Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe

This easy and cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole combines the classic flavors of Sloppy Joes with a hearty pasta bake, making it the perfect weeknight dinner recipe. With ground beef, tender farfalle pasta, Velveeta cheese, and a touch of Manwich sauce, this comforting dish is ideal for busy families and sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground beef (85% lean)
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1 (15.5 oz) can Manwich sauce
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 3/4 pound farfalle pasta (uncooked)
• 8 oz. Velveeta cheese (cubed)
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large, high-walled skillet or pot, cook and crumble the ground beef over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. Add the diced onions and continue cooking for 5 more minutes, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease.
3. Add Liquids and Pasta: Stir in the Manwich sauce, chicken broth, and undrained diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the farfalle pasta, stirring well to combine.
4. Cook the Pasta: Cover the pot and let the mixture simmer gently, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. Cook until the pasta is al dente, adding a few extra minutes to the time indicated on the pasta package. Taste-test a noodle to ensure it’s done.
5. Add Corn and Velveeta: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the corn. Add the Velveeta cheese cubes, then cover the pot to allow the cheese to melt. Once melted, gently stir the mixture to combine.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. Transfer the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
7. Bake: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and serve hot, paired with cornbread if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Quick: This one-pot wonder saves time and minimizes cleanup.
• Comfort Food: A hearty, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners.
• Kid-Friendly: A guaranteed hit with the little ones thanks to the Sloppy Joe flavor and gooey cheese.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit your family’s taste preferences.

Tips

• Cooking Pasta: Stir occasionally while cooking the pasta to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
• Cheese Melting: Allow the Velveeta to melt completely for a smooth and creamy texture.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the mixture in advance, refrigerate it, and bake just before serving.
• Grease-Free: Always drain the grease after cooking the ground beef to avoid an oily casserole.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Cheese Alternatives: Use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend instead of Velveeta.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of chili powder, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes for a kick.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini works well as a substitute.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Absolutely! Allow it to cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Fresh diced tomatoes can be used, but you might need to add extra liquid to compensate.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm cornbread or dinner rolls for a complete meal.
• Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.

Enjoy this hearty and delicious Sloppy Joe Casserole, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!