Name: Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (16-ounce) package penne pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1½ pounds ground beef; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 1 small red bell pepper, chopped; 1 small green bell pepper, chopped; 1 tablespoon paprika; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce; ½ cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons yellow mustard; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 2 tablespoons light brown sugar; 2 cups frozen yellow corn kernels; 1½ cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese, divided; cooking spray

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sloppy Joe Casserole is incredibly easy to make and perfect for a family meal. The combination of pasta, ground beef, and the savory, sweet sloppy joe sauce creates a dish that’s both filling and flavorful. Plus, it’s topped with melty cheese, making each bite absolutely irresistible. You can make it ahead of time, store leftovers, and even freeze it for future meals, making it a versatile choice for busy days.

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce) package penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1½ pounds ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 small red bell pepper, chopped
1 small green bell pepper, chopped
1 tablespoon paprika
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
½ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
2 cups frozen yellow corn kernels
1½ cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese, divided
cooking spray

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add pasta and cook according to package directions for al dente. Drain.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, stirring often, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the chopped onion, bell peppers, paprika, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 4 minutes.
Add the tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the cooked pasta, frozen corn, and ¾ cup of shredded cheese.
Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Transfer the beef and pasta mixture into the prepared dish and top with the remaining ¾ cup of shredded cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Vegetarian Version: Use a plant-based ground meat substitute and skip the Worcestershire sauce if you want to keep it vegetarian.
Spicy: Add jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Different Cheese: Try using cheddar cheese, mozzarella, or a mix of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before freezing in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil.
Reheating: To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this casserole?

Yes! You can substitute penne with any other pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Simply assemble it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, preheat the oven and bake as directed.

3. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add some heat, try adding diced jalapeños, a bit of chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

4. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Once cooked, allow it to cool completely, then freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw and bake as directed.

5. What can I serve with Sloppy Joe Casserole?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

6. Is it okay to use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great alternative for a lighter version of this casserole.

7. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend will all work well.

8. How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftover Sloppy Joe casserole will last in the fridge for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.

9. Can I make this recipe without the corn?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of corn or don’t have any, you can leave it out or substitute it with another vegetable like peas or carrots.

10. How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is ready when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the dish is heated through, which should take about 20 minutes in the oven.

Conclusion

Sloppy Joe Casserole is the perfect combination of comfort food and convenience. This easy-to-make dish is sure to please your family, whether you’re serving it for dinner or taking it to a potluck. With hearty ingredients, a delicious sauce, and plenty of cheese, this casserole will quickly become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.