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This cheesy Sloppy Joe casserole with pasta swirls delivers the essence of a classic sandwich in bubbly, golden comfort food form. The hearty ground beef filling melds with a duo of melty cheeses and tender noodles for a weeknight dinner guaranteed to warm you up.
The first time I baked this was after a long school night and my family went wild for the crispy golden cheese on top—I now keep it on rotation for busy weeks.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: adds robust savory flavor and protein Opt for fresh bright red beef with a bit of fat for juiciness
- Small onion: builds the sweet base Make sure it is firm and aromatic with unblemished skin
- Green and red bell pepper: offer sweetness and color Look for glossy peppers that feel heavy for their size
- Garlic: brings depth and aroma Choose plump cloves with tight skin
- Tomato sauce: for sauciness Pick a brand without excess sugar or additives
- Ketchup: adds classic Sloppy Joe tang A little goes a long way for flavor
- Tomato paste: intensifies the richness Use for thickening and boldness
- Worcestershire sauce: gives umami and savory notes Go for original for best balance
- Brown sugar: tames acidity and rounds out flavors Use dark brown sugar for richer taste
- Chili powder: brings gentle spice Optional but recommended for a lift
- Salt and pepper: balance all the flavors Always taste before finishing
- Uncooked pasta in swirls: holds onto sauce Rotini or cavatappi are perfect for catching all the savory bits
- Shredded cheddar cheese: brings meltiness and tang Freshly grated melts better and tastes brighter
- Mozzarella (optional): but for extra gooey stretch Use part skim blocks for superior melt
- Olive oil: helps sauté everything evenly Use a light fruity olive oil for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil pasta in well salted water until just al dente about 8 to 9 minutes Drain quickly and toss with a bit of oil to prevent sticking
- Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add onion and both peppers sauté slowly for about 4 minutes until fragrant and softened Toss in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds just until it blooms Pour in the ground beef Cook and break it into crumbles Stir until deeply browned and no longer pink then drain off extra fat for a neater bake
- Make it Sloppy:
- Return the skillet to the heat Gently stir in tomato sauce ketchup tomato paste Worcestershire sauce brown sugar chili powder salt and pepper Simmer on low stirring occasionally for 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture is thick and flavorful Test for seasoning and adjust to taste
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit 190 degrees Celsius In a big bowl combine the beef mixture with your cooked pasta Stir until everything is evenly coated Spoon it into a greased white baking dish Scatter cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the top
- Bake and Serve:
- Place casserole uncovered on the middle rack Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the top is bubbling and golden Let cool for at least 10 minutes before serving The cheese will set slightly and make slicing cleaner
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Cheddar cheese is my favorite part of this recipe The way it melts and browns across the top always draws everyone to the kitchen Growing up my kids would cluster around the oven drawn by the cheesy aroma as it baked
Storage Tips
Cool the casserole fully before covering and storing It will keep well in the fridge for up to three days For longer storage freeze sliced portions in airtight containers Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently in the oven
Ingredient Substitutions
Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist Swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack if you prefer Try diced mushrooms or shredded zucchini for extra vegetables You can even use whole wheat or gluten free pasta as needed
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for balance Garlic bread or a simple cucumber salad makes for a fresh contrasting side This dish also works wonderfully for potlucks or casual gatherings
Cultural Context
The original Sloppy Joe is an American diner classic with ground beef and tangy tomato sauce in a bun This casserole form brings all those nostalgic flavors and textures in a form that is satisfying and easy for sharing
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best?
Rotini or cavatappi hold the sauce well, but any sturdy short pasta like penne or fusilli also works beautifully.
- → Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, try Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder flavor, or add a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra depth.
- → How can I add more vegetables?
Add diced carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms along with the peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead?
Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.