Sloppy Joe Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of a Sloppy Joe with a cheesy mac and cheese base. This hearty meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family. It’s easy to whip up, and the layered flavors will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Sloppy Joe Casserole

This Sloppy Joe Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s an easy Sloppy Joe Casserole recipe that doesn’t take much time to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Second, the creamy cheesy layers and seasoned ground beef create a delightful fusion of flavors that everyone will love. Third, it’s a kid-friendly Sloppy Joe recipe that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Fourth, the dish is versatile; you can serve it with various sides or toppings. Fifth, it’s a comfort food casserole that warms the soul. Lastly, it’s a quick Sloppy Joe casserole meal that can be ready in under an hour, perfect for when you need something hearty!

Ingredients for Sloppy Joe Casserole

Gather these items:

8 ounces elbow macaroni
1 pound lean ground beef
14 ounces diced tomatoes
6 ounces tomato paste
3 Tablespoons light brown sugar
1 Tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 Tablespoons butter
1/2 cup diced yellow onion
2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon dry ground mustard
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 cups shredded Cheddar Cheese, divided

How to Make Sloppy Joe Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cook elbow macaroni noodles according to package directions. Drain in a strainer and set pasta aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain the grease.
Step 3: Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, paprika, cumin, garlic salt, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet with cooked ground beef. Heat on low for about 10 minutes.
Step 4: In the same pot from the pasta, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 2 minutes until tender. Whisk in flour, dry mustard, salt, and pepper. Cook for one minute.
Step 5: Slowly add heavy whipping cream while whisking. Add Worcestershire sauce.
Step 6: Cook cream sauce for several minutes until boiling and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and add 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese. Stir in cooked pasta.
Step 7: Pour pasta into the bottom of a 9-inch baking dish. Pour meat mixture over the top of the mac and cheese. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
Step 8: Cover with foil and bake in a preheated 375 degree oven for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Sloppy Joe Casserole

Keep these in mind:

This dish is great for leftovers; simply reheat in the oven.
Adjust spices to your taste for a more personalized flavor.
Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this ground beef casserole.
For an extra cheesy experience, add more cheese on top before baking.

Hearty Sloppy Joe Casserole for Comforting Dinner - Sloppy Joe Casserole - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Sloppy Joe Casserole

Consider these serving ideas:

Serve with a side salad for a fresh contrast to the rich casserole.
Pair with cornbread for a delightful Southern twist; you can even try a Sloppy Joe casserole with cornbread topping.
Top with sliced jalapeños or pickles for an added kick.

How to Store and Reheat Sloppy Joe Casserole

For storage, let the casserole cool, then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it back in the oven until heated through. This is a perfect meal prep dish as it can be made in advance and enjoyed throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Sloppy Joe Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Sloppy Joe Casserole?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors; the sweet, tangy sauce complements the creamy cheese and hearty beef perfectly. Using quality ingredients enhances the overall taste.

Can I make Sloppy Joe Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve for a quick and satisfying meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sloppy Joe Casserole?

Ensure you don’t overcook the beef to avoid a dry texture. Also, watch the baking time to keep the cheese from burning, allowing it to melt beautifully instead!

Variations of Sloppy Joe Casserole You Can Try

Here are some fun twists to consider:

For a Sloppy Joe casserole with tater tots, top the casserole with crispy tater tots before baking for a fun crunch.
Try a Cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole by adding different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a flavor explosion.
Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version that still packs a punch.

Hearty Sloppy Joe Casserole for Comforting Dinner - Sloppy Joe Casserole - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Muffins or Loaded Chicken Nachos Feast. If you’re looking for dessert ideas, our Molten Lava Chocolate Cake Recipe is a must-try!

For more information on the health benefits of ground beef, you can visit Healthline.