This Sloppy Joe Casserole is a filling and comforting twist on the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich turned relativity healthy(because the casserole is always better than the sandwich) casserole. This dish usually begins with ground beef or turkey sautéed with onions, bell peppers and garlic before being incorporated into a tangy tomato-based sauce, typically flavoured with ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard and a bit of brown sugar for that classic sweet-salty kick.
The sloppy joe filling is then layered in a baking dish and topped with some hearty base made from cornbread batter or biscuit dough (or tater tots if you want a fun twist). This is then covered and baked until the top is crispy golden on top and the flavours melt together deliciously. The result is a soothing, one-pot, all-in meal that’s super simple to make and so very filling.
Why sloppy joe casserole is so appealing, besides the slop that is joe, is that it’s so versatile. You can easily substitute the ingredients according to dietary preferences — use lean ground chicken or ground beef for a lighter option, or add in vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrients. If you like something a little cheesy, a layer of shredded cheese over the top shortly before you bake takes this over the top.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd, preparing a weeknight dinner, or looking for a dish to make ahead, sloppy joe casserole is a family-friendly meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Table of Contents
The Origins of Sloppy Joe Casserole
This Sloppy Joe Casserole is a modern twist on the original—sloppy joe sandwiches and the SLoppy Joe casserole sandwich originated in the United States. The sloppy Joe itself is said to have originated in the U.S. in the 1930s, although many competing stories exist about who created it. One of the most persistent claims is that a cook named Joe at a diner in Sioux City, Iowa, made the sloppy sandwich by mixing a ground beef mixture with tomato sauce.
The sloppy Joe quickly became a popular meal of the quick and effortless style, especially during the 1950s and 1960s. Sloppy Joe Casserole starts with those same savoury ingredients — ground meat, tomato sauce and seasonings — then combines them into a casserole form, rendering it an even more convenient, comforting meal. The casserole version has become increasingly popular because they are easy to make and can feed a large family or crowd.
Keys for the Perfect Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe
And there are a few essential things to think about to create the ultimate sloppy Joe casserole. First, use good ground meat — beef, turkey or even chicken works, depending on what you want. Make sure to season the meat well, with a rich, savoury base formed by ingredients such as Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, garlic and onion. For a lovely texture, you’ll above all want to cover the meat mixture with moistened layers of fluffy topping, whether it be cornbread or biscuit dough.
Spread the topping across the sloppy joe mixture evenly so that it bakes evenly. Baking-time, is key — bake it long enough such that the topping gets uniformly golden brown and the filling is bubbling hot. Finally, there’s the option to include cheese for extra richness, particularly if you want a cheesy, decadent version.
Why Homemade Sloppy Joe Casserole is a Great Idea
Homemade sloppy joe casserole is an incredible way to go for a number of reasons. First, if you make it yourself, you have complete control over the ingredients, which means you can modify the flavour and the nutritional quality to suit your taste. In fact, homemade casseroles are typically much healthier than store-bought or pre-packaged options, which can have preservatives, excessive sodium or unhealthy fats. Making a sloppy joe casserole at home can also help save you money, particularly when you are cooking on a budget for a family.
This dish is also quite adaptable; you can throw in vegetables, substitute the protein for a leaner one, or use a healthier cornbread or biscuit bottom. For family dinners, there’s the benefit of customizing this dish however you like and how much fun cooking from scratch can be, which is why sloppy joe casserole from scratch is such a perfect choice!
Health Benefits of Sloppy Joe Casserole
When prepared with lean meat and fresh ingredients, Sloppy Joe Casserole has several health advantages. Ground turkey or lean beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein that is vital to building muscle and overall health. Plus, the tomato-based sauce is loaded with vitamins A and C, which are key nutrients for immune function and skin health.
You can also consider adding other veggies, such as bell peppers, zucchini or even spinach, which will add extra fibre to your casserole that is great for digestion and heart health. Here is a simple table of the primary nutrients you get from healthy homemade sloppy joe casserole:
| Ingredient | Nutrient Benefit |
|---|---|
| Lean Ground Beef/Turkey | Protein, Iron, B Vitamins |
| Tomato Sauce | Vitamin C, Antioxidants, Lycopene |
| Bell Peppers | Vitamin C, Fiber, Folate |
| Zucchini | Fiber, Vitamin A, Potassium |
| Cheese (Optional) | Calcium, Protein, Vitamin B12 |
Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe From OoohDelish!
Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula (for stirring)
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey for a lighter option
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 15 oz tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 box 8.5 oz cornbread mix (plus ingredients as directed on the box, typically 1 egg and 1/3 cup milk)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional, for topping
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling
- In a big skillet, brown the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat, thoroughly cooking it through, and using a spoon to break it up as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper and garlic. Cook, stirring, for 3 to 4 minutes or until softened.
- Add the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, salt and black pepper and stir. Allow the mixture to cook for 5-7 minutes until it is thickened slightly. Remove from heat.
Prepare the Cornbread Batter
- In a mixing bowl, prepare the cornbread batter according to the instructions on the cornbread mix box (typically add egg and milk). Stir in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, if desired, for extra flavour.
Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the sloppy joe mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the cornbread batter over the sloppy joe mixture, spreading it out evenly to cover the top. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the cornbread batter, if desired.
Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.
Serve
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For a healthier version, substitute ground turkey for ground beef, and opt for a low-sodium tomato sauce and ketchup.
To make it extra cheesy, add a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese to the sloppy joe filling before topping with cornbread batter.
Sloppy Joe Casserole and the Keto Regimen
With a few tweaks, Sloppy Joe Casserole can also be keto-friendly. Instead of a traditional cornbread or biscuit topping, you can use almond flour-based dough or cheese crust for a low-carb option. Use sugar free ketchup or a no sugar added tomato paste instead of regular ketchup.
For the meat, opt for higher-fat options like ground beef or pork to keep the dish in line with the keto macronutrient ratio (high-fat, moderate protein, and low-carb). This way, you can still enjoy the savoury flavours and comforting texture of a sloppy joe casserole without kicking your body out of ketosis.
Sloppy Joe Casserole and Weight Loss
On a weight loss journey? Work some sloppy joe casserole into your meal plan with some changes. The trick is to use smaller portion sizes and choose leaner proteins like ground turkey or chicken that contain less fat and fewer calories. By trading the traditional topping for a lighter, whole-grain biscuit dough or even a vegetable-based topping like mashed cauliflower, the calorie count can drop while still providing a hearty texture.
By packing even more veggies into the casserole, you’ll also boost its fibre content, which improves satiety and digestion, making it easier to stay in a calorie deficit for weight loss. Make sloppy joe casserole a nutritious, filling option for those trying to lose weight by using lean meat and fibre-filled veggies.
Sloppy Joe Casserole as a Family Favorite
Sloppy Joe Casserole is great for busy families or meal-preppers. It’s quick to put together if you cook the meat mixture ahead and are highly adaptable to all tastes and diets. It’s beloved by kids for its cozy, familiar flavours, while adults appreciate its ease of preparation and freedom. When paired with fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or some crispy fries, sloppy joe casserole is a dish that brings people together around the dinner table.
FAQs : Sloppy Joe Casserole
How to make sloppy joe casserole?
To make sloppy joe casserole, start by cooking ground beef or turkey with onions and garlic. Add a savory tomato-based sauce with Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, and seasonings. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, and top with cornbread or biscuit dough. Bake until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Optionally, you can add cheese on top for extra richness.
What to serve with sloppy joe casserole?
Sloppy joe casserole pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, crispy fries, or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes to add more variety and texture to the meal.
Can you freeze sloppy joe casserole?
Yes, you can freeze sloppy joe casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it directly from frozen or thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as usual.
What goes with sloppy joe casserole?
Sloppy joe casserole is versatile and can be served with many side dishes. Try pairing it with a crisp, refreshing coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a side of sautéed greens like spinach or kale. You could also serve it with a light soup, like a tomato bisque, for a comforting meal combination.
Share Your Twist!
We’d love to hear your version of the Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe ! What special ingredients or techniques do you use to make it uniquely yours? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other to create even more delicious meals!
References
Try our recipes from OoohDelish!