The Duke’s Hearty Casserole

Prepare to delight your taste buds with this incredibly easy, hearty, and utterly satisfying John Wayne Casserole. This isn’t just any casserole; it’s a delicious modern twist on the original John Wayne casserole recipe, elevated with seasoned ground beef and a generous amount of cheese. Whether you’re seeking a filling dinner idea or a crowd-pleasing dish, this casserole delivers. What’s more, it’s naturally low-carb and can be effortlessly adapted to be gluten-free or keto-friendly, making it a versatile addition to any meal plan for a wholesome family dinner.

My journey into the captivating world of classic Western films truly began when I met my husband. Before him, my movie-watching habits were sporadic at best, limited to only a handful of visits to the cinema over a decade. But it wasn’t long before the magic of the big screen, particularly the rugged charm and timeless narratives of Westerns, completely captivated me. This shared interest quickly blossomed into a cherished bond, a new tradition we built together.

Western movies were an entirely novel genre for me. My husband, on the other hand, had grown up steeped in their lore, watching them religiously with his grandfather from a very young age. Naturally, the iconic figure of John Wayne was a recurring star in countless Westerns we enjoyed. His powerful presence, unwavering determination, and memorable portrayals of American heroes left a profound and lasting impression, not just on the screen, but also deeply embedded in popular culture, influencing everything from fashion to, surprisingly, food.

Of all his cinematic masterpieces, my absolute favorite remains True Grit. It’s a poignant and beautifully crafted film that moves me to tears every single time, a powerful testament to Wayne’s profound acting talent and enduring charisma in the later stages of his illustrious career. In fact, I’d confidently place it among my top favorite movies of all time (though Steel Magnolias still holds a special, unchallenged spot as number one!).

Given my newfound appreciation for “The Duke” and his incredible legacy, you can imagine my sheer excitement when I first heard about a dish called “John Wayne Casserole.” The moment the name crossed my path, I knew, without a shadow of a doubt, that this was a recipe I simply had to try for myself! As I delved into various online culinary resources, perusing a multitude of recipes, a question began to nag at me: did the legendary John Wayne genuinely incorporate ingredients like tater tots or biscuits into his signature casserole? These ingredients seemed somewhat out of place, perhaps not as readily available or common in the culinary landscape of his era, prompting me to embark on a delightful quest for the dish’s true and original origins.

Uncovering the Authentic John Wayne Casserole Recipe

My extensive research soon unveiled a fascinating truth: the original John Wayne Casserole was, in fact, exceedingly simple in its composition, a stark contrast to many of the more elaborate and ingredient-heavy modern interpretations I had initially discovered. The foundational recipe was elegantly straightforward, calling for just a handful of core ingredients: farm-fresh eggs, a generous medley of cheeses, mild diced green chilies, and a rich, creamy liquid base of evaporated milk (though heavy cream is a popular substitute today). While it naturally included a few subtle seasonings to enhance its flavor profile, the underlying structure and primary components of this authentic dish were remarkably different from the contemporary versions that often feature starchy additions like tater tots or biscuits.

This humble yet iconic recipe first graced the pages of a special charity cookbook compiled in the vibrant 1970s by a remarkable young woman named Cara Connery. Cara embarked on an ambitious and heartfelt project to raise funds for the American Cancer Society. Her innovative idea was to reach out to a plethora of celebrities and famous personalities of the time, asking them to contribute their favorite recipes for her culinary compilation. John Wayne, known for his generosity and commitment to various causes, was among the many notable figures who graciously responded to Cara’s call, submitting what would later become widely known as his signature casserole.

Cara meticulously gathered these star-studded culinary contributions into a treasured volume titled “Cooking with Love From Cara and Her Friends.” As an avid and passionate collector of vintage cookbooks, discovering this unique piece of culinary and historical memorabilia instantly sparked a fervent desire within me to add it to my personal library. Despite countless hours spent scouring online marketplaces, antique shops, and specialized book retailers, I’ve regrettably yet to find an available copy. My enduring hope is that one day, perhaps during a leisurely browse through a quaint local thrift shop or a dusty estate sale, I’ll finally stumble upon this elusive treasure. I am certain it would be a veritable goldmine, brimming with popular vintage recipes that offer a delicious and nostalgic glimpse into the culinary trends and tastes of that bygone era!

