If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, this Sloppy Joe Crescent Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the classic, tangy-sweet sloppy joe flavors with a flaky crescent roll crust and gooey melted cheddar cheese, this recipe transforms a simple favorite into a delightful casserole that everyone will beg for again and again. It stitches together familiar ingredients in a way that’s truly irresistible, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings when you want hearty, satisfying food without standing over the stove all evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a few simple ingredients is all it takes to create this mouthwatering Sloppy Joe Crescent Bake Recipe. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from building rich layers of flavor to providing a perfect balance of textures and colors that make the dish shine.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that brings savory goodness and satisfying protein.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked down with the beef.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses a fragrant punch that wakes up the savory flavors.
- 1/2 cup ketchup: Brings the classic tangy and sweet sloppy joe flavor.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor for richness and color.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory, umami depth that rounds out the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances acidity with mild sweetness for that perfect sloppy joe taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder: Provides a subtle tang and warmth to enhance the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Elevates all flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick and complexity.
- 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent roll dough: Creates a golden, flaky crust that cradles the filling perfectly.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the filling for creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Keeps the bake from sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness.
How to Make Sloppy Joe Crescent Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F to get it nice and hot for baking. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your Sloppy Joe Crescent Bake Recipe comes out with a perfectly golden crust that won’t stick.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef along with the chopped onions until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 6 to 8 minutes. This step builds the savory foundation for your dish. Be sure to drain any excess grease for a less oily bake.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Flavorings
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to release its aroma. Next, add ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and all the flavors to meld together wonderfully.
Step 4: Assemble the Crescent Bake
Unroll the crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Gently stretch it up the sides to form a crust that will hold all that delicious sloppy joe filling. Spoon the meat mixture evenly over the dough and then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top, setting the stage for that irresistible gooey finish.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake in your preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the crescent roll crust turns a lovely golden brown and the cheese melts into a bubbly, savory blanket. Once out of the oven, allow the bake to cool for around 5 minutes to let everything set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.
How to Serve Sloppy Joe Crescent Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley brings a vibrant green touch that lifts the visual appeal and adds a subtle fresh note. You might also consider a dash of crushed red pepper if you’re feeling adventurous and want to spice things up.
Side Dishes
This Sloppy Joe Crescent Bake Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or tangy coleslaw to add a refreshing crunch and balance. Pickles or sliced cucumbers are also great companions, providing a cool bite that contrasts nicely with the rich bake.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or casual get-togethers, serve this bake in individual ramekins or muffin tins to make Sloppy Joe “cups” that are easy for guests to grab and enjoy. You can also top each serving with a small side of avocado or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sloppy Joe Crescent Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the bake before or after baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to bring back the crispy crust and melty cheese. Alternatively, a quick microwave reheating will work for convenience, though the crust won’t be as crisp.
FAQs
Can I make this Sloppy Joe Crescent Bake Recipe with ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be sure to cook it fully and adjust seasoning to your liking since turkey is milder than beef.
What if I don’t have crescent roll dough?
You can use refrigerated biscuit dough or even pizza dough as alternatives. Each will provide a slightly different texture but will still taste fantastic as the base for the bake.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes! Adding finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even shredded carrots enhances the nutrition and flavor profile without overpowering the classic sloppy joe taste.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely. The familiar flavors, cheesy topping, and easy-to-eat crust make the Sloppy Joe Crescent Bake Recipe a hit with kids and adults alike.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe isn’t spicy by default, but you can easily add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the filling if you and your family enjoy a little heat.
Final Thoughts
Give this Sloppy Joe Crescent Bake Recipe a try the next time you want a comforting, delicious meal that’s quick to prepare and sure to be devoured. It’s like your favorite sloppy joe got a cozy, cheesy makeover that turns weeknight dinners into moments to savor and share. Once you taste it, you’ll find it hard to keep this one just for yourself!
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Sloppy Joe Crescent Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sloppy Joe Crescent Bake is a delicious and easy-to-make family-friendly casserole featuring a savory ground beef sloppy joe mixture baked atop a buttery crescent roll crust, topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines classic sloppy joe flavors with the convenience of crescent dough for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Sloppy Joe Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Assembly
- 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Nonstick cooking spray
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the crescent dough doesn’t stick.
- Cook beef and onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together until the beef is fully browned and the onions are softened, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Add garlic and seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well and let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it slightly thickens.
- Form crescent crust: Unroll the refrigerated crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, stretching it slightly up the sides to form a crust base.
- Assemble the bake: Spoon the prepared sloppy joe mixture evenly over the crescent dough crust. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese uniformly over the sloppy joe layer.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the crescent crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, then serve.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For added nutrition and texture, include chopped bell peppers or mushrooms in the beef mixture.
- Serve this bake with a fresh side salad or pickles to complete your meal.
