Sloppy Joe Casserole is a hearty and family-friendly dish that takes the beloved flavors of the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich and transforms them into a baked comfort meal. This recipe combines seasoned ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and melty cheese, all layered with pasta or biscuits for a filling casserole. Originating from the popularity of Sloppy Joes in mid-20th century America, this casserole became a creative way to enjoy the same bold flavours in a new, oven-baked form. It’s loved for its simplicity, affordability, and ability to feed a crowd with ease.
Sloppy Joe Casserole:
Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or gatherings, Sloppy Joe Casserole is both satisfying and versatile. You can prepare it ahead, customize with vegetables, or make it extra cheesy for a richer taste. With its balance of sweet, savoury, and cheesy goodness, every bite feels nostalgic yet comforting. This dish not only saves time but also turns a messy sandwich into a warm, baked meal that’s easy to serve and enjoy with the whole family.
History of Sloppy Joe Casserole
The Sloppy Joe sandwich became popular in the United States during the 1930s as an affordable and hearty meal made with ground beef, tomato sauce, and spices. Over time, creative home cooks transformed this messy handheld favorite into a baked casserole. By combining pasta, biscuits, or potatoes with the classic beef mixture, the Sloppy Joe Casserole was born. Today, it is a staple comfort dish served at family dinners, potlucks, and gatherings for its ease and satisfying taste.
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Sloppy Joe Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 3 cups cooked pasta or 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire, and chili powder. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine beef mixture with cooked pasta (or layer over biscuit dough in baking dish).
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.
- Swap pasta with tater tots for a fun variation.
- Add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for variety.
- Leftovers reheat well for quick lunches.
Tips for the Best Sloppy Joe Casserole:
- Season the beef well to enhance flavor.
- Let casserole rest 5 minutes before serving for clean slices.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for easy stovetop-to-oven cooking.
- Add vegetables like corn or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Double the recipe for meal prep or larger gatherings.
FAQ’s for Joe Casserole:
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Sloppy Joe Casserole?
Yes, freeze unbaked or baked portions for up to 2 months.
Q: What can I serve with it?
Pair with salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well.
Q: How do I keep it from drying out?
Cover with foil during baking, then uncover for the last 5 minutes.
Conclusion:
Sloppy Joe Casserole is the perfect twist on a classic American favourite. With its combination of seasoned beef, pasta or biscuits, and cheesy goodness, it transforms a messy sandwich into an easy-to-serve family meal. It’s versatile, comforting, and always a hit at the dinner table.