Sloppy Joe Casserole!!

Sloppy Joes have long held a cherished spot in the heart of American comfort food cuisine, beloved for their saucy, savory richness and unfussy, crowd-pleasing appeal. This Sloppy Joe Casserole recipe takes the classic flavors of this beloved dish and transforms them into a hearty, baked casserole that is both easy to prepare and delightfully satisfying to eat. Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or simply when the craving for something warm and comforting strikes, this dish promises to deliver on flavor and ease, making it a soon-to-be favorite in your culinary repertoire.

By combining lean ground beef with the sweet and tangy elements of onions, green bell peppers, tomato sauce, and a hint of Worcestershire, this casserole builds on the foundational tastes of traditional Sloppy Joes. However, it veers into new territory with a cheesy, baked topping that adds a delightful contrast in textures—from the tender, flavorful meat mixture to the golden, crisp crust that envelopes it. This innovative twist not only enhances the dish’s overall appeal but also introduces a novel way to enjoy a classic.

The genius of this Sloppy Joe Casserole lies not just in its delicious taste but in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re looking to feed a large family, impress guests without stress, or simply switch up your weeknight dinner routine, this recipe stands ready to exceed expectations. Its straightforward preparation and common ingredients make it accessible, while the opportunity to customize it to your liking—be it through added spices, vegetables, or cheese variations—ensures it will be a hit with every palate. Let’s dive into making this comforting, savory casserole that promises to warm the heart as much as it satisfies the appetite.

Ingredients:

For the Sloppy Joe Mixture:

• 1-1/2 pounds lean ground beef: Choose a lean mix for less fat.
• 1 large white onion, diced: Provides sweetness and texture.
• 1 large green bell pepper, diced: Adds a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness and balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and depth of flavor.
• 2 teaspoons dry mustard: Gives a tangy, sharp taste.
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt: For seasoning and a hint of garlic.
• 1 (15 ounces) can tomato sauce: The base for the sloppy joe sauce.
• ¾ cup ketchup: Adds sweetness and tanginess.

For the Casserole Topping:

• 2 cups Gold Medal all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the topping.
• 3 teaspoons baking powder: Leavening agent that helps the topping rise.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the topping.
• 1-1/3 cup milk: Adds moisture and richness.
• 6 tablespoons melted butter: Contributes to the flavor and texture.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together.
• 1-1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a cheesy, gooey layer.

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it’s hot and ready for the casserole.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon.
3. Add Vegetables: Incorporate the diced onion and green bell pepper into the skillet, sautéing until they are tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Season the Mixture: Stir in the brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, and garlic salt, mixing well to evenly distribute the flavors.
5. Combine with Tomato Sauce and Ketchup: Add the tomato sauce and ketchup to the skillet, stirring until the mixture is thoroughly combined. Allow it to simmer on low heat, letting the flavors meld together while you prepare the topping.
6. Prepare the Topping: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix in the milk, melted butter, and eggs until the batter is smooth. Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
7. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the meat mixture to a 13 by 9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Carefully pour and spread the topping over the meat, covering it completely.
8. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is light golden brown and cooked through.
9. Serving: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This will make it easier to cut into portions and serve.

Tips:

• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding chili powder or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble and bake the casserole.

Enjoy your Sloppy Joe Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish is not only satisfying but also brings a fun twist to traditional sloppy joes, making it a meal that both kids and adults will love.