The Legend Behind the Name: Why “John Wayne Casserole”?

It’s a curious, yet charming, aspect of culinary history that the original recipe graciously submitted by John Wayne himself was never actually given the official title “John Wayne Casserole.” However, through the passage of time and the power of popular culture, this simple, hearty dish has become inextricably linked to the legendary actor, adopting his name rather than its more generic or descriptive original moniker. The transformation of its name speaks volumes about the enduring impact and widespread recognition of John Wayne’s iconic persona.

My personal theory behind this enduring name change is quite straightforward: it’s simply more engaging, more memorable, and undeniably more interesting to refer to it as “John Wayne Casserole” than to use a more descriptive, yet ultimately less captivating, title like “Egg and Cheese Casserole.” The Duke’s powerful and recognizable name instantly adds a layer of mystique, a sense of tradition, and an undeniable touch of star power that undoubtedly contributed significantly to its widespread popularity and lasting legacy as a beloved dish in American home cooking. It’s a testament to how a celebrity’s influence can extend even to the realm of comfort food.

Top Reasons to Savor This John Wayne Casserole Recipe:

1. A Timeless Culinary Legacy: You’re not just preparing a simple meal; you’re creating a dish steeped in fascinating culinary history. This John Wayne Casserole carries the unique distinction of having been contributed to a meaningful charity cookbook by none other than “The Duke” himself, John Wayne. This makes it a truly time-honored recipe with an intriguing backstory, connecting your kitchen to a piece of American legend.
2. Effortlessly Simple Ingredients: Forget the stress of searching for obscure or specialty items. This authentic John Wayne Casserole requires only a handful of readily available, straightforward ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry or can easily find at any grocery store. There’s absolutely no need for cans of biscuits, frozen tater tots, or any other additions that stray from the simple, yet profound, spirit of the original recipe.
3. Delicious and Diet-Friendly Versatility: Our version, inspired by the beloved classic, offers a flavorful and satisfying experience reminiscent of a taco casserole. It’s remarkably versatile and thoughtfully crafted to be naturally very low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent and guilt-free choice for those actively managing their carb intake. Furthermore, with a minor adjustment, this delicious dish can be effortlessly adapted to be completely gluten-free or to perfectly align with a strict keto diet without ever compromising on its rich taste or hearty satisfaction.
4. A Hearty Meal for Every Palate: This John Wayne Casserole is generously built with robust layers of savory seasoned ground beef and an abundance of rich, melty cheese, creating a truly substantial and comforting meal. Its universally appealing flavors, which are both comforting and familiar, make it an ideal option for families, particularly those with discerning or picky eaters. It’s a dish designed to ensure everyone at the table finds something to absolutely love, making dinner time a harmonious experience.

