Easy Slow Cooker John Wayne Casserole

Saddle up for a hearty, delicious adventure with this Easy Slow Cooker John Wayne Casserole. This recipe is inspired by the legendary actor himself and brings together layers of flavorful ingredients that will leave you and your family wanting more. Perfect for busy days, this slow cooker version allows you to set it and forget it, making dinnertime a breeze.

The first time I made this casserole, I was looking for something that could satisfy my family’s cravings for a warm, comforting meal. I stumbled upon the idea of a John Wayne Casserole and knew I had to try it. With layers of ground beef, vegetables, and cheese, all topped with a biscuit crust, it sounded like the perfect comfort food. I adapted it for the slow cooker to make it even more convenient. The result? A flavorful, layered dish that had everyone coming back for seconds.

This casserole has quickly become a staple in our household. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something filling and satisfying. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work, so you can focus on other things while it cooks. The best part is the cheesy, biscuit topping that gets perfectly golden and fluffy. It’s a dish that brings everyone to the table with a smile.

Quick Overview: A Todd Wilbur-Inspired Summary

Easy Slow Cooker John Wayne Casserole is a layered dish featuring ground beef, vegetables, and cheese, all topped with a fluffy biscuit crust. This slow cooker version makes it easy and convenient, perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a family favorite.

A Family Favorite: An Exciting Story

One evening, after a long day, I decided to try out this recipe I had heard so much about. As the casserole cooked in the slow cooker, the house filled with the most inviting aroma. My husband walked in, took a deep breath, and immediately asked, “What’s for dinner?” When I told him it was a John Wayne Casserole, he was intrigued. We sat down to eat, and after just one bite, he declared it a new favorite. The kids loved it too, and now it’s a go-to recipe for us.

Why This Easy Slow Cooker John Wayne Casserole?

Layers of Flavor: Ground beef, vegetables, cheese, and a biscuit topping create a delightful combination.

Easy and Convenient: The slow cooker does most of the work, making it perfect for busy days.

Comfort Food: A warm, hearty dish that satisfies the whole family.

Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables and cheeses.

How to Make Easy Slow Cooker John Wayne Casserole

1. Prepare the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
   • Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
2. Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
   • Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
   • Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly at the bottom.
   • Add a layer of diced tomatoes with green chilies, followed by corn and black beans.
   • Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the layers.
   • Top with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
3. Prepare the Biscuit Topping:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the Bisquick mix, milk, and egg until just combined.
   • Pour the biscuit mixture over the cheese layer in the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly.
4. Cook the Casserole:
   • Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the biscuit topping is golden and cooked through.
5. Serve:
   • Scoop out generous portions and enjoy the delicious layers of flavor.

Tips For Easy Slow Cooker John Wayne Casserole

• Taco Seasoning: Adjust the amount of taco seasoning to suit your taste.
• Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite cheeses or a combination of different types.
• Vegetables: Customize with your favorite vegetables, like diced jalapeños for extra heat.

Substitutions and Variations

• Meat: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter version.
• Beans: Substitute pinto beans or kidney beans for the black beans.
• Vegetarian: Omit the meat and add more vegetables, like zucchini or mushrooms.

Make a Healthier Version

• Biscuit Mix: Use a whole-grain biscuit mix or make your own using whole wheat flour.
• Cheese: Use reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories.
• Beans: Use low-sodium beans and corn to reduce sodium content.

And there you have it! Don’t forget to let us know how your Easy Slow Cooker John Wayne Casserole turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes:

Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Slow Cooker John Wayne Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the layers and refrigerate them overnight. Add the biscuit topping just before cooking.

Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes. You may want to add a bit of extra seasoning for flavor.

What can I serve with this casserole? It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

How do I know when the biscuit topping is done? The biscuit topping should be golden brown and cooked through. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

Can I use a different type of biscuit mix? Yes, any biscuit mix or homemade biscuit dough can be used.

Is this casserole spicy? It has a mild heat from the diced tomatoes with green chilies and taco seasoning. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Can I add other toppings? Yes, try adding sliced green onions, sour cream, or avocado slices on top before serving.

What size slow cooker should I use? A 6-quart slow cooker works well for this recipe.

How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this without a slow cooker? Yes, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the biscuit topping is golden and cooked through.

What other meats can I use? Ground pork or sausage would also work well in this casserole.

Slow Cooker John Wayne Casserole

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: Dinner Recipe, Lunch Recipe, Slow Cooker, Weight watchers

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Casserole:

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained

• 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained

• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 packet taco seasoning

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

• For the Biscuit Topping:

• 1 cup Bisquick mix

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1 large egg

Directions

• Prepare the Ground Beef:
• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
• Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
• Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
• Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
• Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly at the bottom.
• Add a layer of diced tomatoes with green chilies, followed by corn and black beans.
• Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the layers.
• Top with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
• Prepare the Biscuit Topping:
• In a medium bowl, combine the Bisquick mix, milk, and egg until just combined.
• Pour the biscuit mixture over the cheese layer in the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly.
• Cook the Casserole:
• Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the biscuit topping is golden and cooked through.
• Serve:
• Scoop out generous portions and enjoy the delicious layers of flavor.