Sloppy Joe Casserole

This Sloppy Joe Casserole is the perfect blend of savory, cheesy goodness, and the classic flavors of a sloppy joe in a convenient casserole form. Made with ground beef, onion, and green bell pepper, this easy dinner recipe is topped with a cheesy, baked filling that’s sure to please the whole family. Packed with delicious tomato sauce, ketchup, and cheddar cheese, this casserole is a simple, hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner, a crowd-pleasing dish, or a fun twist on the classic sloppy joe, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Easy to make, filling, and full of flavor!

Ingredients:

For the Meat Mixture:

• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
• 1 large white onion, diced
• 1 large green bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons dry mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• ¾ cup ketchup

For the Filling:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ⅓ cups milk
• 6 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook the Meat Mixture: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add Seasonings and Sauces: Stir in the brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, and garlic salt. Pour in the tomato sauce and ketchup, stirring to combine. Simmer the mixture over low heat while you prepare the filling.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk, melted butter, and eggs, stirring until well combined. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the cooked meat mixture evenly in the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish. Pour the prepared dough mixture over the top, spreading it to cover the meat.
5. Bake: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Tips

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a less greasy casserole. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Cheese Variations: For extra flavor, try using a mix of cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a little heat.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or corn to the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
• Do Not Overmix: When preparing the dough, be sure not to overmix the filling batter to keep it light and fluffy.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the baking powder is also gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and a dairy-free cheese alternative to make this casserole suitable for those with dairy sensitivities.
• Spicy Option: Add a bit of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture to spice things up.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and bake when ready.

Can I freeze Sloppy Joe Casserole? Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Assemble and bake it, then let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in foil and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, bake from frozen or thaw in the fridge and bake as directed.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce? If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a mixture of vinegar and sugar for a similar tangy, sweet flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
• For a family-friendly meal, serve with mashed potatoes or baked fries.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sloppy Joe Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines all the flavors of a classic sloppy joe with a fluffy, cheesy topping. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this casserole is easy to make, satisfying, and packed with flavor. The combination of savory beef, sweet ketchup, and tangy Worcestershire sauce, topped with a cheesy, baked filling, will make this dish a new family favorite. It’s the ultimate comfort food in one easy-to-make casserole!