Are you ready to dive into a hearty and flavorful dish that will have your family asking for seconds? Say hello to Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich! This delightful casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience—a warm hug in a dish! Combining the classic taste of Sloppy Joe with the simplicity of a casserole, it’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights. Did you know that Sloppy Joes date back to the 1930s? The charm of this dish lies in its versatility and ease, making it a fantastic option for families craving comfort food. If you love our Cheesy Taco Skillet, you’ll adore this one too! Get ready to enjoy a family dinner that’s as simple to prepare as it is delicious!
What is Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich?
So, what exactly is Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich? Well, it’s the ultimate mash-up of classic Sloppy Joes and a hearty casserole! The name might make you chuckle—who knew a messy sandwich could turn into a tidy casserole? It’s like they took the lovable Sloppy Joe, dressed it up, and invited it to a dinner party! Fun fact: the saying “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” couldn’t ring truer here. Who wouldn’t fall for a dish that’s rich, savory, and, let’s face it, just plain fun to eat? Grab your apron and get ready to whip up something special!
Why You’ll Love This Sloppy Joe Casserole
There are a million reasons to love this fantastic dish, but let’s narrow it down to three key highlights. First, the main attraction is its delicious blend of flavors—tender ground beef, zesty Manwich sauce, and melted cheese create an irresistible flavor bomb in every bite. Second, it’s a budget-friendly meal that saves you time and money compared to ordering takeout or pre-packaged meals. And third, the toppings like diced pickles or extra cheese bring an exciting twist that makes each serving uniquely yours. If you enjoy casseroles, this Sloppy Joe version surely rivals our Chicken Alfredo Casserole. Why not give it a try?
How to Make Sloppy Joe Casserole
Quick Overview
Let’s face it, life can get hectic, and you need a dish that’s both easy and satisfying. This casserole comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for those busy nights when you want something hearty without all the fuss. With its creamy textures and rich flavors, your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 can Manwich Sloppy Joe sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
- 1 cup of cooked pasta or rice
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toppings (optional: diced pickles, more cheese)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to get it nice and toasty for our casserole.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink—about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Veggies: Once the beef is cooked, mix in the chopped onions and bell peppers. Let them sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they’re just tender.
- Incorporate Manwich: Stir in the can of Manwich Sloppy Joe sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing those beautiful flavors to blend together.
- Combine with Pasta or Rice: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta or rice with the Sloppy Joe mixture. Ensure everything is well combined.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly for even cooking.
- Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top. Don’t be shy!
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Add optional toppings like diced pickles for an extra zing!
What to Serve Sloppy Joe Casserole With
Pair your Sloppy Joe Casserole with simple, complementary dishes like a fresh garden salad or classic coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it with garlic bread or crispy potato wedges for added comfort. And don’t forget a chilled beverage—lemonade or iced tea perfectly up the ante!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Casserole
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to mix it up! Try ground turkey for a lighter option or switch your cheese to pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Timing Adjustments: Don’t skip the simmering step; it helps meld all those flavors. And if you’re using pre-cooked rice, reduce the baking time to 15 minutes.
- Avoiding Mistakes: Make sure not to overcook the beef at the beginning—keep it juicy!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To enjoy leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap servings tightly in plastic or aluminum foil, and they can last for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes for frozen portions. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick fix!
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different sauce instead of Manwich?
A: Absolutely! Any brand of Sloppy Joe sauce will work – or try a homemade version for a unique twist.
Q: Is this casserole kid-friendly?
A: Yes! The mild flavors and cheesy goodness make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Sure! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or veggie crumbles and adjust the sauce accordingly.
Conclusion
Incorporating Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich into your mealtime rotation is an easy choice! It’s a dish that holds the power to turn a rushed weeknight into a memorable family feast. With its scrumptiously comforting flavors and easy prep, you’ll soon find this casserole gracing your table more often. Why wait? Grab your ingredients and start cooking this fantastic dish that promises to impress everyone around your dinner table. Enjoy every messy, delicious bite!
Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Casserole Dish
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 can Manwich Sloppy Joe sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
- 1 cup cooked pasta or rice
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- diced pickles optional
- more cheese optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Mix in the chopped onions and bell peppers, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Stir in the Manwich sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta or rice with the Sloppy Joe mixture until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Add optional toppings like diced pickles if desired.
1 comment
This was easy, quick, and oh, so very delicious!
I only had about a 4 Oz block of mozzarella cheese, and 3 Oz of cream cheese on hand. I stirred the cream cheese into the hot mixture and topped the casserole with the mozzarella. Popped it into a 350 oven for 25 minutes. All I can say is this meal is, Yum on steroids!!