Sloppy Joe Casserole

Sloppy Joe Casserole is the perfect way to enjoy the nostalgic taste of classic sloppy joes in a hearty, baked pasta dish. Combining tender bowtie noodles, seasoned ground beef, tangy Manwich sauce, and two kinds of gooey cheese, this recipe delivers a satisfying, family-friendly dinner in under an hour. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that works for weeknights, potlucks, or any time you need a comforting dish with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
• 24 ounces original Manwich sauce
• 15 ounces original Manwich sauce
• 12 ounces farfalle (bowtie noodles), cooked al dente
• 8 ounces Velveeta, shredded
• 8 ounces Colby-jack cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 9×13 baking dish.
2. In a 4 to 5 quart heavy-bottomed stockpot, brown ground beef and diced onion over medium-high heat.
3. Drain any excess grease, then return beef and onions to the pot.
4. Add both cans of Manwich sauce, cooked bowtie noodles, and shredded Velveeta. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Sprinkle shredded Colby-jack cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve hot straight from the oven with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for extra heat.
2. BBQ Twist: Replace one can of Manwich sauce with BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor.
3. Veggie Boost: Mix in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrients and texture.
4. Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
5. Cheese Lovers: Add an extra layer of mozzarella or cheddar before baking for more cheesiness.
6. Tex-Mex Style: Stir in a can of black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a Southwestern flair.
7. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure sauce is gluten-free.
8. Extra Creamy: Add ½ cup sour cream to the beef mixture before baking for richer texture.
9. Italian Fusion: Swap Manwich for marinara sauce and top with parmesan for a pasta bake twist.
10. Loaded Casserole: Add crispy bacon bits on top before serving for extra flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, assemble it up to the baking step and refrigerate for 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I use a different pasta? Absolutely, penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work well.
3. Do I have to use Velveeta? No, you can replace it with shredded cheddar or a cheese blend.
4. Can I double the recipe? Yes, just use a larger baking dish or two 9×13 pans.
5. How do I make it less sweet? Use a savory sloppy joe sauce or make your own with tomato sauce and seasonings.
6. Is this freezer-friendly? Yes, freeze baked or unbaked portions for up to 2 months.
7. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sauce? Not recommended unless you cook them down into a thick sauce first.
8. What side dishes go well with this? Salad, garlic bread, roasted veggies, or coleslaw are great choices.
9. Can I make it dairy-free? Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
10. How do I reheat leftovers? Oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual servings.

This Sloppy Joe Casserole offers a delicious twist on a classic favorite, blending the sweet and tangy flavors of sloppy joes with creamy pasta and cheese. Quick to prepare and packed with comforting goodness, it’s the perfect recipe to bring families together at the dinner table

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