Name: Easy Sloppy Joe Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup Sloppy Joe sauce; 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni; 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs; Fresh parsley for garnish

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When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? Maybe a gooey cheese pull or the rich aroma of savory beef wafting through your kitchen? Picture this: a cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole bubbling away in the oven, filling your home with delicious smells that can make even the most stubborn family member wander into the kitchen. You can’t resist this dish as it combines all your childhood favorites into one spectacular meal.

Remember those carefree days when you slurped up messy Sloppy Joes at summer picnics? This casserole takes that nostalgic goodness and elevates it into a cozy dinner favorite. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat. Just imagine the smiles as you serve generous helpings of this delightful dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy-to-make Sloppy Joe Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in under an hour
The rich flavors blend perfectly with gooey cheese for a satisfying experience
Serve it up as a main course or a fun party dish; everyone will be begging for seconds
Plus, it’s great for leftovers!

Cooking this masterpiece brings back memories of my family gatherings where laughter and good food were plentiful. One time, my uncle declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” and honestly, I think he might have been right!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for less grease while maintaining flavor.
Onion: Chopped onions add sweetness and depth; sauté until they’re translucent.
Bell Pepper: Choose vibrant colors like red or green for added sweetness and crunch.
Sloppy Joe Sauce: Store-bought works great, but homemade gives an extra kick.
Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for that irresistible gooeyness that stretches just right.
Pasta (Elbow Macaroni): Cooked al dente; this holds up well against the hearty filling.
Breadcrumbs: Topping adds a delightful crunch to each bite; use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Parsley (for garnish): Fresh parsley brightens up the dish visually and flavor-wise; plus, it makes you look fancy!

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

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a large skillet and spray it lightly with cooking oil.

Sauté the Veggies: Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet over medium heat. Sauté until they soften and release their aroma—about 5 minutes should do.

Cook the Beef: Toss in the ground beef next. Stir occasionally until browned—about 7-10 minutes—and drain any excess fat.

Add the Sauce: Pour your favorite Sloppy Joe sauce into the skillet with the cooked beef mixture. Stir well to ensure everything gets saucy and happy.

Combine Pasta and Cheese: In a large bowl, mix your cooked elbow macaroni with half of the cheddar cheese. Then fold in the beef mixture gently—no need to rush here!

Bake Until Golden Brown: Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Serve hot from the oven garnished with fresh parsley; feel free to dig in immediately! Just don’t burn your tongue like I did once—it was worth every crispy-cheesy bite!

Now go ahead and gather everyone around because nothing says “I love you” quite like a big ol’ pan of Sloppy Joe Casserole. Enjoy!

You Must Know

Sloppy Joe Casserole is not just comfort food; it’s a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings
The blend of flavors and textures makes it irresistible, while the ease of preparation means you’ll have more time to enjoy with loved ones
Plus, the smell will have everyone asking for seconds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef with onions, then mix in other ingredients before baking for perfect results.

Add Your Touch

For a twist, try adding bell peppers or swapping ground beef for turkey or lentils for a vegetarian version.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To elevate your Sloppy Joe Casserole, consider using different cheeses like pepper jack or sharp cheddar for extra flavor
Make sure to drain excess grease from the meat for a less oily dish
Lastly, let it cool slightly before serving; it sets up nicely and cuts easier!

Cooking this Sloppy Joe Casserole always brings back memories of family dinners where laughter filled the air and everyone bonded over delicious food.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make Sloppy Joe Casserole ahead of time?

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

What can I serve with Sloppy Joe Casserole?

Consider pairing it with a crisp salad or homemade cornbread for a hearty meal.

Is it possible to freeze Sloppy Joe Casserole?

Yes! It freezes well; just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container.