Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sloppy Joe Casserole takes the messy, flavorful sandwich filling of sloppy joes and turns it into a warm, cheesy casserole. The ground beef is cooked in a savory sauce that’s perfectly balanced with sweet and tangy flavors, then topped with a cheesy, golden layer of baked goodness. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s quick to prepare, filling, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your tastes, making it a versatile meal for any night of the week.

Ingredients

For the casserole:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a little heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini works best)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)

For the topping:

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
2 tablespoons butter, melted

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the ground beef mixture: In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
Add the vegetables: To the skillet with the ground beef, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Make the sloppy joe sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, and chili powder (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the beef mixture, stirring to combine. Once everything is well mixed, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add the cheese: Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, making sure it’s evenly spread.
Make the breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter, stirring to coat the breadcrumbs evenly. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer for an extra crunchy topping.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Serve: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out portions and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the casserole.
Vegetarian Sloppy Joe Casserole: Use lentils, beans, or a plant-based ground meat substitute to make this casserole vegetarian.
Add Veggies: You can add extra veggies like corn, peas, or mushrooms to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole: For extra cheesy goodness, add a layer of cheese between the pasta and the sloppy joe filling, or sprinkle more cheese on top.
Spicy Sloppy Joe Casserole: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Sloppy Joe Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply cook as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.

Can I freeze Sloppy Joe Casserole?

Yes! You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. To freeze, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual, or bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer. Penne, rotini, or shells work well, but you can use spaghetti or any pasta shape you like. Just make sure to cook it al dente.

What other cheese can I use?

You can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that cheddar gives it that signature rich, tangy taste.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

Add chili flakes, diced jalapeños, or a bit of hot sauce to the beef mixture to give it a spicy kick. You can adjust the level of heat to your preference.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this casserole in a smaller dish?

Yes, you can make the casserole in a smaller baking dish. If using a smaller dish, make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as it may take less time to bake.

Can I make Sloppy Joe Casserole without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can leave out the breadcrumbs if you prefer. For a different topping, try using crushed crackers, crumbled tortilla chips, or even more cheese for a cheesy crust.

Conclusion

Sloppy Joe Casserole is the perfect comfort food that combines the classic flavors of sloppy joes with the heartiness of a baked casserole. With its savory beef, tangy sauce, cheesy top, and crunchy breadcrumbs, it’s a meal that everyone will love. It’s also incredibly versatile—add your favorite veggies, swap in different proteins, or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or preparing it for meal prep, this Sloppy Joe Casserole is guaranteed to be a hit!