Description
A hearty and comforting Sloppy Joe Casserole featuring ground beef, tender pasta, and a cheesy tomato sauce baked to bubbly perfection. This easy weeknight dinner combines classic sloppy joe flavors with a cheesy pasta bake for a family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni or rotini pasta
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente, about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef and Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, diced onion, and green bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until beef is browned and veggies are softened, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Sauce Ingredients: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then add tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend flavors.
- Combine with Pasta and Cheese: Remove skillet from heat. Stir in cooked pasta and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and mozzarella (if using) evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Notes
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Add diced pickles or jalapeños into the meat mixture for a tangy or spicy twist.
- This casserole freezes well: cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing.
