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Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe

This Sloppy Joe Casserole is SO EASY! A tangy, cheesy, and hearty one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights and casual family dinners.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Casserole, Comfort Food, Easy, Ground Beef, Quick
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef lean
  • 1 small onion peeled and finely chopped
  • 1 pound cavatappi pasta or other small pasta
  • 4 cups chicken broth or water
  • 8 ounces tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar packed
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese for serving, optional
  • Hot sauce for serving, optional
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley for garnish, optional

Instructions

  • Place your skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook it, breaking it apart with your spoon, until it’s no longer pink. Add the finely chopped onion and continue to cook until the onion turns translucent and soft. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
  • Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, white vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and dried mustard. Mix everything thoroughly and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  • Add the uncooked cavatappi pasta directly into the skillet or transfer the beef mixture to your casserole dish. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring gently to combine so the pasta is evenly submerged.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened nicely.
  • Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and return to the oven. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
  • Once out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm with hot sauce on the side if you like a little extra kick.

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Large oven-safe casserole dish or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Colander

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce greasiness and keep the dish balanced.
  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth to retain moisture.