Sloppy Joe Casserole Bake

This Sloppy Joe casserole transforms the classic sandwich into a comforting and hearty pasta bake that comes together quickly on busy nights. Ground beef, a flavorful sloppy joe sauce, and creamy Velveeta cheese mingle perfectly with corkscrew pasta, then it all gets topped with melty Colby Jack cheese and baked until golden. It is a family favorite that feels cozy and satisfying with minimal effort.

The first time I made this, I needed a fast dinner that could please everyone, and the smiles around the table told me this one would become a staple for family meals.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: adds richness and a savory depth choose beef with a bit of fat for best flavor
• Small onion: finely diced to gently melt into the sauce look for a firm and sweet onion
• Canned sloppy joe sauce: classic Manwich provides bold flavor and keeps this recipe super weeknight friendly
• Velveeta cheese: creates a creamy smooth sauce use the original type for the best melt and cube it for even cooking
• Corkscrew pasta: perfect for holding onto sauce in every spiral cook until just al dente so it holds up when baked
• Colby Jack cheese: melts beautifully for a bubbly golden topping freshly shredded cheese always melts better
• Parsley: adds a fresh pop of color and brightness just before serving

Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onion:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Continue stirring until the beef is fully browned with no pink left. Drain off excess grease carefully to keep the casserole from becoming oily. Cooking the onion slowly with the beef creates a flavorful base.

Combine with Sauce and Velveeta:

Add both cans of sloppy joe sauce and all the cubed Velveeta cheese to the skillet with the browned beef. Stir gently and patiently over low heat until the cheese melts completely into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy mixture. This step is key for the sauce’s luxurious texture, so do not rush.

Mix in Pasta:

Add the cooked corkscrew pasta to the cheesy beef sauce. Fold the pasta slowly into the sauce so every piece is thoroughly coated with the creamy sloppy joe mixture. Take your time here to ensure even coverage so the casserole bakes uniformly.

Transfer to Baking Dish and Top:

Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9 by 13 inch baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the surface evenly. Then sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese in an even layer over the top for that perfect golden crust. The cheese topping adds a wonderful texture contrast.

Bake and Finish:

Place the baking dish in the middle rack of a preheated oven. Bake for approximately 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking to set up, which helps it slice neatly and keeps it from falling apart when served.

Cheese is my favorite part of this dish. Watching Velveeta transform into a silky sauce and then that golden Colby Jack bubbling on top always brings back memories of family dinners where everyone competed for the most cheesy piece.

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well for up to three days stored airtight in the fridge. Reheat by covering with foil in a warm oven or microwave individual portions. If the casserole seems dry when reheated, stir in a splash of milk to bring back creaminess.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can stand in for beef to lighten the dish. Any short pasta like penne or rotini can replace corkscrews and still hold sauce well. Substitute Colby Jack cheese with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole on its own or with a crisp green salad for freshness. Garlic bread pairs wonderfully for soaking up extra sauce. For extra flair, top bowls with extra shredded cheese or crushed crackers to add crunch.

Enjoy this cheesy Sloppy Joe casserole at your next family dinner.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ What kind of pasta works best?

Corkscrew or rotini pasta hold the sauce well, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Penne or macaroni are good alternatives.

→ Can other cheeses replace Velveeta?

Yes, cheddar or American cheese can be used, but Velveeta creates the smoothest, creamiest texture in this dish.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can assemble and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight and bake until heated through and bubbly.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables complement this hearty bake nicely for a balanced meal.

→ Can ground turkey be used instead of beef?

Absolutely! Lean ground turkey offers a lighter taste while still absorbing the flavors from the sauce and cheese.