Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe

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Introduction

Sloppy Joe Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that transforms the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich into a hearty, oven-baked meal. Combining savory ground beef, tangy sauce, and a satisfying base, this casserole delivers bold flavor with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Origin and Cultural Significance

The Sloppy Joe has its roots in early 20th-century American home cooking, known for affordability and bold, sweet-savory flavor. As casseroles became popular in mid-century America—celebrated for convenience and crowd-pleasing appeal—the Sloppy Joe naturally evolved into a baked version. Today, Sloppy Joe Casserole reflects comfort food culture: practical, adaptable, and designed to feed a family with warmth and ease.

Ingredients Quantity

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, 85% lean
  • ½ cup onion, finely diced
  • 1 (15.5 oz / 440 g) can Manwich sauce (or similar Sloppy Joe sauce)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini) or 3 cups cooked rice
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika

Optional Additions

  • ½ cup diced bell peppers for sweetness and color
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor
  • ½ cup corn or peas for extra texture
  • Mozzarella or Colby-Jack cheese for a creamier topping

Tips for Success

  • Use lean ground beef to prevent excess grease.
  • Cook pasta or rice just until tender; overcooking can make the casserole mushy.
  • Taste the sauce before baking and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier serving.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Add diced onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in Manwich sauce, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and paprika. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Add cooked pasta or rice and mix until evenly coated.
  6. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  7. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
  8. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  9. Remove from oven and rest briefly before serving.

Description

This Sloppy Joe Casserole is rich, saucy, and deeply satisfying. The savory beef and tangy tomato-based sauce soak into the pasta or rice, while the melted cheese adds a creamy finish. Each bite delivers classic Sloppy Joe flavor with the cozy appeal of a baked casserole.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 380–420 kcal
  • Protein: 22–25 g
  • Fat: 18–20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30–35 g
  • Fiber: 2–3 g

Conclusion

Sloppy Joe Casserole is a versatile comfort dish that brings nostalgic flavor into a simple, shareable format. It’s easy to customize, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to satisfy both kids and adults alike.

Recommendation

Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. It also pairs well with simple dinner rolls or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Enjoy Sloppy Joe Casserole as a wholesome indulgence by choosing lean beef, adding vegetables, and controlling portion sizes. It’s proof that comfort food can be both satisfying and thoughtfully balanced.

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