Sloppy Joe casserole is a delightful and hearty dish that takes the beloved flavors of the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich and transforms them into a comforting casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or potlucks, this casserole is easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that combines savory beef, tangy sauce, and melty cheese with pasta for a meal that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound elbow macaroni or penne pasta
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine with Pasta: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the pasta and beef mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top. If using, sprinkle the crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs over the cheese for an extra crunchy topping.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Conclusion
This Sloppy Joe casserole is a fun and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of Sloppy Joes in a new form. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd and makes great leftovers. Serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
2. Can I freeze Sloppy Joe casserole?
Absolutely! After assembling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
3. What can I serve with Sloppy Joe casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of sides such as a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of coleslaw for a classic combination.
4. Can I use a different type of meat?
Certainly! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute can be used as a substitute for ground beef. Just make sure to cook and crumble the meat before adding it to the casserole.
5. How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add more heat, you can include red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce in the beef mixture. Using a spicy tomato sauce can also increase the heat level.
6. Can I add other ingredients to this casserole?
Yes, this recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add ingredients like diced tomatoes, corn, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Sloppy Joe casserole with your friends and family! 🍝🧀
Feel free to ask if you need more recipes or have any other questions!