Sloppy Joe Casserole

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 | Difficulty: Easy | Calories per Serving: ~450 kcal

A hearty, comforting twist on the classic Sloppy Joe, this casserole is packed with savory ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and melted cheese, all baked over a layer of buttery cornbread. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks!

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Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce

• ½ cup (120ml) ketchup

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp yellow mustard

• 1 tsp chili powder

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Cornbread Topping:

• 1 box (8.5 oz / 240g) cornbread mix (like Jiffy)

• 1 large egg

• ⅓ cup (80ml) milk

• ½ cup (60g) shredded cheddar cheese

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh chopped parsley or green onions

• Extra shredded cheese

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Lightly grease a 9×9-inch (or similar) baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Sloppy Joe Filling

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.

2. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Prepare the Cornbread Topping

• In a bowl, mix cornbread mix, egg, milk, and shredded cheese until just combined (do not overmix).

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly in the baking dish.

2. Pour the cornbread batter on top, spreading gently to cover the filling.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

• Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

• Garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

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Tips & Variations

✅ Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
✅ Vegetarian Option: Swap beef for lentils or plant-based crumbles.
✅ Extra Cheesy: Mix cheese into the filling AND sprinkle more on top before baking.
✅ Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

✔️ Easy & Family-Friendly – Kids and adults love it!
✔️ One-Dish Wonder – Less cleanup, more flavor.
✔️ Customizable – Adjust sweetness, spice, or toppings to your taste.

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Final Thoughts

This Sloppy Joe Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup—sweet, savory, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping, it’s a guaranteed hit!

Enjoy your meal! 😊🍽️