Sloppy Joe Casserole

Sloppy Joe Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich. This comforting dish combines ground beef, pasta, and a cheesy topping for a satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have a hearty dinner on the table in no time. Serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal, and enjoy the comforting flavors that everyone will love.

Sloppy Joe Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich. This comforting dish combines ground beef, pasta, and a cheesy topping for a satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Let's gather the ingredients you’ll need to make this tasty casserole.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic.
• ½ cup diced white onion: Adds flavor and aroma to the dish.
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced: Enhances the savory taste.
• 1 pound ground beef: The main protein of the casserole.
• ½ cup ketchup: Adds sweetness and tang to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard: Adds a bit of tanginess.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the depth of flavor.
• 3½ cups low-sodium chicken broth: Used to cook the pasta and add flavor.
• 8 ounces dry bowtie pasta (½ box): Adds heartiness to the casserole.
• 16 ounces Velveeta cheese, cut into small pieces and divided (1 block): Provides a creamy, cheesy texture.
• 8 ounces Colby jack cheese, freshly grated and divided: Adds a melty, cheesy top layer.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and set aside a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 2:

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent.

Step 3:

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute or until it becomes fragrant.

Step 4:

Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef turns a dark brown color and is fully cooked through.

Step 5:

While the beef is cooking, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl. Add this mixture to the cooked beef and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes before spooning it into a bowl and setting aside for later.

Step 6:

Wipe out the pan and pour in the chicken broth. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions.

Step 7:

Return the beef mixture to the pan along with 12 ounces of the Velveeta cheese and half of the Colby jack cheese. Stir as the cheese melts to combine everything together.

Step 8:

Once the cheese has melted fully, spread the mixture out evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 9:

Cut the remaining Velveeta cheese into tiny pieces and sprinkle them over the top of the casserole along with the remaining Colby jack cheese.

Step 10:

Cover the casserole with non-stick foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the edges start to crisp up and turn a dark brown color.

Step 11:

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions or chives, if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve the Sloppy Joe Casserole hot and fresh from the oven for the best flavor and texture.
• Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, place a portion of the casserole in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
• If you prefer, you can reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.

Helpful Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef if you prefer a lighter option.
• For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
• If you don’t have Velveeta cheese, you can use another type of processed cheese or even cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.

Tips from well-known chefs

• Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests using fresh, high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
• Chef Ina Garten recommends grating your own cheese for a creamier melt.
• Chef Jamie Oliver advises letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.