John Wayne Casserole

John Wayne Casserole Recipe

John Wayne Casserole is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines ground beef, Mexican-inspired seasonings, cheese, and a creamy sour cream topping, all baked together to create a comforting meal. It’s a family favorite with the bold flavors of a taco but in casserole form!

Ingredients:

For the Meat Layer:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels (optional)

For the Casserole:

• 8 small flour tortillas (or 6 large tortillas, cut in half)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin (optional)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks.
2. Once the beef is cooked through, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Add the frozen corn kernels if using and mix to combine. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, layer the bottom with 4 of the flour tortillas. You can overlap them slightly to cover the entire bottom.
3. Spread half of the ground beef mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese.
4. Add another layer of 4 tortillas on top of the cheese, followed by the remaining ground beef mixture. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, diced green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin (if using). Spread this mixture evenly over the top layer of cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
2. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. You can pair it with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Why This John Wayne Casserole is a Must-Try:

• Bold Flavors: The taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies give this casserole a flavorful kick, while the creamy topping adds richness.
• Easy and Quick: This casserole comes together quickly and is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a dish to serve a crowd.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy layers and mild spice make it a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s a fun twist on traditional tacos.
• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. It also freezes well for later use.

Pro Tips:

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or olives to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Taco Variations: Try using ground turkey or chicken in place of the ground beef for a lighter version.
• Cheese Options: You can mix different cheeses like pepper jack for a little heat or use a Mexican cheese blend for extra flavor.

Perfect Pairings:

• Serve this John Wayne Casserole with a side of Mexican rice, guacamole, or a tangy salsa.
• Pair with a crisp margarita or a cold glass of iced tea for the ultimate Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok ChoyTex-Mex experience.