting the baking time

Serving Suggestions

Serve the casserole hot piled high on plates with toppings like sliced avocado fresh cilantro or extra jalapeno slices A dollop of salsa and a squeeze of lime brighten the flavors nicely For a complete Tex Mex meal add a big fresh green salad and some seasoned rice or beans This dish shines as the centerpiece for casual get togethers with a big bowl of tortilla chips on the side

This John Wayne Beef Biscuit casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd and makes excellent leftovers Top with sliced avocado cilantro and a squeeze of lime for brightness

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use homemade seasoning instead of store-bought taco seasoning?

Yes, homemade seasoning blends work well and allow you to adjust spice levels while maintaining balanced flavors.

→ How can I ensure the biscuit crust doesn’t over-brown?

Use an oven thermometer for accurate temperature and check the crust after 12 minutes, removing once edges turn lightly golden.

→ What is the best way to slice vegetables for layering?

Thinly slice tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers to help them cook evenly and integrate smoothly during baking.

→ Can I substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with other ingredients?

Greek yogurt or creamy cheese spreads can be used, though the sour cream and mayo mix offers a distinct creamy tang that balances the spices.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the layers up to baking and refrigerate for a few hours before baking to save time on serving day.