Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2️⃣ Cook the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned.
Drain any excess fat.
Add diced onion, green bell pepper, and garlic.
Cook for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3️⃣ Build the Sloppy Joe Sauce:
Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper.
Simmer the mixture for 5–10 minutes, letting the flavors meld into a rich, sloppy joe sauce.
4️⃣ Assemble the Casserole:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and beef mixture.
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Pour into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
5️⃣ Top It Off:
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the casserole.
Optional: Add crushed crackers or French fried onions for extra texture and crunch.
6️⃣ Bake:
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with melted cheese on top.
7️⃣ Cool & Serve:
Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Scoop, serve, and watch it disappear!
Pro Tips for Casserole Greatness:
- Short on time? Use pre-chopped veggies or a frozen pepper/onion blend.
- Want more kick? Add hot sauce, chili flakes, or a pinch of cayenne.
- Make it ahead: Assemble everything in the morning, refrigerate, then bake at dinnertime.
Why You’ll Love This Sloppy Joe Casserole:
- Family-Friendly Flavors: Sweet, tangy, cheesy—everyone’s on board.
- One-Dish Wonder: Easy cleanup and big reward.
- Total Comfort Food: Like a hug in casserole form.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: ~410
- Protein: ~22g
- Carbs: ~30g
- Fat: ~22g
- Fiber: ~2g
FAQ About Sloppy Joe Casserole:
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 5–10 minutes to the cooking time if cold.
Can I freeze it?
Definitely. Freeze before or after baking in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I make it without pasta?
You can swap pasta for rice, tater tots, or even cooked cauliflower for a low-carb option.
Flavor Twists to Try:
- Tex-Mex Style: Add taco seasoning, corn, and use pepper jack cheese.
- BBQ Version: Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce and top with crispy bacon bits.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
Perfect For:
- Easy weeknight dinners
- Potlucks and family gatherings
- Kid-approved meals
- Budget-friendly cooking
- Leftover makeovers
Cheesy, Saucy, and Seriously Satisfying:
This Sloppy Joe Casserole takes everything you love about the classic sandwich and levels it up with pasta and cheese. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just craving a comfort-filled casserole, this dish checks all the boxes.
Tried it? Tag us—we want to see your saucy, cheesy casserole creation!
