Looking for a comforting and hearty meal? The John Wayne Casserole is a flavorful dish that combines ground beef, cheese, and a variety of vegetables, all baked to perfection. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd. This casserole is an all-in-one meal that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup tater tots
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/6 of the casserole):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 20g
– Fat: 22g
– Carbohydrates: 24g
– Fiber: 3g
This analysis is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, draining excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cream of mushroom soup.
5. Mix in the frozen mixed vegetables and garlic powder.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Layer the beef mixture evenly in a greased casserole dish.
8. Top with tater tots, covering the beef mixture completely.
9. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
10. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a leaner option. Swap cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce for a different flavor profile. Fresh vegetables can replace frozen ones for added freshness.
Serving and Pairings
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with salsa or sour cream on the side for extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-sealed.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the beef to prevent dryness.
– Don’t skip the onion; it adds essential flavor.
– Ensure the tater tots are evenly spread for even cooking.
– Check for seasoning; taste before baking.
– Avoid using too much liquid; the casserole should be thick.
Helpful Tips
– Use a deep baking dish for better layering.
– Feel free to add spices like cumin or chili powder for more flavor.
– For a crispy topping, broil for a few minutes after baking.
– Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated. You can also repurpose them in tacos or burritos for a different meal.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or spinach to enhance the dish.
Is this casserole kid-friendly?
Yes, the cheesy and savory flavors make it appealing to kids. You can adjust the spice level to suit their taste.
How long does it take to bake?
The casserole typically takes about 30-35 minutes to bake, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Conclusion
The John Wayne Casserole is a delicious and filling dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Try it today and enjoy the comfort of a homemade meal!
John Wayne Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup tater tots
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, draining excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and cream of mushroom soup.
- Mix in the frozen mixed vegetables and garlic powder.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Layer the beef mixture evenly in a greased casserole dish.
- Top with tater tots, covering the beef mixture completely.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
