Spread the love

Sloppy Joe Casserole

Sloppy Joe Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together the classic flavor of sloppy Joes in a hearty casserole form. It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to make and loved by both kids and adults. With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Why Make This Recipe

You should make Sloppy Joe Casserole because it’s simple, delicious, and filling. This dish combines ground beef, savory vegetables, and gooey cheese for a satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover pasta! This casserole is easy to customize and can be made in just one hour, making it a quick option for dinner.

How to Make Sloppy Joe Casserole

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 small onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
Salt and black pepper, to taste
3 cups cooked pasta (such as elbow macaroni or penne)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup crushed crackers or French fried onions (optional, for topping)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the sloppy Joe beef mixture. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If desired, sprinkle crushed crackers or French fried onions on top for extra crunch.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Sloppy Joe Casserole

Serve Sloppy Joe Casserole hot from the oven. You can enjoy it on its own, or pair it with a simple side salad for a balanced meal. It’s also great with pickles or coleslaw on the side for an extra crunch.

How to Store Sloppy Joe Casserole

To store leftover Sloppy Joe Casserole, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Sloppy Joe Casserole

Use cooked pasta that you have on hand. This recipe is flexible, and you can use any kind that you like.
For an extra flavor boost, add your favorite spices or herbs, like oregano or paprika.
If you prefer a spicier dish, try adding a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the mixture.

Variation

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by swapping the ground beef with plant-based meat or lentils. Additionally, feel free to switch the cheese for a vegan alternative if you want a dairy-free version.

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian ground meat alternatives.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. What can I substitute for the pasta?
You can use rice, quinoa, or any grain of your choice as a base for this casserole. Just make sure it’s cooked before mixing it in.