This Sloppy Joe Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, with layers of savory ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and crispy tater tots, all topped off with gooey melted cheese. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together.
Packed with bold flavors and a satisfying texture, this casserole is guaranteed to please everyone at the table. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory in the beef mixture pairs perfectly with the crispy tots, making it a dish that’s as delicious as it is comforting. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or add a side salad for a balanced meal.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 medium onion, chopped
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1 bell pepper, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
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1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
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1/4 cup ketchup
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1/4 cup yellow mustard
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1 tablespoon brown sugar
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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2 cups tater tots (or frozen hashbrowns)
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1/2 cup sliced green onions (for garnish)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
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Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat and add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
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Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
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In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly. Top with a layer of tater tots, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
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Remove from the oven and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal per serving
Servings: 6 servings
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Families
One of the standout features of this Sloppy Joe Casserole is its simplicity. The entire dish can be made in one pot, which means fewer dishes and less cleanup after dinner. The ingredients are pantry staples, making it a budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for convenience. It’s quick to prepare, and the cooking process is straightforward, allowing you to focus on other tasks while it simmers away on the stove. Plus, the recipe can be made ahead of time, which is a huge time-saver on hectic days.
Moreover, this casserole is versatile. You can easily modify it to suit your family’s tastes. For instance, if you prefer a different kind of pasta, feel free to substitute farfalle with penne or another short pasta. You can also switch out the Velveeta for a different type of cheese or adjust the level of spice according to your preference. This flexibility ensures that you can personalize the dish while still keeping it quick and easy.
One Pot or Casserole Style?
This recipe offers two great ways to serve your Sloppy Joe Casserole: the One Pot Method and the Casserole Method. The One Pot Method is perfect for those looking for a fuss-free meal. Simply cook everything in one pot, top with cheese, and let it melt under the lid. It’s an easy and satisfying way to enjoy this dish without transferring it to a casserole dish. This approach is ideal for those who want to minimize effort and clean-up while still getting a delicious meal on the table.
Alternatively, you can opt for the more traditional casserole style. After preparing the filling, transfer it to a greased casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake. The result is a beautifully baked casserole with golden, bubbly cheese that’s perfect for serving to guests or family gatherings. Both methods yield equally delicious results, so the choice is yours!
Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly
Sloppy Joe Casserole is not only quick to prepare, but it’s also an excellent make-ahead meal. You can assemble the entire casserole, top it with cheese, and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep, ensuring that you have a hearty dinner ready to go when time is tight. When you’re ready to bake, simply allow the casserole to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake it as directed.
If you want to prepare the casserole even further in advance, it also freezes well. Simply prepare the casserole as usual, then freeze it before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight and bake it as instructed. It’s a great solution for stocking up on meals and making sure you always have a comforting dinner on hand.
Nutritional Information
While Sloppy Joe Casserole is a hearty and satisfying meal, it’s also packed with nutrients. The ground beef provides a good source of protein, while the corn adds fiber and vitamins. The Velveeta cheese and shredded cheddar cheese offer a rich, creamy texture and a boost of calcium. While this dish is indulgent and comforting, it also includes some healthy ingredients, making it a well-rounded option for a family meal.
Of course, like any casserole, Sloppy Joe Casserole is best enjoyed in moderation. One serving contains about 663 calories, with 30 grams of fat and 38 grams of protein. If you’re looking to reduce the calorie count or make the dish lighter, consider using lean ground turkey or ground chicken instead of beef, or opt for a lower-fat cheese option.
Tips for Success
To make sure your Sloppy Joe Casserole turns out perfectly, here are a few helpful tips:
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Don’t overcook the pasta: When boiling the farfalle pasta, keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. The pasta should be al dente when you add it to the pot, as it will continue to cook slightly while simmering with the sauce. If it’s too soft, it may become mushy during the baking process.
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Add more cheese: If you love cheesy casseroles, feel free to add extra shredded cheese on top before baking. This will give you an even gooier, melty texture.
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Customize the toppings: You can make this casserole your own by adding toppings such as chopped green onions, sour cream, or even hot sauce for an extra kick.
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Choose your pasta wisely: While farfalle works perfectly in this recipe, you can easily swap it out for penne or rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you use.
Why You’ll Love Sloppy Joe Casserole
Sloppy Joe Casserole combines the best elements of comfort food into one dish that’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a dish to serve at a family gathering, this casserole is sure to satisfy. The cheesy, savory filling with tender noodles and crispy, golden cheese on top is a combination that’s hard to beat.
What makes this casserole even better is that it’s adaptable to your preferences. You can easily adjust the flavors, add your favorite vegetables, or switch up the cheeses to make it exactly how you like. This versatility ensures that it will be enjoyed by everyone at the table, whether they’re picky eaters or food enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Sloppy Joe Casserole is a hearty, delicious dish that is perfect for busy families, meal prepping, and casual gatherings. With its rich flavors, cheesy texture, and comforting ingredients, it’s a meal that everyone will love. Whether you choose the One Pot Method or the traditional casserole style, you’ll end up with a filling, satisfying dish that will have your family coming back for seconds. With its make-ahead and freezer-friendly options, this casserole is not only easy to prepare but also a time-saver for busy weeks. So, grab your ingredients and try making this Sloppy Joe Casserole today—you won’t regret it!