Easy Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe

This cozy dish—Sloppy Joe Casserole—promises to wrap you in warmth like a favorite blanket on a chilly night. Imagine the aroma of seasoned ground beef mingling with sweet onions and tangy tomato sauce wafting through your kitchen. It’s like a hug from your grandma but without the slightly awkward back-patting.

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Whenever I whip up this casserole, it takes me back to those chaotic weeknights when my parents juggled work and four hungry kids. This dish was our family’s superhero; it rescued us from hunger faster than you could say “Dinner’s ready!” Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe handy for those busy nights.

I still remember the first time I made this casserole; my friends devoured it faster than I could say “seconds!” They raved about how comforting and delicious it was!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best here; just make sure to drain excess fat after cooking.
• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; chop finely for even cooking.
• Bell Pepper: Use any color bell pepper you like; it adds crunch and vibrant color.
• Tomato Sauce: Opt for rich tomato sauce; it’s the heart of the flavor profile.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A splash adds umami goodness that makes everything taste better.
• Brown Sugar: Just a bit balances out the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese on top creates a gooey, melty finish that everyone loves.
• Cornbread Mix: This is your secret weapon for an easy topping that bakes up golden brown.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Meat Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Add chopped onions and bell peppers until softened and fragrant.

Add Flavorful Ingredients: Stir in tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar until well combined. Allow it to simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld those flavors together.

Prepare Your Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks during baking.

Add Meat Mixture to Dish: Spread the flavorful meat mixture evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. It should look inviting and delicious already!

Create Cornbread Topping: In a bowl, prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions; spoon it over the meat mixture evenly. No need for perfection here; rustic is charming!

Bake Away! : Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top. The delightful smell will drive you wild while waiting!

Now just let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving because nobody wants molten cheese burns on their tongue while trying to impress family or friends.

Enjoy every cheesy bite of this Sloppy Joe Casserole that doubles as comfort food and conversation starter!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet, then stir in onions and bell peppers for extra flavor. Once softened, mix in tomato sauce and seasonings before layering with cornbread batter.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or plant-based meat alternatives. Add shredded cheese on top or toss in diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring it maintains its deliciousness.

My first attempt at making Sloppy Joe Casserole was a disaster—my kids were horrified by my “creative” ingredient choices but loved it once I found the right balance.

FAQ

What can I substitute for ground beef in Sloppy Joe Casserole?

Try using ground turkey or lentils as a healthier alternative.

Can I prepare Sloppy Joe Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it earlier and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

How do I make my Sloppy Joe Casserole spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce before baking for extra heat.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Sloppy Joe Casserole

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• Author: Emma Taylor
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Delicious Sloppy Joe Casserole is a quick and hearty dinner option, blending seasoned ground beef, vibrant veggies, and a golden cornbread topping for a family-friendly meal everyone will love.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 box cornbread mix (plus ingredients as per package)

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Add chopped onion and bell pepper; sauté until softened.
2. Stir in tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Spread the meat mixture evenly in the prepared dish. Prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions and spoon it over the beef mixture.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole (approx. 200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 740mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 50mg