This Sloppy Joe Casserole is a warm, tasty dish that’s a hit with everyone! It combines ground beef, sauce, and cheesy goodness all baked together in one convenient dish.
I love how easy it is to make—just mix, pour, and bake! Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting without too much fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The base of the casserole. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, use lentils or crumbled tempeh.
Tomato Sauce or Ketchup: This provides the signature flavor. If you’re out of ketchup, a mix of tomato paste with water can work. Homemade BBQ sauce also adds a nice twist!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for that extra flavor. You could mix it up with Monterey Jack or even use vegan cheese for a plant-based option!
Eggs: Eggs help bind the casserole. If you’re looking for a vegan option, flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) can be a great substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Doesn’t Turn Out Soggy?
A common concern with casseroles is excess moisture. Here are a few tips to keep it perfect:
- Cook the ground beef and onions until well browned to release moisture.
- Allow the meat mixture to cool slightly before layering. This helps prevent steam buildup.
- Don’t skip the simmering step with the tomato sauce; it thickens and reduces moisture.
- After baking, let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set up a bit more.
With these tips and ingredient insights, you’re set to make a delicious Sloppy Joe Casserole! Enjoy your cooking experience!
How to Make Sloppy Joe Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup tomato sauce or ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This Sloppy Joe Casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes from start to finish before serving a delicious, hearty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease a baking dish or skillet with butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Beef and Onion:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook them together until the meat is browned and the onion has softened, which should take about 5-7 minutes. After cooking, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato sauce (or ketchup), Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until it’s well combined and slightly thickened.
4. Layer the Casserole:
Pour the flavorful meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the meat layer. Pour the egg mixture evenly on top, and then finish by sprinkling the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
5. Bake:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the casserole in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
6. Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for about 5 minutes. This helps it set a bit more, making it easier to serve. If you like, you can garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a splash of color. Enjoy your hearty and cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole with a side salad or your favorite veggies!
Enjoy your delicious creation!
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Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this dish. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll still enjoy that classic Sloppy Joe flavor!
What If I Don’t Have Worcestershire Sauce?
If you’re out of Worcestershire sauce, you can use soy sauce as a substitution. You can also mix a little vinegar with soy sauce to mimic the tangy flavor of Worcestershire.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step ahead of time. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Sloppy Joe Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or bake it in the oven until heated through.