Sloppy Joe Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of Sloppy Joes with a delicious biscuit topping. This casserole is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family meal. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Sloppy Joe Casserole. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joe Casserole:
- 1 lb cooked extra lean ground beef
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 can of sloppy joe sauce (manwich), 398ml
- ⅔ cup light shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 (7.5oz) can of Pillsbury biscuits (from the 4 value pack, or adjust for bigger biscuits)
- 1.5 tablespoons melted reduced-calorie margarine
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
- Cook Ground Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onions until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Sloppy Joe Sauce: Add the can of sloppy joe sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
Step 2: Prepare the Biscuit Topping
- Melt Margarine: In a small bowl, combine the melted reduced-calorie margarine, diced fresh garlic, and dried oregano. Mix well.
- Prepare Biscuits: Separate the Pillsbury biscuits and cut each biscuit into quarters.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer Beef Mixture: Spread the ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the light shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the beef mixture.
- Add Biscuit Topping: Place the biscuit quarters evenly over the top of the cheese layer. Brush the garlic margarine mixture over the biscuits.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
- Cool Slightly: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve: Serve the Sloppy Joe Casserole hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Ground Beef: Extra lean ground beef helps reduce the fat content, but you can use regular ground beef if preferred. Just be sure to drain the excess fat.
- Biscuit Topping: For a crispier biscuit topping, separate the biscuits more evenly and ensure they have space to expand.
Variations
- Spicy Sloppy Joe: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat substitute or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Variations: Use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend instead of mozzarella for different flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Assemble and bake the casserole just before serving.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Q3: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q4: What can I serve with Sloppy Joe Casserole?
A: This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or coleslaw.
Q5: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, feel free to use any type of shredded cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, Swiss, or a Mexican cheese blend.
Sloppy Joe Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its combination of seasoned ground beef, tangy sloppy joe sauce, and a cheesy biscuit topping, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a tasty and satisfying casserole that everyone will love. Serve this delightful dish with your favorite sides for a complete and hearty meal!
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a comforting family meal, or a fun dish to share with friends, this Sloppy Joe Casserole is an excellent choice. Enjoy the rich flavors and the ease of preparation, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make this recipe your own.
