The John Wayne Casserole, an indulgent, comforting dish, is touted to have been named after the American film icon himself. Legend has it that it originated from a community cookbook where John Wayne submitted a similar recipe. This casserole features a flavorful mix of seasoned ground beef, bell peppers, and a biscuit crust, topped with a melty cheese blend. It's a hearty choice for family dinners or gatherings where you want something satisfying and a bit nostalgic.

This robust casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through its richness. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, which complement the creamy, cheesy texture of the casserole. A side of garlic bread would also be a splendid addition to sop up any delicious remnants.

Servings: 8

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 package taco seasoning
1/2 cup water
1 can (4 oz) green chiles, drained
1 can (2.25 oz) sliced black olives, drained
1 package (8 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tomato, chopped
1 cup of salsa

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and green bell pepper over medium heat until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender.

3. Drain any excess fat and add taco seasoning and water to the skillet. Simmer for a few minutes until thickened.

4. Stir in green chiles and black olives, then remove from heat.

5. Press the biscuit dough into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish, sealing the edges together to form a base.

6. Layer half of the shredded cheese over the biscuit dough.

7. Spread the beef mixture over the cheese layer, and then top with the remaining cheese.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges of the dough are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

9. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh tomato, and a side of salsa.

For those looking to switch things up, consider adding a layer of refried beans beneath the beef mixture for extra heartiness. Swapping in ground turkey or chicken for the beef offers a lighter take on this classic recipe. If spice is your thing, mix some diced jalapeños into the beef or add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

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