Key Ingredients for Your Hearty John Wayne Casserole

• Shredded Cheese: The very soul of any truly great casserole! For this particular John Wayne Casserole recipe, you’ll want a delightful and flavorful blend of two distinct types of cheese. We recommend sharp shredded cheddar cheese for its classic tang, robust flavor, and beautiful golden melt, complemented by Monterey Jack cheese for its exceptional melting qualities, mild, creamy texture, and wonderful stretch. If Monterey Jack is unavailable in your local market, mozzarella cheese or Colby Jack are perfectly acceptable and delicious substitutes that will still yield a wonderfully cheesy and comforting result.
• Green Chilies: We utilize canned diced green chilies, which might evoke thoughts of spice, but rest assured, these are typically very mild varieties. They are primarily added to impart a subtle, earthy flavor and a touch of vibrant color without introducing any significant heat, making the finished casserole appealing and enjoyable for all palates, even those sensitive to spice.
• Eggs: Four large eggs form the foundation of our unique, light, and airy topping, which is a signature characteristic of this casserole. A key culinary technique involves carefully separating the yolks from the whites; the yolks contribute rich flavor and a beautiful golden hue, while the whipped whites create an incredibly light, fluffy, almost soufflé-like layer that beautifully complements the savory base without any discernible “eggy” taste.
• Heavy Cream: I personally prefer using heavy cream for the luxurious mouthfeel, unparalleled richness, and creamy texture it imparts to the egg topping. However, for those who wish to adhere strictly to the original recipe as submitted by John Wayne, evaporated milk is a perfectly acceptable and equally delicious alternative, as it was the ingredient called for in his initial submission.
• Seasoning: The seasoning profile for this casserole is intentionally kept refreshingly simple – a modest touch of salt to enhance flavors and a delicate pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle warmth. This minimalist approach works perfectly, especially when paired with the optional, but highly recommended, flavorful seasoned ground beef mixture. If you opt to omit the ground beef and taco seasoning for a vegetarian version, feel free to enhance the egg topping with a more generous blend of your favorite spices to taste.
• Flour: Just one single tablespoon of all-purpose flour is incorporated into this recipe. Its primary role is as a thickening agent for the egg topping, ensuring that it sets beautifully and holds its structure during baking. For those following a gluten-free or low-carb diet, suitable and effective alternatives include a small amount of arrowroot powder or a tiny pinch of xanthan gum to achieve the desired creamy and stable consistency.
• Tomatoes: Thin slices of fresh tomatoes serve as a classic and visually appealing finishing touch for the original John Wayne Casserole. Traditionally, Roma, plum, or San Marzano varieties are recommended due to their firm texture and lower seed content. They add a vibrant pop of color and a fresh, tangy counterpoint to the rich flavors of the casserole. If fresh tomatoes aren’t to your liking, please feel free to omit them entirely without impacting the core flavor.

Optional Hearty Enhancements:

• Ground Beef: While the truly original John Wayne Casserole was a meat-free creation, adding a savory layer of lean ground beef or ground turkey transforms this into a truly substantial, protein-packed, and satisfying main course, perfect for dinner. For a slightly lighter option without sacrificing any flavor, ground turkey can be used interchangeably in the meat mixture with excellent results.
• Taco Seasoning: This essential ingredient is incorporated, along with a bit of water, to perfectly season the ground beef, infusing it with a delicious and aromatic Tex-Mex flavor profile. You can opt for a convenient store-bought packet of taco seasoning, or for a fresher, more customizable taste, approximately 2-3 tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning works wonderfully and allows you to control the spice level.

It’s an important historical note that the true, original John Wayne Casserole, as submitted by the actor, did not feature ground beef. However, in contemporary interpretations and adaptations, the addition of meat has become a widely popular and very welcome enhancement, transforming it into a more robust meal. While I made a conscious effort to maintain as much fidelity to the authentic original as possible – which means you certainly won’t find any canned biscuits or frozen tater tots in this recipe! – I also wanted to ensure this iteration would serve as a truly satisfying and filling casserole, perfectly suited for a complete and nourishing weeknight dinner. The thoughtful inclusion of a seasoned ground beef layer not only significantly boosts the protein content and adds immense depth of flavor but also effectively helps to satisfy even the hungriest appetites. An additional fantastic bonus? This delicious modification keeps the casserole naturally low in carbs and incredibly easy to make gluten-free, appealing to a wide range of dietary needs.

How to Craft Your John Wayne Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Before you dive into assembling the delightful layers of this casserole, a little preparation goes a long way! Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and lightly coating a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This cheesy, comforting casserole comes together surprisingly quickly, so having your equipment ready and all your ingredients prepped ahead of time will ensure a smooth, efficient, and enjoyable cooking process.

Preparing the Optional Taco Meat Layer

If you’ve chosen to include the hearty ground beef, begin this step by heating a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Add your chosen ground beef (lean beef or ground turkey works wonderfully for this recipe) and, using a spatula or spoon, crumble it as it cooks. Continue to cook the meat, stirring occasionally, until absolutely no pink remains and it is fully browned. Once cooked, it’s crucial to carefully drain off any excess fat to prevent your casserole from becoming greasy and to maintain a lighter texture.

Next, generously sprinkle the cooked ground beef with your taco seasoning and add the specified ⅔ cup of water. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the meat. Allow this flavorful mixture to simmer gently for a few minutes, cooking just until the liquid begins to thicken into a rich, aromatic “sauce” that beautifully coats and clings to the beef. This step truly infuses the meat with a delightful Tex-Mex essence, preparing it for the casserole.

