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John Wayne Casserole

John Wayne Casserole
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John Wayne Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish combining ground beef, potatoes or potato chips, cheddar cheese, and a savory tomato-based sauce. Easy to prepare and family-friendly, this casserole fills your kitchen with warmth and is perfect for dinners, potlucks, and meal prep. Its rich flavors and satisfying textures make it a versatile staple that can be customized to suit various preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) canned tomatoes with juices
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2–3 medium potatoes, sliced OR 1-2 cups potato chips
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt (to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried herbs (such as oregano or thyme)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat. Add finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and chopped green bell peppers. Sauté until softened and fragrant to build your flavor foundation.
  2. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in canned tomatoes with their juices and beef broth. Sprinkle in the paprika, salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
  3. Layer the Casserole: Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish. Layer sliced potatoes or scatter potato chips evenly over the surface, creating a comforting and textural contrast.
  4. Add Cheese and Bake: Generously spread shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  5. Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set nicely, making serving easier and keeping slices intact.

Notes

  • Use fresh vegetables and quality ground beef for best flavor.
  • Season properly at each stage to build layers of flavor.
  • Distribute potatoes or chips evenly for consistent texture.
  • Let the casserole rest before serving to help it hold shape and improve taste.
  • If cheese browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil while baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: John Wayne Casserole, beef casserole, comfort food, family dinner, easy casserole, hearty meal, baked casserole

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/john-wayne-casserole/