Ultimate Sloppy Joe Casserole – Easy, Cheesy & Family-Friendly!
Looking for the best Sloppy Joe Casserole recipe? This easy, cheesy, and family-friendly dish combines savory ground beef, tangy Sloppy Joe sauce, and melty cheddar cheese baked to perfection. Whether you choose elbow macaroni, tater tots, or toasted buns, this homemade comfort food classic is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, this one-pan dinner is guaranteed to become a go-to favorite. Try this delicious Sloppy Joe bake tonight
ready in under 30 minutes!
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Ingredients
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2 lbs Ground Beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor)
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1 small Onion, finely diced
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2 teaspoons Garlic Powder
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1 teaspoon Onion Powder
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1 teaspoon Black Pepper
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2 teaspoons Salt (or to taste)
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2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
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2 teaspoons Yellow Mustard
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2 teaspoons Paprika (optional for depth)
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1 can (15 oz) Tomato Sauce
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1 cup Beef Broth (for moisture and flavor)
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2 teaspoons Apple Cider Vinegar (balances the flavors)
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2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Choose Your Base:
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For buns: 6 Hamburger Buns, cubed, lightly buttered, and toasted
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For Tater Tots: 1 ½ bags (48 oz total) frozen tater tots, spread in a single layer
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For macaroni: 12 oz elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
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Make Your Own Seasonings
How To Make
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Prepare the Ground Beef:
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onions until the beef is fully browned.
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Drain any excess grease to prevent the casserole from being too oily.
Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce:
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Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and paprika.
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Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, then add the apple cider vinegar to enhance the flavor.
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Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
Prepare the Base:
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For a toasted bun base, lightly butter and toast the cubed hamburger buns, then place them evenly in the greased baking dish.
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If using tater tots, arrange them in a single layer at the bottom of the dish. -
For a pasta-based version, mix the cooked elbow macaroni directly into the Sloppy Joe mixture before layering it in the dish.
Assemble the Casserole:
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Evenly spread the prepared Sloppy Joe mixture over the chosen base.
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top to ensure a rich, cheesy layer.
Bake the Casserole:
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Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy:
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Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy this hearty, comforting Sloppy Joe Casserole while it's warm.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing Leftovers
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Allow the Sloppy Joe Casserole to cool completely before storing.
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Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
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For longer storage, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
Oven:
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If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Microwave:
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For quick reheating, place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warmth.
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Enjoy your delicious Sloppy Joe Casserole anytime!
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Serving Suggestions & Variations
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Sloppy Joe Casserole:
Pair this hearty and cheesy casserole with simple, complementary sides to balance the flavors.
Some great options include:
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Garlic Bread or Texas Toast – Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
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Coleslaw – A crisp, tangy contrast to the rich, savory flavors.
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Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
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Classic French Fries or Potato Wedges – A diner-style favorite.
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Garden Salad – A fresh, light side to complement the casserole.
Delicious Variations
This Sloppy Joe Casserole is incredibly versatile! Try these variations
BBQ Sloppy Joe Casserole:
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Replace Worcestershire sauce with ¼ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky-sweet flavor.
Spicy Sloppy Joe Casserole: -
Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or mix in diced jalapeños for some heat.
Philly Cheesesteak Style: -
Swap the cheddar cheese for provolone and add sautéed green peppers and mushrooms.
Chili Cheese Sloppy Joe Casserole: -
Stir in a can of drained black beans and top with a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Bacon Lover’s Version: -
Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over the cheese before baking.
This dish is already a comfort food classic, but these variations can make it even more exciting!
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Have you tried this Sloppy Joe Casserole? Let us know your favorite way to reheat it or any tasty add-ins you love!