John Wayne Casserole 🥩🧀

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John Wayne Casserole 🥩🧀 – Don’t Lose This Recipe!

Introduction

John Wayne Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for meat lovers and cheese enthusiasts. This hearty, all-in-one dish is named after the legendary actor John Wayne, symbolizing bold, robust, and satisfying flavors. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave a meal that’s both filling and indulgent, this casserole combines layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and crispy potatoes for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Whether you’re new to cooking casseroles or a seasoned kitchen warrior, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a kick)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups frozen or fresh diced potatoes
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted (if using breadcrumbs)

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
  • 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano

Instructions & Methods

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  2. Cook the Beef:
    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and chili powder. Cook for 3–5 minutes until onions are soft and fragrant.
  3. Prepare the Sauce:
    In a medium bowl, mix the condensed cream of mushroom soup with milk. Pour half of this mixture over the cooked beef in the skillet and stir to combine.
  4. Assemble the Casserole:
    • Spread half of the diced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared dish.
    • Layer the beef and sauce mixture over the potatoes.
    • Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
    • Add the remaining diced potatoes and top with the remaining cheese.
    • If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and sprinkle over the top for a golden crust.
  5. Bake:
    Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Rest and Serve:
    Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.

History & Formation

Casseroles have been a staple of American home cooking since the early 20th century. They were particularly popular in the 1950s and 60s for their convenience and ability to feed large families with minimal fuss. John Wayne Casserole, while modern in naming, pays homage to the hearty meals favored in the era of cowboy films—simple, filling, and unapologetically meaty. The layers of beef, potatoes, and cheese reflect the rugged, satisfying essence of John Wayne himself: bold, reliable, and unforgettable.

Benefits

  • Protein-packed: Ground beef and cheese provide a rich source of protein.
  • Comfort food: Perfect for stress-relief meals and family bonding.
  • Customizable: Easy to add vegetables for extra fiber and nutrients.
  • Time-efficient: One-dish meal reduces cleanup while still being delicious.

Nutrition (Approximate per serving, 1/8 of casserole)

  • Calories: 400–450 kcal
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Calcium: 200mg

(Nutrition will vary depending on add-ins and cheese type.)

Conclusion

John Wayne Casserole isn’t just food—it’s a celebration of bold flavors and comfort dining. It’s ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or any night you want a meal that’s filling and impressive without being complicated. Once you make it, this casserole will likely become a permanent fixture in your recipe rotation.

For the Lovers of Casseroles

For those who adore cheesy, meaty, and soulful dishes: this is your dream come true. Pair it with a simple green salad or roasted veggies to balance the richness, and watch your loved ones come back for seconds. The beauty of this casserole is that it satisfies both the heart and the stomach—a true culinary homage to comfort food lovers everywhere.

If you want, I can also create a step-by-step photo guide version of this recipe so it looks as amazing as it tastes—perfect for saving and sharing.

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