If you are craving something hearty, comforting, and packed with bold flavors, this Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe is the perfect answer. It takes the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich you love and transforms it into a cozy, cheesy baked dish that’s both family-friendly and incredibly satisfying. Rich ground beef simmers in a tangy-sweet sauce, mingling with tender bowtie pasta and layers of gooey Velveeta and Colby jack cheese. This one-dish wonder not only fills the belly but also warms the heart, making it an instant favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Let’s dive into this delicious casserole that is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward but flavorful ingredients. Each component has a special role, from the savory beef to the creamy cheese that ties everything together into a luscious casserole.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the veggies to perfection.
- ½ cup diced white onion: Brings a natural sweetness and aroma when cooked down.
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced: Packs a punch of savory depth right at the start.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base that carries all the flavors.
- ½ cup ketchup: Provides that signature tang and slight sweetness essential to a Sloppy Joe.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Balances acidity with a rich molasses note.
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard: Adds a bright, piquant kick.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: A savory, umami boost that elevates the sauce complexity.
- 3½ cups low-sodium chicken broth: For cooking pasta and keeping the casserole moist without overpowering flavors.
- 8 ounces dry bowtie pasta (½ box): Perfect shape for catching all the cheesy saucy goodness.
- 16 ounces Velveeta cheese, cut into small pieces and divided: Melts into a creamy, smooth texture that’s irresistible.
- 8 ounces Colby jack cheese, freshly grated and divided: Adds a mild, mellow cheesiness and a beautifully golden top when baked.
- Freshly chopped green onions or chives: A fresh, green garnish to brighten every bite.
How to Make Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by heating your oven to 375°F. Having your oven ready to go means the last steps of the casserole come together smoothly. While the oven preheats, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside—this dish size is just right for serving 6 hearty portions that everyone will enjoy.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Warm the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook until it’s translucent and soft—this brings out their sweet, mellow flavor, which forms a delicious foundation. Stir in the minced garlic next, cooking just until fragrant to avoid any bitterness.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart as it cooks. Let it brown deeply, as those caramelized edges bring extra richness to this Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe. Cooking it thoroughly ensures every bite is tender and flavorful.
Step 4: Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce
In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this sauce over the browned beef and stir well, letting it simmer for a few minutes. This step allows the flavors to marry into that classic tangy-sweet Sloppy Joe taste you know and love.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta in Broth
After removing the beef mixture, wipe out your pan and bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook it just shy of al dente—the pasta will finish cooking in the oven, soaking up those rich cheesy and beefy flavors.
Step 6: Combine Pasta, Beef, and Cheese
Return the cooked beef to the pan with the drained pasta. Stir in 12 ounces of Velveeta and half of the Colby jack cheese until melted and creamy. This luscious mix is the heart of your casserole, guaranteeing every forkful is rich and comforting.
Step 7: Assemble and Bake
Spoon the cheesy beef and pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Scatter the remaining Velveeta pieces and grated Colby jack cheese over the top to create a gooey, golden crust. Cover with non-stick foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the edges are crispy and beautifully browned.
Step 8: Rest and Garnish
Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time helps everything set beautifully. Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped green onions or chives on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor that balances the richness.
How to Serve Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped green onions or chives are an ideal garnish because they add a gentle onion crunch and a burst of color, making each slice look as vibrant as it tastes. You can also consider a light dash of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast.
Side Dishes
Since this casserole is hearty and rich, pair it with simple, fresh sides like a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to add texture and keep the meal balanced. Coleslaw or roasted vegetables also work beautifully, bringing brightness that cuts through the cheesy indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or ramekins for a cozy, rustic appeal. You can also sprinkle extra cheese and broil just before serving for an irresistible bubbly top. For casual gatherings, offering it family-style straight from the casserole dish invites everyone to dig in warmly together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your Sloppy Joe Casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil, then refrigerate. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for planned meals when time is short but comfort food is needed.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well! Prepare fully, but don’t bake before freezing. Wrap it tightly in plastic and then foil for protection against freezer burn. It can be frozen up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to keep moisture locked in. Bake for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings on medium power, but the oven method helps retain that delicious creamy texture best.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and possibly add a touch more seasoning to keep flavors vibrant.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes, you can swap ground beef with cooked lentils, textured vegetable protein, or your favorite meat substitute. Keep the sauce and cheese the same for that classic Sloppy Joe taste with a vegetarian twist.
What type of cheese can I substitute for Velveeta?
If you don’t have Velveeta, smooth melting cheeses like American cheese, Monterrey Jack, or even a good melting cheddar can work. The key is a cheese that melts evenly to create a creamy texture.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
You sure can! While bowtie pasta is great at holding the sauce, elbow macaroni, rotini, or shells would also complement the flavors nicely. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How spicy is this casserole? Can I add heat?
This recipe is mild and kid-friendly by default, but if you enjoy spice, feel free to add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños. Heat levels can easily be customized to suit your palate.
Final Thoughts
This Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe is such a joyful way to enjoy the spirit of a classic sandwich with a cheesy, comforting twist that feeds a crowd. From the rich flavors to the simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite whenever you crave something warm and satisfying. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to dinner that everyone will beg for again and again.
Print
Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sloppy Joe Casserole recipe transforms classic sloppy joe flavors into a comfort-filled casserole, featuring ground beef simmered in a tangy sauce with ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce, combined with al dente bowtie pasta and creamy Velveeta and Colby jack cheeses. Baked until bubbly and crisp on the edges, it makes for a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup diced white onion
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 pound ground beef
Sloppy Joe Sauce
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Pasta and Broth
- 3½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 ounces dry bowtie pasta (½ box)
Cheeses
- 16 ounces Velveeta cheese, cut into small pieces and divided (1 block)
- 8 ounces Colby jack cheese, freshly grated and divided
Garnish
- Freshly chopped green onions or chives
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and set aside a 9×13-inch baking dish for the casserole.
- Sauté Onions: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced white onion and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pan, crumble it with a spatula, and cook thoroughly until it is well browned, about 7-8 minutes.
- Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the cooked beef and stir well to combine.
- Simmer Meat Sauce: Allow the beef and sauce mixture to simmer for a few minutes so the flavors meld. Then transfer the mixture to a separate bowl and set aside.
- Cook Pasta: Wipe out the pan used for the meat and pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until just under al dente, usually around 7-8 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Meat: Return the beef mixture to the pan with the pasta. Add 12 ounces of the Velveeta cheese and half of the grated Colby jack cheese. Stir continuously until all the cheese melts and the mixture is well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the cheesy meat and pasta mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Scatter the remaining Velveeta cheese pieces and the rest of the grated Colby jack cheese on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with non-stick foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese on top is bubbly and the edges are browned and slightly crisp.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions or chives before serving.
Notes
- Using low-sodium chicken broth helps control the saltiness of the dish, but you can substitute with vegetable broth for a different flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta in the broth as it will continue to cook in the oven during baking.
- Velveeta provides a creamy texture, but you can substitute with other melty cheeses if preferred.
- To add a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when simmering the beef.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
