Sloppy Joe Casserole

This Sloppy Joe Casserole is my favorite way to turn the classic messy sandwich into a hearty, family-friendly baked dish. It’s comforting, cheesy, and packed with that signature sweet and tangy Sloppy Joe flavor—all baked together with tender pasta for an easy weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings all the nostalgic flavors of a traditional Sloppy Joe into a one-pan meal that’s simple to make and perfect for leftovers. The combination of ground beef, peppers, and onions simmered in a rich tomato sauce tastes amazing with pasta and melted cheddar cheese. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy enough for a busy night but satisfying enough for a weekend comfort meal.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
8 ounces pasta (elbow macaroni or similar), cooked and drained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil over medium heat. I add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
3. I add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened.
4. I stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
5. I add the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper. I stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors blend.
6. In a large bowl, I combine the cooked pasta with the Sloppy Joe mixture, stirring until the pasta is fully coated.
7. I transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
8. I bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. I let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6 people. The total time is about 40 minutes, including 10 minutes of prep, 20 minutes of cooking, and 10 minutes of baking.

Variations

Sometimes I add a handful of corn or diced jalapeños for extra flavor and texture. For a lighter version, I use ground turkey instead of beef or whole wheat pasta for added fiber. I also like topping the casserole with crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs for a little crunch.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm a portion in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or bake the whole dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. This casserole also freezes well for up to 2 months—I just thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, I often use penne, rotini, or shells—any short pasta works great in this casserole.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Definitely. I prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Then I bake it just before serving.

How do I make it spicier?

I add a dash of hot sauce, chili powder, or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses all melt beautifully in this dish.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Zucchini, mushrooms, or corn make great additions for extra flavor and nutrition.

What can I serve with Sloppy Joe Casserole?

I like serving it with a green salad, coleslaw, or garlic bread to round out the meal.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, I skip the cheese or use a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, I simply double all the ingredients and use a larger baking dish—it’s perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

I make sure not to overbake it, and if I reheat leftovers, I sometimes add a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes wonderfully. I wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and reheat it straight from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until hot.

Conclusion

I love how this Sloppy Joe Casserole transforms a classic sandwich into an easy, baked comfort food that’s full of flavor. The combination of tangy sauce, savory beef, and gooey cheese baked with pasta makes every bite hearty and satisfying. It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing meal that always hits the spot—perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week.

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