why make this recipe
Sloppy Joe Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of Sloppy Joes with the heartiness of a casserole. It’s a family favorite because it’s easy to make, filling, and can feed a crowd. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty and satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen.
how to make Sloppy Joe Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or 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 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 cups cooked pasta
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup crushed crackers or fried onions (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat and drain excess fat.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire, mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer briefly.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture and 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Transfer to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with the remaining cheese and optional cracker or onion topping.
- Bake until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
how to serve Sloppy Joe Casserole
Serve this casserole warm, right out of the oven. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side salad or bread. For an extra touch, you can add pickles or a dollop of sour cream on top for added flavor.
how to store Sloppy Joe Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze this dish for longer storage. Just cover it tightly and it will last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
tips to make Sloppy Joe Casserole
- Use lean ground beef or turkey to reduce grease and calories.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or mushrooms to increase nutrition.
- For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
- Make sure to fully cook the pasta before adding it to the mixture to prevent it from becoming mushy.
variation
You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by using lentils or a meat substitute instead of ground beef or turkey. Also, experimenting with different types of cheese, like pepper jack or mozzarella, can give you a unique flavor.
FAQs
Can I make Sloppy Joe Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving.
What can I serve with Sloppy Joe Casserole?
This dish goes well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, you can place individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat and drain excess fat.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire, mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer briefly.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture and 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Transfer to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with the remaining cheese and optional cracker or onion topping.
- Bake until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving.