Sloppy Joe Casserole

Introduction: Sloppy Joe Casserole combines the beloved flavors of a classic Sloppy Joe sandwich into a warm and hearty casserole. With a rich, savory ground beef filling, tender noodles, and melted cheese on top, this dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Whether you’re craving comfort food or just looking for a quick and easy meal, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. It’s a fun and satisfying way to enjoy the familiar Sloppy Joe taste in a different form!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 package (12 oz) egg noodles, cooked and drained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors combine.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the beef mixture. Stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with a generous layer of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
7. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for garnish before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips:

• Serving: Serve the Sloppy Joe Casserole hot, either as a main dish or with a side salad and crusty bread. It pairs well with steamed vegetables or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
• Freezing: This casserole also freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes to an hour, or until heated through.

Variations:

1. Vegetarian Sloppy Joe Casserole: Replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. Use vegetable broth and skip the Worcestershire sauce (or use a vegan version).
2. Spicy Sloppy Joe Casserole: Add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra kick. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top before baking.
3. Make it gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free pasta for the egg noodles and ensure the condiments (like ketchup) are gluten-free.
4. Cheese lovers: Add extra layers of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, for a richer flavor.

FAQ:

1. Can I make Sloppy Joe Casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover it and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just increase the baking time by 10–15 minutes if it’s chilled.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While egg noodles work best, you can use other short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells.
3. What can I serve with Sloppy Joe Casserole? This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it goes well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or even some garlic bread.
4. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the casserole after baking or before baking. Just let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven until warmed through.
5. How can I make this recipe dairy-free? To make this casserole dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and substitute olive oil or a dairy-free margarine for butter.