Once seasoned and lightly sauced, transfer the prepared ground beef mixture to your prepped 9×13-inch baking dish. Use the back of a spoon to spread it out into an even, consistent layer across the entire bottom of the dish. This forms the savory and satisfying foundation of your John Wayne Casserole.

Next, evenly sprinkle the diced green chilies directly over the layer of seasoned ground beef. Take a moment to distribute them as uniformly as possible across the entire surface; this ensures a consistent subtle flavor and a touch of color in every delicious bite.

In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine your shredded Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar cheeses. Once thoroughly mixed, generously sprinkle this abundant cheese blend over the green chilies and ground beef layers in the baking dish. This creates a thick, gooey, and irresistible cheesy middle layer. Set the dish aside temporarily while you dedicate your attention to preparing the final, signature topping layer.

Crafting the Signature Fluffy Egg Topping

This light, airy, and unique topping is truly what distinguishes the John Wayne Casserole and elevates it above ordinary dishes. Begin by carefully separating the eggs. Place the egg yolks into one medium-sized mixing bowl, and the egg whites into a separate, impeccably clean medium-sized mixing bowl. It is absolutely crucial that the egg white bowl is completely free of any grease or even the tiniest speck of yolk residue for the egg whites to whip up successfully and achieve maximum volume.

To the bowl containing the vibrant egg yolks, add the heavy cream (or evaporated milk if you are using it for a more authentic touch), the single tablespoon of flour (or your chosen gluten-free/keto friendly thickener), the ½ teaspoon of salt, and the ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Whisk all these ingredients together vigorously and thoroughly until they are completely combined, smooth, and homogenous. Set this rich yolk mixture aside for just a moment.

Achieving Perfectly Fluffy Egg Whites

Now, direct your full attention to the egg whites. Using an electric hand mixer (or a stand mixer equipped with the whisk attachment, which makes this step even easier), begin to beat the egg whites on a medium-high speed. Continue beating them steadily until beautiful, soft peaks begin to form. This means that when you carefully lift the whisk from the bowl, the egg whites will hold their shape, but the very tips will gently curl over, resembling soft, ethereal clouds. Be mindful not to over-beat them, as this can lead to dry, crumbly whites that won’t integrate as smoothly. Keep a close eye on their consistency!

Once your egg whites have achieved the perfect soft peak stage, gently incorporate them into the richer egg yolk mixture you prepared earlier. Using a flexible rubber spatula, slowly and carefully fold them in. The primary goal here is to combine the two mixtures thoroughly without deflating the airy volume and lightness you’ve meticulously created in the egg whites. Employ a light hand and gentle, deliberate movements to ensure your topping remains wonderfully fluffy and maintains its delicate texture.

Once the mixtures are fully combined into a harmonious blend, carefully spoon and spread the whipped egg mixture directly on top of the cheese layer in your baking dish. Aim to create an even, consistent layer across the entire surface, gently spreading it out with the back of a spoon. Don’t fret if it’s not absolutely flawless or if a tiny bit of cheese mixes into the topping – the delicious and impressive end result will undoubtedly speak for itself!

For a truly classic and visually appealing finish, delicately top the casserole with very thinly sliced fresh Roma tomatoes. I personally love to arrange them thoughtfully and artfully, spacing them out across the surface so that each anticipated serving is graced with at least one vibrant and juicy tomato slice. This not only adds a beautiful burst of color but also provides a fresh, tangy counterpoint that cuts through the richness of the casserole. Of course, if tomatoes are not to your personal liking, or if you simply prefer a different aesthetic, please feel entirely free to leave them out without any compromise to the casserole’s core flavors.

Baking Your Delicious John Wayne Casserole

With all the layers meticulously assembled, carefully place your beautifully crafted, tomato-topped John Wayne Casserole into the preheated oven. Bake it for approximately 40 to 50 minutes. You’ll know your casserole is perfectly done when several key indicators are met: the edges will be beautifully golden brown, the unique egg topping will be visibly set and lightly puffed, and the generous cheese layer underneath will be wonderfully melted, hot, and bubbly. The irresistible, comforting aroma filling your entire kitchen will undoubtedly be another delightful and tell-tale sign of its readiness!

