I love making this Sloppy Joe Casserole because it delivers rich, comforting flavors in a simple baked dish. I get a savory meat sauce mixed with tender pasta and topped with melted cheese, all baked together until warm and satisfying. It is one of those meals I enjoy preparing when I want something filling and familiar.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it is easy to make and perfect for a hearty dinner. I can prepare everything in one skillet and one baking dish, which keeps cleanup simple. I also enjoy how well it feeds a group and how flexible it is when I want to adjust flavors or ingredients.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups sloppy joe sauce
1 cup tomato sauce
8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni or similar pasta
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Directions
I begin by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C). I cook the pasta in salted water until just al dente, then drain it and set it aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, I cook the ground beef until browned. I add the diced onion and green bell pepper and cook until softened. I stir in the minced garlic and cook for about one minute. I drain any excess grease.
I add the sloppy joe sauce and tomato sauce, then season with salt and black pepper. I let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors blend well.
I stir the cooked pasta into the meat mixture until everything is evenly combined. I transfer it to a greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly. I sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
I bake the casserole uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. I let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings And Timing
I usually get 6 servings from this recipe. The total time is about 45 minutes, including 15 minutes of preparation and around 30 minutes of cooking and baking.
Variations
I like using ground turkey or chicken when I want a lighter version. Sometimes I add corn or diced tomatoes for extra texture. When I want a little heat, I stir in crushed red pepper flakes or use a spicy sauce. I also enjoy changing the cheese to mozzarella or a shredded cheese blend.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through. I add a small splash of sauce if it seems dry.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
I often assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze this casserole?
I freeze it after baking and cooling completely. I wrap it well, and it keeps for up to 2 months.
What type of pasta works best?
I prefer short pasta like elbow macaroni or rotini because it holds the sauce nicely.
Can I reduce the cheese?
I sometimes use less cheese or leave it off entirely, though I like the creamy finish it adds.
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
I make sure there is enough sauce in the mixture and avoid overbaking it.
Conclusion
I enjoy this Sloppy Joe Casserole because it is comforting, easy to prepare, and always satisfying. It is a reliable dish I like to make for family dinners or whenever I want a warm, hearty meal.
This Sloppy Joe Casserole combines the savory flavor of classic sloppy joes with tender pasta and melted cheese for a hearty, baked dish that’s perfect for family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups sloppy joe sauce
1 cup tomato sauce
8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni or similar pasta
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish.
Cook pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add diced onion and bell pepper; cook until softened.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Drain excess grease.
Add sloppy joe sauce, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Stir cooked pasta into the meat mixture until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add corn or diced tomatoes for extra texture.
Swap cheddar for mozzarella or a cheese blend.
To prevent drying, don’t overbake and ensure sauce is ample.
Make ahead and refrigerate before baking for convenience.
