Easy Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe for Busy Nights

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For an easy, satisfying weeknight dinner that hits all the comfort food notes, try my Sloppy Joe Casserole. It’s like a mash-up between lasagna and sloppy joes: hearty, kid-friendly, and perfect for potlucks or casual family dinners.

For more comfort food dinners, check out my Souped Up Sloppy Joes, Spaghetti Casserole, and King Ranch Casserole.

I got this recipe from an old 4-H club community cookbook.  It’s an easy casserole that is a little like lasagna but with the delicious flavor of sloppy joes.  You can use any sloppy joe recipe, and you can switch up the cheese type as well.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All the flavor of sloppy joes minus the bun.
• A fun twist on a classic family dinner.
• Budget-friendly using simple pantry staples.
• Perfect for making ahead or feeding a crowd.

Ingredients Needed

 Elbow macaroni: Cook it al dente for the perfect texture.

Sloppy Joe Seasoning Mix: Or use your own blend of ground chili peppers, paprika, onion, and brown sugar. Recipe in the FAQ section.

Ground Beef: Lean is best, but any ground meat works.

Tomato Paste: Adds umami and color.

Tomato Sauce: Adds liquid, acidity, and sweetness. You can use canned tomatoes as well.

Cottage Cheese: Adds creamy layers, a bit like lasagna. You could use ricotta as well.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Our favorite melting cheese.

How To Make Sloppy Joe Casserole

An easy recipe that is perfect for weeknights as well as for meal prep. For the full printable recipe, check out the recipe card at the end of this post.

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 3-quart casserole dish with cooking spray and set aside.
2. Cook macaroni as directed on the package. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown ground beef and drain off any excess grease. Add sloppy joe seasoning and tomato paste, and cook on medium heat for 2 minutes to develop the tomato flavor. Add tomato sauce and water; stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. In the prepared casserole, layer half of the macaroni and top it with half of the cottage cheese. Top with half of the beef mixture. Repeat layers and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
5. Bake uncovered at 350 F for 45-50 minutes until cheese is golden and casserole is bubbling.

Helpful Tips

• I use a slotted spoon or ladle when layering, as the beef mixture is pretty saucy.
• Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving so that it all holds up better.
• Sometimes I add a handful of frozen peas or corn to the beef mixture for some color and extra veggies.

Storage Information

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Freeze tightly wrapped individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven from frozen (covered).

Reheat: In the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until heated through

Serving Suggestions

• We like this with a simple side Salad, like a green salad, or this Tossed Salad Recipe.
• Garlic Bread or a baguette is great for cleaning the plate.
• Steamed broccoli or any simple veggie side keeps it classic and fuss-free.

Variations

• Swap cottage cheese for ricotta if you prefer a milder taste and smoother texture.
• Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat for a lighter version.
• Use any cheese you like. Try mozzarella, Colby Jack, or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
• Add sautéed corn or peas for color, and consider adding chopped mushrooms or roasted red bell peppers for more depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Recipes For Feeding A Crowd

• Tuna Noodle Casserole
• Party Potato Casserole
• Kansas City Steakhouse Soup
• Old South Sausage Pie