Introduction: John Wayne Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that’s packed with layers of savory flavors and a perfect blend of Tex-Mex ingredients. Named after the iconic actor, this casserole features seasoned ground beef, creamy sour cream, zesty salsa, and a cheesy topping. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s great for feeding a crowd, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering. The combination of flavors makes it a true crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade seasoning)
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
1 can (8 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 package (about 8 oz) of cornbread mix (such as Jiffy)
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and cream of mushroom soup. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
Prepare the Cornbread Topping: In a bowl, mix the cornbread mix with milk and egg according to the package instructions. Set aside.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the cornbread batter over the beef mixture, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and fully cooked through.
Add Cheese and Sour Cream: Remove the casserole from the oven. Spread the sour cream over the top, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the casserole. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Description:
John Wayne Casserole is a satisfying and flavorful layered casserole that brings together the best of Tex-Mex cuisine. The seasoned ground beef forms the savory base, while the cornbread topping adds a slightly sweet contrast. A creamy layer of sour cream and melted cheese completes this rich and comforting dish. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner or a potluck event.
Tips:
For extra flavor, you can add some chopped green chilies, jalapeños, or bell peppers to the beef mixture.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add some hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or top it with salsa after baking.
Make sure to drain the beef well before adding the seasoning to avoid excess grease in the casserole.
If you don’t like cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or even a homemade creamy sauce.
Variations:
Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for black beans or a combination of beans, corn, and roasted vegetables for a meatless option.
Chicken Version: Replace the ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast for a lighter take on this casserole.
Spicy Version: For a spicier casserole, use spicy taco seasoning, add jalapeños to the beef mixture, or top with a spicy salsa before serving.
Corrections:
If the cornbread topping seems too thick, you can add a bit more milk to the batter to help it spread evenly over the beef mixture.
Ensure that the casserole is fully cooked before serving. If the cornbread topping is still raw in the center, give it a little extra baking time.
Enjoy:
Enjoy your warm, cheesy, and comforting John Wayne Casserole! Perfect for a cozy family dinner or feeding a crowd, it’s sure to be a hit at the table with its bold flavors and satisfying layers.