Hearty Slow Cooker John Wayne Casserole

July 29, 2024

easy

Let me take you back to a touching moment from 1978. John Wayne, an iconic figure affectionately known as “the Duke,” was battling cancer when he received a heartfelt request from a 10-year-old girl in California. She was gathering recipes from celebrities for a cookbook to benefit the American Cancer Society. Moved by her initiative, John Wayne contributed a breakfast casserole recipe featuring cheese, eggs, and green chiles. Over the years, this recipe has evolved, capturing the hearts and kitchens of many.

Today, I’m excited to share with you a slow cooker adaptation of this beloved John Wayne Casserole. This version has a hearty twist, incorporating ground beef, taco seasoning, and tater tots making it a perfect, fuss-free meal that’s a hit with everyone.

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Ingredients

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	2tablespoons olive oil
	1 onion, diced
	1pound ground beef
	1 clove garlic, minced
	1teaspoon salt
	½teaspoon pepper
	1packet taco seasoning
	¾cup water
	1cup sour cream
	2cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
	1(32-ounce) package frozen tater tots
	1(14-ounce) can diced green chiles

Directions

1.

Start the Base

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it softens, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook, stirring and breaking up the meat, until the beef is nicely browned, about 5 more minutes.

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2.

Season the Beef

Stir in the taco seasoning and water, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the liquid has reduced slightly.

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3.

Layer in Slow Cooker

Place the frozen tater tots in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. Spoon the beef mixture over the tater tots. In a medium bowl, mix together the sour cream with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and spread this over the beef. Finally, layer the diced green chiles on top.

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4.

Cook

Cover and set the slow cooker on low heat. Cook for about 4 hours.

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5.

Add More Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese over the top, cover again, and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

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6.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the casserole hot, right out of the slow cooker, and enjoy a comforting, delicious meal that brings a bit of history to your table.

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Notes

This Hearty Slow Cooker John Wayne Casserole is not just easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. It’s a wonderful way to keep the legacy of John Wayne alive in your kitchen, through a dish that’s as robust and enduring as his character. Enjoy the rich flavors and the simplicity of this delightful meal!