Savory Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe

Introducing the mouthwatering and convenient Sloppy Joe Casserole! This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights, offering all the comforting flavors of traditional sloppy joes in a hearty casserole form. Say goodbye to the days of messy buns and soggy sandwiches, and say hello to a flavorful one-dish meal that the whole family will love.

I stumbled upon this Sloppy Joe Casserole idea one evening while pondering what more I could do with a can of Manwich. The result was a delicious fusion of pasta, savory sauce, and gooey cheese that has since become a family favorite. With the pasta cooked directly in the sauce, every bite is infused with incredible depth and richness, making this dish a standout in the realm of comfort food classics.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd at a gathering or looking for a make-ahead meal for busy days, this Sloppy Joe Casserole is a versatile and satisfying option. The addition of sweet corn adds a delightful twist to balance the tangy Manwich sauce, while the blend of Velveeta and sharp cheddar cheeses creates a creamy base and a golden, irresistible crust. Get ready to savor the aroma of this casserole as it bakes to perfection, promising a meal that brings joy and comfort to the table every time.

Quick Benefits

• Practical one-dish meal solution for busy weeknights
• Scalable for feeding crowds at gatherings or potlucks
• Corn addition balances flavors and adds texture interest
• Make-ahead friendly for meal prep or busy families

Why You’ll Love This Savory Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe Recipe

• Convenience: This recipe solves the common dilemma of wanting comfort food without the hassle of making individual sloppy joes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the familiar flavors and creamy texture of this casserole, making it a hit with the whole family.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd, this casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer, offering convenience and flexibility.
• Flavorful and Unique: The combination of Manwich sauce, pasta, cheeses, and corn creates a deliciously tangy, sweet, and creamy casserole with layers of flavor in every bite.
• Scalable: Whether you’re cooking for a small family or a large gathering, this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to feed a crowd, making it a versatile option for different occasions.
• Cheesy Goodness: The mix of Velveeta for creaminess and sharp cheddar for a golden crust takes this casserole to the next level, providing a visually appealing and flavorful finish.
• Perfect Pairings: Serve this casserole with warm cornbread, a simple green salad, and pickles for a well-rounded meal that balances out the richness of the dish, elevating the dining experience.

Ingredients for Savory Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe

Main Ingredients

• ¾ lb farfalle pasta, uncooked
• ½ cup yellow onion, diced
• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)

Sauce & Liquids

• 1 can Manwich sauce (15.5 oz)
• 1 can diced tomatoes with juice (14.5 oz)
• 2½ cups chicken broth

Cheese & Vegetables

• 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels

How to Make Savory Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef for about 2 minutes. Add diced onions and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess grease.

Step 3: Add the Sauce Base

Add the Manwich sauce, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes with their juices to the pot. Do not discard the tomato juice.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then add the uncooked farfalle pasta. Cover and simmer until pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally. Taste a noodle to check for doneness.

Step 5: Add Corn and Cheese

Reduce heat to low and stir in frozen corn. Add cubed Velveeta cheese, cover, and let sit until melted. Stir gently until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Transfer and Top

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish and generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 7: Bake and Serve

Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes until bubbly and heated through. Optionally, remove the foil for the final minutes for extra golden cheese. Serve hot with warm cornbread.

Storage Tips

After making the sloppy joe casserole, store any leftovers properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. You can refrigerate the cooked casserole in an airtight container for up to four days. When reheating, individual portions can be microwaved for a quick meal, or you can reheat the entire dish covered in a 350-degree oven until warmed through. The flavors of the casserole actually intensify over time, making it a dish that tastes even better as leftovers. For grab-and-go lunches, portion the casserole into individual containers, making it easy to heat up quickly in the microwave.

Another storage option is to freeze the sloppy joe casserole before baking for up to three months. Thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator before following the make-ahead baking instructions. This method allows you to have a convenient and delicious meal ready when you need it. Whether stored in the refrigerator for short-term enjoyment or frozen for future meals, the sloppy joe casserole maintains its comforting flavors and creamy texture, making it a versatile and practical dish for busy families or meal prep situations.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter option, you can swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. These leaner meats will still provide a delicious base for the casserole while reducing the overall fat content. Additionally, if you prefer a vegetarian version, consider using plant-based ground meat alternatives or a medley of diced vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms to create a flavorful and hearty dish.

