Delicious Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe for the Whole Family

Sloppy Joe Casserole is a delightful dish that fuses the comforting flavors of the classic sandwich into a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal. Imagine the aroma of sautéed onions and peppers wafting through your kitchen, harmonizing with the savory notes of ground beef and tangy tomato sauce. This dish is not just a feast for the senses; it’s a warm hug from your oven, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings.

As I reminisce about my childhood, I can’t help but think of those chaotic weeknights when the clock seemed to mock my attempts at cooking. The Sloppy Joe was my saving grace—quick, easy, and so undeniably delicious. This casserole brings all of that nostalgia flooding back, but with a creative twist. It’s like inviting your favorite childhood meal to a party, where everyone leaves satisfied and smiling.

Ingredients for Sloppy Joe Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Sloppy Joe Casserole:

1 (16 ounce) package penne pasta – Choose whole grain or gluten-free versions if preferred for a healthier meal.

1 tablespoon olive oil – Use for sautéing the meat and vegetables to enhance flavor and keep them moist.

1½ pounds ground beef – Opt for lean ground beef for a dish that won’t be too greasy but still bursting with flavor.

1 medium yellow onion, chopped – A staple ingredient that adds sweetness and depth to the dish.

1 small red bell pepper, chopped and 1 small green bell pepper, chopped – Both peppers bring vibrant color and a hint of sweetness; feel free to mix and match!

1 tablespoon paprika – This spice adds a smoky flavor that elevates the dish’s overall taste profile.

2 teaspoons garlic powder – For a robust aroma and taste that pairs beautifully with the meat.

2 teaspoons kosher salt – Essential for enhancing flavors throughout the dish.

2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce – The base of our casserole, providing tanginess and moisture.

½ cup ketchup – A classic touch that adds a sweet twist to the sauce.

2 tablespoons yellow mustard – A surprising ingredient that infuses the dish with zing.

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Brings a complex, savory flavor that rounds out the sauce.

2 tablespoons light brown sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the acidity.

2 cups frozen yellow corn kernels – A pop of sweetness and color, plus it sneaks in some veggies.

1 ½ cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese, divided – A melty, creamy layer that holds everything together beautifully.

Cooking spray – For greasing your baking dish to ensure nothing sticks.

How to Make Sloppy Joe Casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Sloppy Joe Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when it’s time to bake the casserole. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your penne pasta and cook according to package directions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Ground Beef
In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook while stirring until it is no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Break it up with a spatula during cooking for even browning.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Stir in the chopped onion, both bell peppers, paprika, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Cook this mixture, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 4 minutes. Your kitchen should now smell irresistible!

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
Add the tomato sauce, ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar to the meat and vegetable mixture. Stir well and bring this concoction to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens (about 5 minutes).

Step 6: Combine Everything
Remove the sauce from heat. Stir in the cooked pasta, frozen corn, and 3/4 cup of the shredded Colby-Jack cheese. Ensure everything is mixed evenly, which is crucial for the perfect flavor balance.

Step 7: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the beef and pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish. Top it off with the remaining 3/4 cup of cheese, evenly spreading it over the casserole. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake until everything is heated through and the cheese is wonderfully melted, about 20 minutes.

To serve, scoop out generous portions, and perhaps add a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Your family will thank you for this flavor explosion known as Sloppy Joe Casserole, making it a dish that turns any everyday dinner into a special occasion!

This showstopping Sloppy Joe Casserole delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Sloppy Joe Casserole Cooking Process

To achieve optimal results with this Sloppy Joe Casserole, start by boiling the pasta while you sauté the ground beef with veggies. Mixing everything together at the right time ensures that every bite is packed with delicious flavors.

Add Your Touch to Sloppy Joe Casserole

Feel free to customize your Sloppy Joe Casserole by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, adding diced jalapeños for heat, or swapping out the cheese for your favorite variety to elevate the dish even further.

Storing & Reheating Sloppy Joe Casserole

To store leftover Sloppy Joe Casserole, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water for moisture.

Cooking this Sloppy Joe Casserole always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter and good food flowed. My cousin claimed it was the best he ever had, making it a staple for our potlucks.

FAQs About Sloppy Joe Casserole

What is Sloppy Joe Casserole?

Sloppy Joe Casserole is a delicious, comfort food dish that combines the classic flavors of Sloppy Joes with pasta, cheese, and veggies. This one-pot meal features tender penne pasta mixed with ground beef, bell peppers, and a tangy tomato-based sauce, all topped with melted cheese. It’s an easy and satisfying dish to prepare, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The delightful combination of flavors and textures creates a hearty meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

How do you customize Sloppy Joe Casserole?

The beauty of Sloppy Joe Casserole lies in its versatility. You can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner protein. Adding chopped jalapeños or hot sauce can give it an extra kick if you like things spicy. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to create a unique flavor profile. Additionally, incorporating various vegetables like mushrooms or spinach can enhance its nutritional value and flavor.

Can I make Sloppy Joe Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Sloppy Joe Casserole is an excellent dish for meal prepping. You can prepare it a day or two in advance. Simply follow the recipe, but instead of baking it right away, cover the assembled casserole and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, pop it in the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge. This makes it a convenient solution for busy weeknights.

How long can I store leftovers of Sloppy Joe Casserole?

Leftover Sloppy Joe Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing portions for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave. Just add a splash of water to keep it moist during reheating.

Conclusion for Sloppy Joe Casserole

In summary, Sloppy Joe Casserole is an easy-to-make dish that brings comfort and joy to the dining table. Its blend of pastas, meats, and creamy cheeses makes it not only delicious but also a family favorite. By personalizing it with your choice of proteins and spices, you can create a unique version every time. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Sloppy Joe Casserole is guaranteed to impress and satisfy. Don’t miss out on this delightful dish!

Delicious Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe for the Whole Family

This Sloppy Joe Casserole is a comforting dish combining pasta, ground beef, and cheese for a family-friendly dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner Recipes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 711

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Pasta and Meat

• 1 16 ounce penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1.5 pounds ground beef

Vegetables and Seasonings

• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1 small red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

Sauces and Sweeteners

• 2 15-ounce cans tomato sauce
• 0.5 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar

Cheese and Corn

• 2 cups frozen yellow corn kernels
• 1.5 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese, divided

Cooking Essentials

• 1 spray cooking spray

Equipment

• large pot
• Dutch oven
• 9x13 inch baking dish

Method

 

Cooking Steps

1. Gather ingredients and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add pasta and cook according to package directions for al dente. Drain.
3. While pasta cooks, heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high. Add beef and cook, stirring often to crumble, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in onion, bell peppers, paprika, garlic powder, and salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened, about 4 minutes.
5. Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire, and brown sugar; bring to a boil over medium-high. Reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
6. Remove from heat, stir in cooked pasta, corn, and 3/4 cup of the cheese.
7. Coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray; transfer beef and pasta mixture into the dish. Sprinkle evenly with remaining 3/4 cup cheese.
8. Bake in preheated oven until heated through and cheese is melted, about 20 minutes.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 711kcalCarbohydrates: 47gProtein: 33gFat: 59gSaturated Fat: 23gTrans Fat: 2gCholesterol: 100mg

Notes

Customize with different proteins or cheese to suit your taste.

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