Explore the Comfort of Sloppy Joe Casserole
Enjoy the classic taste of sloppy joes in a new and exciting way with this easy-to-make casserole. It's perfect for a family dinner or when you need a filling dish to bring to a potluck.
This dish combines the beloved flavors of a traditional sloppy joe with the hearty comfort of a baked pasta, creating a meal that's both satisfying and delicious. Ready to wow your family or guests with a twist on a classic? Let's get into the kitchen and start cooking!
Family Favorite: Sloppy Joe Meets Pasta Bake
This Sloppy Joe Casserole not only packs the familiar and loved flavors of sloppy joes but also incorporates the comforting texture of baked pasta topped with melted cheese. It's an all-in-one dish that promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Here’s your guide to whipping up this delightful casserole, including some tips to make it even more special.
Key Tips for the Perfect Casserole:
- Brown the Meat Well: Ensure the ground beef is thoroughly browned for the best flavor.
- Drain the Fat: Remove excess fat to keep the dish from being too greasy.
- Let the Flavors Meld: Simmer the sloppy joe mix to deepen the flavors before baking.
- Cheese Matters: Use a good quality cheddar for the best melt and taste.
- Don't Overcook the Pasta: Cook it al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.
Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Equipment: Large skillet, baking dish
This recipe brings the heartwarming flavors of sloppy joes right into your casserole dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ¼ 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:
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Meat and Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, chopped onion, and bell pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened.
- Add Flavors: Drain excess fat, then stir in garlic, tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and mustard. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Combine with Pasta: In the prepared baking dish, mix the cooked pasta with the sloppy joe mixture. Ensure the pasta is well coated.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the robust, tangy, and sweet flavors that make this dish a standout.
Ready to Serve!
This Sloppy Joe Casserole is a fantastic way to enjoy all the flavors you love in sloppy joes, combined with the comforting texture of baked pasta and cheese. It's a filling dish that's bound to become a new favorite at your family table.