If you’re looking to make the dish more wholesome, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta instead of traditional farfalle. This swap will add fiber and nutrients to the casserole without compromising on taste or texture. Moreover, for a lactose-free or dairy-free option, you can substitute the Velveeta and cheddar cheeses with dairy-free alternatives such as vegan cheese or a homemade cashew cream sauce for a creamy and cheesy topping that suits your dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your sloppy joe casserole presentation, consider serving it in individual ramekins for a charming and personalized touch. Sprinkle a little extra sharp cheddar cheese on top before baking to create a beautiful golden crust that guests will love. Pair each serving with a mini cornbread muffin on the side to add a delightful texture contrast to the creamy casserole. Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

For a fun and interactive serving idea, set up a DIY sloppy joe casserole bar for your next gathering. Provide separate bowls of toppings like crispy bacon bits, sliced green onions, diced avocado, and pickled jalapeños for guests to customize their own casserole creations. Serve the casserole base in a large baking dish and let everyone add their favorite toppings before digging in. Accompany the bar with warm cornbread slices and a variety of side salads for a complete and satisfying meal experience.

FAQs for Savory Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef in this sloppy joe casserole recipe. Just keep in mind that ground turkey is leaner than ground beef, so you may want to add a bit of olive oil when browning the turkey to prevent it from drying out.

Can I use a different type of pasta besides farfalle?

While farfalle pasta works well in this recipe, you can certainly use a different type of pasta if you prefer. Shapes like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni would also work well in this sloppy joe casserole.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this sloppy joe casserole by omitting the ground beef and using a plant-based protein substitute or adding extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it completely vegetarian.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in this dish?

If you prefer a spicier sloppy joe casserole, you can add additional red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the dish. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder version, you can reduce or omit the red pepper flakes and use a mild salsa or tomato sauce instead of the Manwich sauce.

Conclusion

I hope this Sloppy Joe Casserole becomes a staple in your family dinner rotation, just like it has in mine. The convenience, delicious flavors, and make-ahead options make it a winner for busy weeknights or special gatherings. It’s a dish that truly embodies the essence of comfort food, bringing everyone together around the table with smiles and satisfied appetites.

As you take your first bite of this creamy, cheesy, and savory casserole, remember the joy that comes with sharing a meal made with love and care. Embrace the simplicity and heartiness of this Sloppy Joe Casserole, knowing that each bite is a reminder of the warmth and togetherness that good food can bring. So gather your loved ones, savor every mouthful, and create lasting memories around this delectable dish. Happy cooking, and enjoy your Sloppy Joe Casserole feast!

Savory Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe

Satisfy your craving for comforting sloppy joes with a crowd-pleasing casserole twist, featuring pasta, a cheesy topping, and a secret touch of sweetness from corn.

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Prep Time5 Minutes

Cook Time45 Minutes

Total Time50 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings6 Servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• ¾ lb farfalle pasta, uncooked
• ½ cup yellow onion, diced
• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)

Sauce & Liquids

• 1 can Manwich sauce (15.5 oz)
• 1 can diced tomatoes with juice (14.5 oz)
• 2½ cups chicken broth

Cheese & Vegetables

• 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels

Instructions

1. Prep and Preheat: Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Brown the Beef: In a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef for about 2 minutes. Add diced onions and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess grease.
3. Add the Sauce Base: Add the Manwich sauce, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes with their juices to the pot. Do not discard the tomato juice.
4. Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then add the uncooked farfalle pasta. Cover and simmer until pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally. Taste a noodle to check for doneness.
5. Add Corn and Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in frozen corn. Add cubed Velveeta cheese, cover, and let sit until melted. Stir gently until smooth and creamy.
6. Transfer and Top: Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish and generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
7. Bake and Serve: Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes until bubbly and heated through. Optionally, remove the foil for the final minutes for extra golden cheese. Serve hot with warm cornbread.