Easy Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe

Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that the whole family will love? This Easy Sloppy Joe Casserole brings together all the flavors of classic Sloppy Joes with the convenience of a baked casserole. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or potlucks. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires minimal cleanup. Keep reading to discover how to create this delicious and cheesy dish, and don't miss the tips on how to make it even better!

this Recipe

What is a “Sloppy Joe Casserole”?

A Sloppy Joe Casserole is a creative spin on the traditional Sloppy Joe sandwich. Instead of the messy bun filled with the iconic ground beef mixture, this dish combines all the flavors into a baked casserole. The main ingredients include seasoned ground beef, a tangy tomato-based sauce, pasta, and lots of cheese. It's a one-dish meal that’s satisfying, flavorful, and easy to serve, making it a go-to option for families.

Ingredients List for Easy Sloppy Joe Casserole

Before diving into the step-by-step instructions, let's take a look at the ingredients you'll need for this Sloppy Joe Casserole. These components are easy to find, affordable, and will help you create a comforting meal for any occasion.

Essential Ingredients:

1. 1 lb. ground beef – The base of the casserole, providing hearty protein and richness.
2. ½ cup onions, diced – Adds a mild sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
3. 1 15.5 oz. can Manwich sauce – This classic Sloppy Joe sauce delivers that signature tangy, sweet, and savory taste.
4. 2 ½ cups chicken broth – Helps cook the pasta and adds flavor to the dish.
5. 1 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes – Provides texture and a bit of acidity to balance the richness of the sauce.
6. ¾ lb. penne pasta, uncooked – The pasta absorbs all the flavors of the dish, making it hearty and satisfying.
7. 8 oz. Velveeta cheese, cubed – This melty, creamy cheese is key to giving the casserole its gooey texture.
8. 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded – Adds sharpness and a cheesy topping for a perfect finish.

Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to adjust this recipe to suit your dietary needs, preferences, or ingredient availability, here are some great substitutions and variations to consider:

• Ground beef substitute: If you want to lighten up the dish or try something different, you can replace the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative.
• Pasta choice: While penne pasta works well in this recipe, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like rotini, macaroni, or shells, depending on what you have on hand.
• Cheese options: Velveeta gives the dish a creamy texture, but if you prefer a more natural cheese, you can use cream cheese or shredded mozzarella instead. For the topping, feel free to swap cheddar with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Colby cheese.
• Manwich alternative: If you can’t find Manwich sauce, you can create your own by combining ketchup, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar.
• Additional veggies: Sneak in extra nutrition by adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the casserole.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to prepare this mouthwatering Sloppy Joe Casserole. The following step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of making this easy dish.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Before starting the preparation, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly once it’s assembled.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Add the diced onions to the browned beef and sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and translucent. The onions will release their sweetness and mix with the meat to enhance the overall flavor.

Step 4: Add the Manwich Sauce and Diced Tomatoes

Pour in the can of Manwich sauce and the diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors combine and deepen.

Step 5: Incorporate the Chicken Broth

Next, add the chicken broth to the skillet. This liquid will be absorbed by the pasta as the casserole bakes, giving it a rich flavor. Stir to combine.

Step 6: Combine with Uncooked Pasta

Once the liquid is well incorporated, add the uncooked penne pasta to the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly distributed and submerged in the liquid.

Step 7: Mix in the Velveeta Cheese

Now it's time to add the Velveeta cheese cubes. Stir them into the casserole mixture until they start to melt. This step creates a creamy, cheesy base for the dish.

Step 8: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish, then transfer the mixture from the skillet into the dish. Spread it out evenly so the pasta cooks uniformly.

Step 9: Add the Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious, golden cheesy crust as the casserole bakes.

Step 10: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 11: Let it Cool Before Serving

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to cut into portions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe like this, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Not draining the beef: If you skip draining the excess fat from the beef, the casserole could end up too greasy.
2. Overcooking the pasta: Be sure not to pre-cook the pasta. The uncooked pasta will absorb the liquid during baking, resulting in perfectly cooked pasta.
3. Using too little cheese: This dish is meant to be cheesy and indulgent. Don’t skimp on the cheese, especially on top, as it forms a crispy, golden layer that’s irresistible.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To elevate the experience of this Easy Sloppy Joe Casserole, here are some serving and presentation tips:

• Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top of the casserole before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Accompaniments: Serve the casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Portion sizes: Use a sharp knife or spatula to cut the casserole into neat, square portions for easy serving.

How to Serve Easy Sloppy Joe Casserole

This casserole is a hearty, all-in-one meal, so it doesn’t require much in terms of side dishes. However, to round out the meal, consider pairing it with a crunchy side like garlic bread or a light, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

Presentation Ideas for Easy Sloppy Joe Casserole

Presentation doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few easy ideas to make your dish stand out:

• Serve in individual ramekins or bowls for a personal touch.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or chili flakes for a hint of color and spice.
• Layer some fresh, sliced cherry tomatoes on top after baking for added freshness.

Easy Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, then bake it just before serving. This makes it a great option for busy evenings.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
• Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply replace the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure that the Manwich sauce is gluten-free.

Can I use a different cheese instead of Velveeta?

Absolutely. You can swap Velveeta with cream cheese, mozzarella, or even ricotta for a different texture.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it when you're ready to serve. It’s perfect for meal prep!

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, try mixing in some diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce into the casserole.

Conclusion

This Easy Sloppy Joe Casserole recipe is a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its hearty mix of ground beef, tangy sauce, pasta, and gooey cheese, it’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Follow the simple steps above, and don’t be afraid to customize it with your favorite ingredients and flavors. Happy cooking!

Print