Once baked to golden perfection, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. It’s absolutely crucial to resist the tempting urge to immediately dig in! For the best serving experience, allow the casserole to cool and rest for about 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This vital resting period serves a very important purpose: it allows the distinct layers within the casserole to properly set and firm up slightly. This ensures cleaner, more defined slices that hold their shape beautifully on the plate, making for a much more appealing and less messy presentation when it comes to serving time.

This versatile and hearty John Wayne Casserole pairs wonderfully with a diverse array of side dishes, making it an ideal centerpiece for any family dinner. I often love to serve it alongside simply steamed green beans or crisp broccoli, a refreshing side salad with vibrant bell peppers, or a light and fluffy rice pilaf. Essentially, consider any accompaniments you would typically enjoy with classic tacos or a fresh, vibrant taco salad – this casserole complements them all perfectly, elevating your meal into a truly satisfying and memorable experience.

Storing and Reheating Your John Wayne Casserole

• Storage: To ensure any leftover casserole remains fresh and delicious, transfer individual portions into airtight containers. Alternatively, allow the entire baking dish to cool completely to room temperature, then cover it tightly and securely with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Stored properly in the refrigerator, this casserole will maintain its excellent quality and flavor for approximately 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Reheating in the Microwave: For a quick and convenient way to enjoy individual servings, simply place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it in 30-second intervals, pausing to stir or check the temperature between each burst, until it is thoroughly warmed through to the center. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can sometimes cause the delicate egg topping to become slightly rubbery.
• Reheating in the Oven: For a more even and gentle reheat that truly preserves the casserole’s original texture and prevents drying out, place the cold casserole dish directly into a cold oven. Then, set your oven temperature to 350ºF (175ºC). Once the oven comes up to temperature, allow the casserole to warm for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until it is heated all the way through and the cheese layers are beautifully re-melted and bubbly. This method is particularly recommended as it prevents thermal shock, which can cause cold glass baking dishes to crack when exposed to sudden high heat.

Exciting John Wayne Casserole Variations to Explore

While our recipe proudly honors the authentic spirit of the original John Wayne Casserole, there are numerous delightful ways to adapt and personalize this versatile dish to perfectly suit your preferences, dietary needs, or simply to add a creative twist. Here are a few popular and delicious variations:

• With a Biscuit Crust: For those who desire a more robust, bready, and comforting foundation, incorporating a biscuit crust is an excellent choice. Simply open a can of your favorite refrigerated biscuits (or prepare homemade biscuit dough) and, using a rolling pin, flatten each biscuit slightly into a disc. Arrange these flattened biscuits in a single, even layer at the very bottom of your prepared casserole dish, forming a delicious crust. Then, layer the seasoned ground beef and all subsequent ingredients directly on top of this biscuit foundation as instructed in the main recipe.
• Using Biscuit Mix: An alternative and equally convenient approach to creating a biscuit base involves using a pre-packaged biscuit mix. Prepare one package of your preferred biscuit mix strictly according to the detailed instructions provided on the package, adding the specified amount of water or milk. Once mixed, pat this dough mixture evenly into the bottom of your casserole dish to form a cohesive, savory crust. Then, proceed to layer the ground beef and other delicious ingredients on top of this biscuit layer as directed.
• With Tater Tots: If you’re a devoted fan of the classic tater tot casserole, you can easily incorporate those crispy delights into this John Wayne Casserole. You have two primary options: either press a generous layer of frozen tater tots directly on top of the cheese layer before you add the fluffy egg topping, allowing them to bake and crisp up beautifully. Alternatively, you could choose to omit the egg topping entirely and simply cover the cheese layer with a single, even layer of tater tots. If you decide to use tater tots, you’ll need to increase your oven temperature to 400ºF (200ºC) and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are wonderfully golden brown and irresistibly crispy.

