Sloppy Joe Casserole Dish

This hearty Sloppy Joe Casserole brings together savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce to create a comforting meal that fills the whole family. It takes the beloved flavors of a classic Sloppy Joe sandwich and transforms them into a baked casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

I first made this on a hectic weeknight when I wanted to change things up from the usual pasta dinners. Since then my family asks for it whenever they spot Velveeta and Manwich sauce in the fridge. It has become our go to cozy dinner that never disappoints.

Ingredients

• Ground beef 85 percent lean: provides meaty richness without too much fat choose fresh and firm looking beef for the best texture
• Onions diced: add subtle sweetness and depth yellow onions work best for a natural mild flavor
• Manwich sauce: offers classic diner style sloppy joe tang and spice without fuss
• Chicken broth: keeps the casserole moist while enhancing savory notes low sodium helps control saltiness
• Diced tomatoes undrained: add juicy sweetness and balance pick a high quality brand with good color and flavor
• Farfalle pasta uncooked: bowtie shaped pasta holds sauce well substitute with penne or rotini if preferred
• Velveeta cheese cubed: melts into a creamy smooth sauce that binds the dish together
• Corn frozen or canned drained: adds natural sweetness and a nice texture contrast
• Shredded cheddar cheese topping: bakes into a golden crust providing richness and sharpness use freshly shredded for best melt and taste

Instructions

Sauté the beef and onions:

Cook one pound of ground beef in a large high walled skillet over medium high heat for about two minutes. Add half a cup of diced onions and continue cooking for five minutes until the beef is fully browned and the onions become soft and fragrant. Drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy finished dish. This step builds a savory base for the casserole.

Combine the liquids and pasta:

Pour in a 15.5ounce can of Manwich sauce, two and a half cups of chicken broth, and an undrained 14.5ounce can of diced tomatoes. Bring these to a gentle boil. Then add three quarters of a pound of uncooked farfalle pasta and stir to combine. Cover and simmer gently. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom. Cook just slightly longer than the package instructions for al dente to ensure the pasta finishes cooking in the oven without getting mushy.

Add corn and Velveeta cheese:

Once the pasta is nearly tender, reduce the heat to low and stir in one cup of corn. Distribute eight ounces of Velveeta cheese cubes evenly on top of the mixture. Cover the pot to let the cheese melt then gently stir until fully incorporated. The Velveeta creates a creamy sauce that makes this casserole uniquely indulgent.

Bake the casserole:

Transfer everything to a lightly greased nine by thirteen inch casserole dish and sprinkle one and a half cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover and bake in a 375degree oven for 15 minutes until bubbly. Remove the cover to let the cheese brown slightly. Serve it hot with a side of cornbread for a true comfort meal.

My favorite part has to be the cheesy sauce made from Velveeta. It melts so smoothly and turns this dish into creamy goodness everyone loves. Making this recipe always reminds me of relaxed family dinners where everyone digs in and shares stories, creating a warm sense of togetherness.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350degree oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving to keep the creamy texture intact. For longer storage freeze the casserole before baking and thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have Manwich sauce, mix ketchup with Worcestershire sauce and a dash of chili powder for a similar tangy flavor. Substitute Velveeta with cream cheese or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a different cheese texture. Try swapping farfalle for penne or shell pasta based on what’s available in your pantry.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole with classic cornbread or a simple green salad to balance the richness. Pickled jalapenos or a squeeze of lemon offer a bright refreshing contrast. It also pairs nicely with steamed vegetables for extra color and nutrients on the plate.

This Sloppy Joe Casserole is a simple weeknight winner that feeds a crowd. Leftovers reheat well and make a comforting meal the next day.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ Can I use different pasta types?

Penne, rotini, or macaroni can be good substitutes. Adjust cooking times to keep pasta tender without becoming mushy.

→ Should I drain the diced tomatoes before cooking?

No need to drain diced tomatoes; adding them undrained helps keep the sauce flavorful and moist throughout baking.

→ What cheese is best for topping the casserole?

Shredded cheddar melts well and forms a golden crust, but mozzarella or cheese blends can add different textures and flavors.

→ Can this dish be prepared in advance?

Yes, you can assemble it ahead, refrigerate covered up to three days, then bake just before serving for convenience.

→ How do I prevent pasta from sticking while cooking?

Stir the pasta occasionally as it simmers in the sauce to keep it from settling and sticking to the bottom of the pot.