Description
A cozy, cheesy twist on the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich—baked into a hearty casserole with pasta, savory beef, and melty cheddar cheese. Perfect for weeknights, leftovers, or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 3 cups cooked pasta (elbow or penne)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup crushed crackers or French fried onions (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes until soft.
- Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire, mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes.
- Combine cooked pasta with meat sauce and 1 cup cheese in a large bowl.
- Pour mixture into baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and optional toppings.
- Bake uncovered for 20–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
-
Substitute ground chicken or plant-based crumbles if desired.
-
Try other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
-
Add mushrooms, corn, or black beans to bulk it up.
-
Use gluten-free pasta and sauces for a gluten-free version.
-
Make ahead and freeze before baking for an easy freezer meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 520