Smart Ingredient Substitutions for Your Casserole

Flexibility in the kitchen is a wonderful asset, and this John Wayne Casserole recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable when it comes to ingredient swaps. Feel free to customize it to fit your pantry, preferences, or dietary requirements:

• Ground Turkey: For those seeking a slightly lighter meal without making any significant sacrifices in terms of protein or satisfying texture, ground turkey is an excellent, straightforward, and effortless substitute for ground beef. It’s often a more economical choice as well, depending on local grocery prices, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option for your family dinners.
• Vegetarian Version: Surprisingly, the truly original John Wayne Casserole recipe, as it was first created, was inherently vegetarian! To effortlessly transform this recipe into a delicious meat-free version, simply skip the ground beef and the taco seasoning altogether. For enhanced flavor in the absence of meat, you might wish to add additional favorite seasonings to the egg mixture to taste. A key adjustment for the vegetarian option is to increase the amount of shredded cheddar cheese to a full 16 ounces to ensure it remains a satisfyingly rich and cheesy dish. Easy peasy and delicious!
• Adding Creative Toppings and Fillings: Unleash your inner chef and personalize your casserole by getting creative with additional savory fillings or vibrant, fresh toppings. Consider incorporating finely diced red or yellow onions for a touch of sweetness and pungency, sweet green bell peppers or colorful red bell peppers for added crunch and nutrients, a fiery kick of sliced jalapeño peppers (for those who truly enjoy a bit of spice), fresh cilantro for a burst of herbaceousness, or even hearty black beans for added texture, fiber, and protein. All these wonderful additions can significantly elevate the flavor profile and make the casserole uniquely yours, perfectly tailored to your family’s preferences.

More Family Favorite Dinner Ideas You’ll Love

• Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage and Peppers
• Creamy Mushroom Chicken
• Baked Feta Pasta
• One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken
• Instant Pot Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

John Wayne Casserole

This easy and hearty casserole is a delicious take on the original John Wayne casserole recipe. Cheesy, melty, and oh-so-satisfying, it’s perfect for any occasion and a guaranteed family favorite.

Rating: 4.67 from 9 votes

Print Recipe | Pin Recipe | Rate This Recipe

Course: Main Dishes | Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 8 servings | Calories: 590 kcal

Author: Dorothy Bigelow

Equipment

• 9 X 13″ baking dish
• Heavy-Bottomed Skillet
• Electric hand mixer

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 package taco seasoning (or 2-3 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
• ⅔ cup water
• 16 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 ounces diced green chilies, undrained
• 4 large eggs, separated
• ⅔ cup heavy cream (or evaporated milk)
• 1 tablespoon flour (*see notes for keto and gluten-free options)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 Roma tomato, sliced thinly

Unit Conversion: US Customary – Metric

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and lightly coat a 9X13” baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
2. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat, then add in the ground beef. Crumble and cook until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning onto the drained ground beef, along with ⅔ cup of water. Stir well to combine, and cook just until a thickened sauce forms.
4. Transfer the ground beef to the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
5. Sprinkle the diced green chilies on top of the ground beef layer, aiming to spread it out as evenly as possible.
6. Combine the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese and place them on top of the ground beef and green chilies. Set aside.
7. Separate the egg whites from the yolks, placing the egg whites in a medium-sized bowl, and the yolks into a separate medium-sized bowl.
8. Add the heavy cream (or evaporated milk), flour, salt, and cayenne pepper to the yolks and whisk well to combine.
9. Use an electric hand mixer to whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
10. Transfer the whipped egg whites to the yolk mixture and fold it in gently until fully combined.
11. Pour the egg mixture on top of the cheese into an even layer, spreading it out using the back of a spoon.
12. Place the tomato slices on top of the egg layer and place the dish in the oven.
13. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the egg layer is set and the cheese layer is fully melted and bubbly.
14. Allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Did you try this recipe? Tag me at @dashfordinner and share your photos!

Notes

• Without ground beef: The original recipe does not call for ground beef or taco seasoning. I added this to give it more of a traditional casserole feel, but you can absolutely leave it out! Just leave out the ground beef, taco seasoning, and water. Instead, increase the shredded cheddar cheese to a full 16 ounces.
• Shredded cheese: For the best results, I recommend using cheese from the block and shredding it by hand. This tastes the best and it melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
• *Low carb, keto, and gluten-free: The recipe as written is very low carb! Just swap out the 1 tablespoon of flour that is used as a thickener for almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend – both have been tested with great results!

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 590kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 48g | Saturated Fat: 26g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 234mg | Sodium: 1106mg | Potassium: 321mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1664IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 667mg | Iron: 3mg

Please note that some of my blog posts here at Dash for Dinner may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. Please see my Disclaimer for more information.