When I’m in the mood for a hearty, comforting dish that’s sure to please a crowd, I turn to this John Wayne Casserole.
Named after the legendary cowboy himself, this casserole is the perfect dish to whip up for a family dinner or a potluck, and trust me, it’s always a hit.
So, grab your skillet and let’s rustle up some deliciousness that would make the Duke proud!
John Wayne Casserole
Treat your taste buds to the bold flavors of John Wayne Casserole, a comforting and delicious dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 diced onion
- 1 diced bell pepper
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can of diced green chilies
- 1 cup cornbread mix
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: green onions, diced tomatoes, black olives
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 606Total Fat: 35gSaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 114mgSodium: 979mgCarbohydrates: 40gFiber: 4gSugar: 15gProtein: 32g
The Key Ingredients for a Legendary Dish
• 1 pound ground beef: The star of the show. You can use lean or regular ground beef depending on your preference, but I recommend regular for a juicier, flavorful base.
• 1 diced onion: The onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish. It’s a small detail but essential for rounding out the flavors.
• 1 diced bell pepper: Red, green, or yellow, the bell pepper adds a little crunch and color to the casserole, plus a slight tangy sweetness.
• 1 cup sour cream: Creamy and smooth, sour cream brings richness and balances out the other flavors in the dish. It adds a slight tang to the overall flavor.
• 1 can of cream of mushroom soup: The classic ingredient that adds both creaminess and savory depth. You can substitute with cream of chicken soup if you prefer.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Cheese is a must for casseroles, and cheddar’s sharpness makes it the perfect choice to complement the beef and sour cream.
• 1 can of diced green chilies: A subtle heat and a pop of flavor. The green chilies give the casserole a southwestern flair and are what sets this dish apart.
• 1 cup cornbread mix: Here’s where the magic happens! Cornbread mix turns this casserole into a hearty, almost cornbread-like crust that brings everything together.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Seasoning is the secret to making this casserole sing. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste, but don’t be shy—season generously!
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will get everything ready for your delicious casserole.
2. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked, breaking it up as you go. Once it’s nicely browned, drain any excess grease.
3. Add Veggies: Toss in the diced onion and bell pepper with the ground beef in the skillet. Cook until the veggies are soft and tender, adding a nice flavor to the mix.
4. Mix the Creamy Topping: In a mixing bowl, stir together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cornbread mix, and diced green chilies. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy, cheesy goodness is going to make your casserole irresistible!
5. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the ground beef mixture evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Then, pour the creamy mixture over the top, spreading it out to cover the beef layer completely.
6. Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Cool and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to slice.
8. Garnish and Enjoy: If you’re feeling fancy, top your casserole with diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, or sliced black olives for an extra burst of flavor and color. Then, dig in and enjoy!
This casserole is a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It’s loaded with flavor, easy to make, and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone!
What to Pair With Your John Wayne Casserole?
This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few sides and we all love pairing some wonderful flavors with one another. So, serve your casserole with a side salad to balance out the richness, or some crispy tortilla chips for a little extra crunch.
A few roasted vegetables or a simple slaw can add a refreshing element to the meal that will truly bring it to the next level.
A Dish for All Ages and Occasions
Whether you’re feeding a large family, hosting a party, or just craving something comforting on a chilly evening, the John Wayne Casserole fits the bill perfectly. It’s versatile, satisfying, and easy to make—just the kind of dish that brings people together.
So next time you’re looking for something to please the crowd, make sure you rustle up this legendary dish. The Duke would definitely approve.