Sloppy Joe Casserole

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Sloppy Joe Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish that blends nostalgia and convenience in the most delicious way. Imagine the savory, slightly sweet flavors of a classic Sloppy Joe, transformed into a cheesy, bubbly baked casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or pleasing your picky eaters. This dish layers hearty ground beef, tangy sauce, and a golden biscuit topping for a weeknight winner that never fails.

Whether you’re looking for an easy potluck contribution, a back-to-school dinner idea, or just something satisfying after a long day, this casserole has your back. It’s quick to throw together with pantry staples and flexible enough to add your own twist. Serve it fresh from the oven and watch it disappear in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Sloppy Joe Casserole

This dish brings all the nostalgia of those childhood Sloppy Joe sandwiches but skips the mess. The casserole format means every bite is evenly sauced, perfectly cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. It’s also super freezer-friendly, budget-friendly, and picky-eater approved.

Plus, with a prep time under 30 minutes, it fits beautifully into any busy weeknight without sacrificing flavor.

Can I Use Store-Bought Sloppy Joe Sauce?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time or prefer the classic canned flavor, go for it. Store-bought sauce works great here. But if you’re up for a quick DIY version with ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire, and spices, you can easily customize the flavor to your liking. Either way, you’ll get that familiar tangy-sweet profile that makes Sloppy Joes so craveable.

Ingredients for the Sloppy Joe Casserole

This casserole thrives on a balance of savory, sweet, and cheesy. You likely have most of the ingredients already waiting in your kitchen.

• Ground beef
• Yellow onion
• Garlic
• Green bell pepper
• Tomato sauce
• Ketchup
• Worcestershire sauce
• Brown sugar
• Salt and pepper
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Refrigerated biscuit dough

Each ingredient layers in flavor: the ground beef brings hearty depth, while onion and garlic build aromatics. Bell pepper adds crunch and color, and the ketchup, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire create that rich, slightly sweet Sloppy Joe base. Brown sugar enhances the sweet-savory balance. Cheddar cheese delivers gooey richness, and biscuit dough adds a golden, buttery topping.

How To Make the Sloppy Joe Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Stir in chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until the veggies are soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Add tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened slightly.

Step 4: Layer and Cheese It

Transfer the meat mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Top with Biscuits

Place biscuit dough pieces on top of the cheese. They can be whole or cut into quarters for better coverage and easier serving.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.

How to Serve and Store Sloppy Joe Casserole

Sloppy Joe Casserole is best served warm straight from the oven when the cheese is melted and the biscuits are perfectly golden. It easily feeds 6 to 8 people depending on portion size and sides. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven or microwave. It also freezes well for up to 2 months — just thaw overnight before reheating.

What to Serve With Sloppy Joe Casserole?

A Crisp Garden Salad

Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette help balance the richness of the casserole.

Creamy Coleslaw

The tangy crunch of coleslaw adds refreshing contrast.

Roasted Green Beans

Simple and wholesome, these veggies bring color and a touch of earthiness.

Macaroni Salad

Great for feeding a crowd, and its creamy tanginess pairs well with Sloppy Joes.

Pickles or Pickled Veggies

That vinegar pop helps cut through the savory richness of the dish.

Sweet Corn

Whether grilled, roasted, or creamed, corn is a cozy match for Sloppy Joe flavors.

Baked Sweet Potatoes

Adds a naturally sweet element that complements the casserole beautifully.

Potato Wedges or Fries

You can never go wrong with crispy potatoes on the side.

Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving this casserole, here are some other cozy and satisfying meals to try next:

• Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini for a pasta-meets-taco night fusion.
• Cajun Potato Soup if you’re in the mood for something creamy and comforting.
• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli for a one-pan dinner that’s always a win.
• Loaded Cheddar Ranch Rotini Bake when you want bold flavor in every bite.
• Mexican Sopa de Conchas for a nostalgic, kid-friendly dinner that’s easy on the budget.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra cheese? Toss in jalapeños? Maybe swap biscuits for cornbread?

I love hearing your creative takes. Questions are welcome too — let’s make dinner a community thing.

Explore more family-favorite casseroles and quick meals on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Sloppy Joe Casserole turns a classic sandwich into a bubbly, golden, cheesy meal you can bake and share. It’s everything you love about Sloppy Joes in casserole form — fast, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep this easy dinner recipe on regular rotation.

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