Pioneer Woman–Inspired John Wayne Casserole: A Cheesy Comfort Food Classic
If you’re looking for a hearty, family-friendly dish that combines bold flavors with comforting textures, the Pioneer Woman’s version of the John Wayne Casserole is an absolute winner. This recipe takes the idea of a traditional casserole and gives it a Tex-Mex twist, making it both satisfying and fun to prepare.
The dish starts with seasoned ground beef cooked with taco spices, creating a flavorful base that brings just the right amount of kick. Layered on top is a fluffy, golden crust made from canned biscuits, which not only saves time but also adds a soft, buttery bite to every forkful. The real star, however, is the cheese. Melted cheddar weaves its way throughout the layers, creating a rich and gooey texture that ties the whole casserole together.
What makes this dish so appealing is its versatility. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough to serve at potlucks or casual gatherings. Add a side of fresh salad or a dollop of sour cream to balance out the richness, and you’ve got a meal that everyone at the table will remember.
Ready in just over an hour, this Pioneer Woman John Wayne Casserole proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated—it just needs to be delicious.
A classic Tex-Mex comfort casserole layering a biscuit crust with taco-seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and a creamy, cheesy topping.
Ingredients
- 2 lb ground beef
- 1 oz taco seasoning + water per package directions
- 1 (16 oz) can large refrigerated biscuits
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 8 oz cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
- 1 onion, sliced and divided
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 (4 oz) can sliced jalapeños, drained
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Press biscuits into the bottom of a greased 9×13 dish and bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, brown the beef, drain, and prepare with taco seasoning and water.
- In a bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, half the cheddar, and half the onions.
- Layer over the baked biscuit crust: taco meat, sliced tomatoes, peppers and remaining onions, and jalapeños.
- Spread the creamy mixture over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.