5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole is a simple, comforting meal that your whole family will love. Combining the classic flavors of sloppy joes with the ease of a casserole, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (15 oz) can sloppy joe sauce
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn), thawed
- 4 cups cubed soft sandwich bread (about 5–6 slices)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Step 3: Stir the sloppy joe sauce and thawed mixed vegetables into the browned beef. Simmer the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
- Step 4: Spread the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the beef mixture over the bread and spread it out evenly.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the beef layer.
- Step 6: Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and the casserole is heated through.
- Step 7: Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add diced onions or garlic when browning the beef.
- Substitute mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different taste.
- Use whole grain or gluten-free bread to suit dietary preferences.
- Add a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through. Avoid freezing, as the bread may become soggy upon thawing.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef to make a lighter version. Cook the meat thoroughly before adding the sauce.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This easy and comforting 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole transforms the classic sloppy joe sandwich into a delicious baked dish. Featuring ground beef simmered with tangy sloppy joe sauce and mixed vegetables layered over soft sandwich bread, topped with melted cheddar cheese, it’s a perfect hassle-free meal for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (15 oz) can sloppy joe sauce
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn), thawed
- 4 cups cubed soft sandwich bread (about 5–6 slices)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Brown Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully browned and no pink remains, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Combine Sauce and Vegetables: Add the sloppy joe sauce along with the thawed mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir well and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
- Assemble Base Layer: Spread the cubed soft sandwich bread evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the beef mixture evenly over the bread cubes, spreading it uniformly to cover the entire surface.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the beef and bread layers to create a cheese topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and the dish is thoroughly heated.
- Rest before Serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for 5 minutes to set before serving. This resting time helps the casserole firm up for easier serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider sprinkling some garlic powder or onion powder into the beef while browning.
- You can substitute the frozen mixed vegetables with fresh or other favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a dash of hot sauce or some crushed red pepper flakes when simmering the beef mixture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Using day-old or slightly stale bread can help the bread cubes hold their shape better during baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Sloppy Joe casserole, easy dinner casserole, 5 ingredient casserole, ground beef casserole, cheesy casserole
