Everyone loves this sloppy joe casserole because they can dig in and enjoy this all-in-one meal! I love to make casseroles for that very reason, it’s all baked in one dish and makes everyone happy. Casseroles are the easiest way to serve dinner for a hungry family! If you’re looking for more casserole recipes to try, this chicken casserole is one of our favorites! We also love this rigatoni recipe and this incredible casserole for breakfast!
What is Sloppy Joe Casserole?
Imagine a sloppy joe getting a makeover with the addition of pasta baked into a hearty and tasty casserole. A traditional sloppy joe recipe is filled with ground beef and smothered in a sweet tomato-based sauce. Sandwiched between hamburger buns, the sloppy jo mixture is known for its sloppy and messy outcome.
This is the perfect casserole to make for your family or to feed a crowd. The flavors are so delicious and everyone will love the brown sugar that adds sweetness to the meaty sauce mixture. And the best part is that is a lot less messy than real sloppy joe sandwiches! I have a mean sloppy joe recipe if this recipe inspires me to make real ones! Or if you’re wanting more sandwich recipes make these Cuban sandwiches or this easy French dip recipe.
Ingredients Needed
This sloppy joe casserole starts with an easy meat mixture that comes together in about 20 minutes with ingredients right in your pantry. Pop it in the oven and dinner is ready in one pan! Follow the recipe card below for the exact measurements!
Olive oil: For sauteing the onions. Onion: Onions add so much flavor. Ground beef: Use lean ground beef for less fat. Garlic: Mince the garlic finely. Ketchup: Adds the tangy sauce. Brown sugar: Adds a bit of sweetness and caramelization. Chili powder: Brings the heat to balance the sweetness. Paprika: Adds a kick of flavor that can be a bit hot. Worcestershire sauce: The perfect savory umami flavor Salt and pepper: Season to taste! Penne Pasta: We like penne pasta in this recipe, but use any pasta you would like. Colby Jack Cheese: I love the flavor of Colby Jack in this recipe, but cheddar also works great.
Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe
Quick and easy this is a great dish for a busy weekday! Sloppy joes are irresistible and all ages love them, but this casserole is our new favorite way of enjoying sloppy joe flavors. The directions are very easy to follow, and I know you’re going to love this!
Pasta: Pick your pasta! This recipe uses penne, but any other kind of pasta would work. I’ve also used rigatoni, rotini, or small shells. Try to choose thicker and shorter pasta that holds its shape. Noodles like spaghetti or egg won’t hold their shape and they tend to get mushy. Cheese: Play around with your cheese. Cheddar cheese or smoked gouda would be delicious, but you could also use a combination of cheese. Definitely stick to cheddar flavors because white cheeses aren’t as common in this recipe. Add Bell Peppers: I LOVE to sneak in veggies because it adds more nutrition to the casserole. I like to saute green bell peppers with the onions, but you can add any sweet bell pepper. They are all delicious! Make it Spicy: Add more paprika or cayenne pepper to the sauce if you like a little kick. I love spice so much that I like to sprinkle red pepper flakes or Tabasco on my serving of casserole. Try it, it’s SO good!
In the Refrigerator: Place the cooled casserole into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To Reheat: Remove the leftovers from the refrigerator and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Cook for about 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Add more cheese on top before warming if you would like!
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