Sloppy Joe Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that combines the flavors of the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich with a hearty baked casserole. It's easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or potlucks. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, offering the savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors of traditional Sloppy Joes with the added texture of cheese and crusty bread. Read on for the full recipe, along with tips and variations to make your Sloppy Joe Casserole a hit every time!
What is Sloppy Joe Casserole?
Sloppy Joe Casserole is an exciting twist on the traditional Sloppy Joe sandwich, where instead of serving the meat filling on a bun, it's baked into a casserole with layers of bread, cheese, and a delicious, seasoned beef mixture. It's a one-pan meal that's easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. By transforming the sandwich into a casserole, you get a hearty, filling dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers.
Ingredients List for Sloppy Joe Casserole
To make the perfect Sloppy Joe Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef: The heart of the dish, ground beef is seasoned with classic Sloppy Joe spices for rich, savory flavor.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and texture to the beef mixture.
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced: Adds crunch and a mild, peppery flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall flavor with a bit of depth and aroma.
- 1 cup Sloppy Joe sauce (store-bought or homemade): The key ingredient that adds the signature sweet and tangy flavor. You can also use a mix of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar as a substitute.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Helps make the filling extra saucy and hearty.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Provides a deep umami flavor that enhances the savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon): Adds a bit of tanginess to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the beef mixture to perfection.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Provides a melty, cheesy topping.
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuits or crescent rolls: Adds a fluffy, golden top layer for the casserole.
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (optional): To brush over the biscuit or roll topping for extra flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about a Sloppy Joe Casserole is that it’s versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences or to accommodate ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few ideas:
- Ground turkey or chicken: Swap out the ground beef for a leaner option like turkey or chicken to make the dish a little lighter.
- Vegetarian version: Use a meat substitute such as lentils, black beans, or plant-based ground meat to make this dish vegetarian.
- Extra veggies: You can bulk up the dish with additional vegetables like mushrooms, corn, or carrots.
- Spicy version: Add a kick by stirring in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Different cheeses: Swap the cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Sloppy Joe Casserole is simple, even for beginners. Follow these easy steps:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add vegetables: Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add sauces and seasonings: Stir in the Sloppy Joe sauce, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and thicken slightly.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the beef mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Add the biscuit topping: Place the refrigerated biscuit or crescent roll dough on top of the beef and cheese mixture. If you like, brush the tops of the biscuits with melted butter for added flavor and a golden finish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving, as the filling will be very hot.
How to Cook Sloppy Joe Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking a Sloppy Joe Casserole doesn’t have to be a challenge, and with these step-by-step instructions, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Start with the ground beef: The first step is browning the ground beef. This gives the dish its rich, savory base. Make sure to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Add aromatics and veggies: Once your beef is browned, it’s time to add the onions, peppers, and garlic. Cooking them together enhances their flavors and ensures that each bite of the casserole has a nice balance of meat and veggies.
- Build your sauce: The Sloppy Joe sauce, tomato sauce, and other seasonings come next. Letting the mixture simmer allows all the flavors to marry together. Be sure to taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Layering the casserole: Spread the meat mixture into your baking dish and top it with a generous layer of shredded cheese. The cheese acts as a gooey, melty binder that holds the casserole together.
- Top with biscuits: Adding the biscuit or crescent roll dough gives the casserole its final touch. The dough will rise and bake into a golden, fluffy crust that pairs perfectly with the savory filling beneath.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not draining the beef: Make sure to drain any excess fat from the ground beef to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.
- Undercooking the biscuits: Check to make sure the biscuits or crescent rolls are fully baked. If they’re not done, the topping can be doughy.
- Overcooking the beef mixture: Simmering the sauce for too long can dry out the meat, so keep an eye on it to ensure it remains moist and flavorful.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Sloppy Joe Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dish that doesn’t require fancy presentation, but there are a few ways to make it even more appealing:
- Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro adds color and a pop of freshness to the dish.
- Serve with a side salad: Balance out the rich casserole with a crisp side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette.
- Pair with a starchy side: Cornbread, mashed potatoes, or even fries can make a great accompaniment to this casserole.
How to Serve Sloppy Joe Casserole
- Portion control: Use a large serving spoon to scoop out portions of the casserole. Each serving should include a nice helping of the meat mixture and at least one biscuit or roll.
- Serve family-style: Sloppy Joe Casserole is perfect for a family dinner. Serve it directly from the baking dish and let everyone dig in!
Presentation Ideas for Sloppy Joe Casserole
- Color contrast: Adding a garnish like bright green parsley or sliced scallions can give the casserole a little visual appeal.
- Serving dishes: Use colorful or rustic serving dishes to give the meal a homey, comforting feel.
Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make ahead: You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, just add the cheese, biscuits, and bake as directed.
- Double the recipe: This casserole can easily be doubled if you're feeding a larger group.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I freeze Sloppy Joe Casserole?
- Yes! You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just assemble it, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze. When you're ready to cook it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Absolutely! Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for a little extra heat.
- What if I don’t have Sloppy Joe sauce?
- No problem! You can easily make a homemade version by combining ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and a splash of mustard.
Conclusion
Sloppy Joe Casserole is a fantastic dish for busy families, potlucks, or even meal prepping for the week. It's easy to make, customizable, and packed with delicious flavors that everyone will love. Whether you're sticking to the classic recipe or trying out some of the suggested variations, this casserole is sure to become a go-to favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy the satisfying combination of savory beef, tangy sauce, and golden biscuits.
PrintEasy Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe
This easy Sloppy Joe casserole recipe combines flavorful ground beef, melted cheese, and fluffy biscuits for a delicious, family-friendly meal. The perfect one-dish recipe for busy weeknights, it's a comforting and hearty twist on the classic Sloppy Joe with simple ingredients and straightforward instructions. Perfect for dinner or potlucks, this recipe is a go-to option for comfort food lovers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Onion
- Green bell pepper
- Garlic
- Sloppy Joe sauce
- Cheddar cheese
- Refrigerated biscuit dough
- Olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until soft.
- Stir in the Sloppy Joe sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Place biscuit dough on top of the beef mixture.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use store-bought or homemade Sloppy Joe sauce.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture.
- This recipe can be doubled for larger gatherings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (⅙ of casserole)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 920mg
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