Introduction

This Easy Sloppy Joe Casserole is the perfect weeknight dinner solution, ready in just 30 minutes! It combines all the classic, savory flavors of sloppy joes with the comforting ease of a baked casserole. If you enjoy quick ground beef meals, you might also like the Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef Melt – Ready in 30 Minutes or the Ultimate Sloppy Joe Mac and Cheese Wraps Ready in 30 Minutes.

Ingredients

This Sloppy Joe Casserole delivers the classic sweet and savory flavors you love, with a golden biscuit topping that bakes up fluffy and cheesy.

• 1.5 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
• 3/4 cup ketchup
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	30 minutes
Total Time	45 minutes

Context: This Sloppy Joe Casserole is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it a great weeknight option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures even cooking and a nicely browned top for your Sloppy Joe Casserole.

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2 — Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes.

Drain any excess grease to keep your casserole from becoming overly oily.

Step 3 — Create the Sloppy Joe Mixture

Add 1 can of Sloppy Joe sauce, ½ cup ketchup, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce to the browned meat. Stir to combine thoroughly.

Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes fragrant.

Step 4 — Layer the Casserole Base

Spread the Sloppy Joe meat mixture evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish.

For extra flavor, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the meat layer before adding the topping.

Step 5 — Prepare the Biscuit Topping

Open 1 can of refrigerated biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Arrange them in a single layer over the meat mixture.

For even browning, lightly brush the biscuits with melted butter or an egg wash.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the biscuits are golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the biscuit topping—it should come out clean when fully cooked.

Step 7 — Rest and Serve

Let the Sloppy Joe Casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes for cleaner portions.

Serve warm with your favorite sides. The casserole holds its heat well, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Nutritional Information

Calories	385
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	16g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	780mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Ground turkey or chicken — Leaner protein option that maintains the classic texture while reducing fat content.
• Lentils or black beans — Plant-based protein alternatives that add fiber and create a hearty, satisfying texture.
• Cauliflower rice base — Lower-carb alternative to traditional pasta or bread that absorbs the Sloppy Joe flavors beautifully.
• Zucchini noodles (zoodles) — Fresh, low-carb vegetable base that adds nutrients and lightness to your casserole.
• Dairy-free cheese — Perfect for lactose intolerance while still providing that melty, comforting topping.
• Gluten-free pasta or breadcrumbs — Maintains texture and structure for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Low-sodium tomato sauce and broth — Controls salt intake without sacrificing the rich tomato flavor profile.
• Sweet potato topping — Nutrient-dense alternative to traditional toppings that adds natural sweetness and vitamins.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this Sloppy Joe Casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal.
• Serve with classic sides like coleslaw or corn on the cob for a casual family dinner.
• Perfect for potlucks and game day gatherings where hearty comfort food is always a hit.
• Top individual servings with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives.
• For a complete comfort meal, add a side of garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls.
• This casserole is ideal for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying, all-in-one dish.

This Sloppy Joe Casserole is wonderfully versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes and occasions, making it a reliable favorite for any home cook.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using lean ground beef that lacks flavor and moisture. Fix: Opt for 80/20 ground beef to ensure your Sloppy Joe Casserole stays juicy and rich.
• Mistake: Overcooking the pasta until it turns mushy during baking. Fix: Cook pasta al dente so it holds texture when mixed and baked.
• Mistake: Skipping the step of draining excess grease from the beef. Fix: Drain after browning to prevent a greasy, heavy casserole.
• Mistake: Not seasoning the meat mixture enough before assembling. Fix: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices in the Sloppy Joe base.
• Mistake: Using a watery Sloppy Joe sauce that thins the casserole. Fix: Simmer the sauce to thicken it slightly before combining ingredients.
• Mistake: Overloading with cheese on top, causing uneven melting or burning. Fix: Spread cheese evenly and consider mixing some into the layers.
• Mistake: Baking in a shallow dish that leads to dried-out edges. Fix: Use a deep casserole dish to promote even cooking and moisture retention.
• Mistake: Skipping a final broil for a golden, bubbly top. Fix: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for perfect browning and texture.
• Mistake: Serving immediately without letting it rest. Fix: Allow the Sloppy Joe Casserole to set for 5–10 minutes for cleaner slices.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Sloppy Joe Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until it reaches 165°F internally.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Sloppy Joe Casserole reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F when reheating.

Conclusion

This Sloppy Joe Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. If you enjoyed this recipe, try our Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe or Easy Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes Recipe next. Let us know how it turned out in the comments, and subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make this Sloppy Joe Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble this Sloppy Joe Casserole a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it, then bake as directed when ready to serve. This makes it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.

What can I use instead of ground beef in this recipe?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. The flavorful sauce in this Sloppy Joe Casserole works well with various proteins, so feel free to use your favorite.

How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftover Sloppy Joe Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven until warmed through.