Transform the classic Sloppy Joe into a mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing casserole with this Ultimate Sloppy Joe Casserole recipe. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this casserole combines all the beloved flavors of Sloppy Joes with the hearty comfort of a baked dish. Packed with ground beef, vegetables, and melted cheese, it’s a surefire hit for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3/4 cup diced onion
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper (from one medium pepper)
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- Fresh black pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 28-ounce can tomato sauce
- 28-ounce bag frozen, diced potatoes (such as Potatoes O’Brien with onions and peppers)
- 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Preparation:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and green bell pepper, cooking until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes.
- Season with kosher salt, fresh black pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Stir to combine.
- Create the Sloppy Joe Sauce:
- Mix in the brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and stir until everything is well combined.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the frozen diced potatoes evenly in the bottom of a large baking dish.
- Pour the Sloppy Joe mixture over the potatoes, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
- Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Scoop portions onto plates and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness.
Conclusion:
This Ultimate Sloppy Joe Casserole takes a beloved classic and elevates it to new heights with a comforting, cheesy twist. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, it’s the perfect dish to share with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply craving a hearty meal, this casserole is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy the nostalgic flavors and the convenience of this all-in-one dish!