Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe

This hearty and flavorful Sloppy Joe Casserole combines ground beef, tangy Manwich sauce, pasta, and gooey cheese into a comforting one-dish meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground beef (85% lean)
• 1/2 cup onions, diced
• 1 (15.5 oz.) can Manwich sauce
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz.) can diced tomatoes (not drained)
• 3/4 pound farfalle pasta, uncooked
• 8 oz. Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup corn (frozen or drained from a can)
• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large, high-walled skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat for 2 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the diced onions and continue cooking for 5 minutes, or until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease.
3. Add the Manwich sauce, chicken broth, and undrained diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the uncooked farfalle pasta and stir to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
5. Cover the skillet and cook over a gentle boil until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a few extra minutes to the cooking time indicated on the pasta box and taste-test a noodle before proceeding.
6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the corn. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese, cover the pot, and let the cheese melt. Once melted, stir gently to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly and top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the cover and serve hot, paired with cornbread for a complete meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Prepares the filling in one pot, making cleanup easy.
• Kid-Friendly: The familiar flavors of Sloppy Joe sauce and melty cheese are a hit with kids.
• Comfort Food Classic: A hearty, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for cozy family dinners.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences.

Tips

• Use a skillet or pot with a lid to ensure even cooking.
• Stir the pasta frequently while boiling to prevent sticking.
• Taste the pasta to ensure it’s cooked to your desired texture before transferring it to the casserole dish.
• For added flavor, sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika into the meat mixture.

Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative.
• Cheese Choices: Replace Velveeta with cream cheese or shredded mozzarella for a different texture.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrients.
• Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.

FAQs

• Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
• Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, penne or rotini works well as substitutes for farfalle.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with homemade cornbread or dinner rolls for a complete meal.
• Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color.

This Sloppy Joe Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual dinner, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.