A Comfort Food Classic With a Cheesy Twist

If you grew up loving the saucy, savory messiness of a classic Sloppy Joe, you’re going to fall head-over-heels for this Sloppy Joe Casserole. It’s everything you love about the iconic sandwich—tangy tomato-based beef, zesty seasonings, and hearty bites—but with a cozy, baked pasta twist that makes it a one-dish wonder perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and everything in between.

This dish brings together ground beef, bell peppers, and onions in a rich, seasoned tomato sauce, combined with elbow noodles and gooey, melty cheese for the ultimate comfort food. It’s family-friendly, kid-approved, and easy enough to whip up even on your busiest days.

Who This Recipe Is For

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a meal that satisfies everyone at the table, a college student craving something nostalgic, or a comfort food lover looking for a warm, cheesy casserole to dig into, this Sloppy Joe Casserole is for you.

This recipe is also ideal for:

Meal preppers looking for hearty leftovers
Home cooks on a budget (affordable pantry staples!)
Anyone feeding a crowd—this makes a generous 9×13″ pan

Why You’ll Love This Sloppy Joe Casserole

One-pan prep before baking: Cook the beef, sauce, and pasta in one pan before baking.
Crowd-pleasing flavors: Classic Sloppy Joe flavor meets comforting pasta casserole.
Super cheesy: Velveeta and shredded cheddar make it rich, creamy, and irresistible.
Easy ingredients: Everything used is budget-friendly and likely in your pantry already.
Great for leftovers: It reheats beautifully and even freezes well.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything that goes into this cheesy Sloppy Joe pasta bake:

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons mustard
1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1/2 cup beef stock
12 ounces elbow noodles (uncooked)
8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this recipe smooth and stress-free, have the following tools ready:

Large skillet or deep sauté pan
9×13-inch casserole dish
Mixing spoon or spatula
Cutting board and knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Aluminum foil (optional for storage)
Cheese grater (if not using pre-shredded cheddar)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set it aside.

2. Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.

3. Sauté the Veggies

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables soften. Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.

4. Build the Sauce

Stir in the ketchup, mustard, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, diced tomatoes (with juices), and beef stock. Mix until combined and bring to a light simmer.

5. Add the Pasta

Add the uncooked elbow noodles, stirring well to coat and submerge them in the sauce. Cover the skillet and simmer on medium-low heat for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender.

6. Make It Cheesy

Lower the heat and stir in the cubed Velveeta. Mix until it melts and fully coats the pasta. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash more beef stock.

7. Bake the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into your greased casserole dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

8. Let It Rest

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Sloppy Joe Casserole

Don’t overcook the pasta on the stovetop—remember it will bake further in the oven.
Use lean ground beef (85–90%) to keep things meaty but not greasy.
Let it sit after baking to firm up a bit—it’ll slice better and hold together on your plate.
Add a kick by including a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce.
Short on time? You can skip the baking step and serve straight from the stovetop with cheese melted on top.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

Want to customize your casserole? Here are some easy ideas:

Meat swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles instead of beef.
Cheese options: Swap Velveeta for cream cheese or add mozzarella for extra stretch.
Low-carb: Use cooked riced cauliflower instead of pasta.
Veggie boost: Add corn, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.
Make it spicy: Add chipotle powder, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños.

How to Store Leftovers

This casserole makes generous portions, so leftovers are likely—and delicious.

Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To Reheat: Warm in the microwave in 60-second bursts or bake at 350°F until heated through. Add a splash of beef stock or water if it looks dry.

What to Serve with Sloppy Joe Casserole

This dish is hearty on its own, but a few simple sides can round out the meal:

Fresh green salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness
Steamed green beans or broccoli for color and crunch
Garlic bread or buttered rolls for mopping up the sauce
Pickles or coleslaw for a zippy contrast

Drink Pairings:

A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade keeps things classic.
For adults, try a malty amber ale or a smooth red wine like merlot.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to eat, adding 5–10 minutes to the baking time if cold.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, rotini, or shells work well. Just avoid long noodles like spaghetti or fettuccine.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes beautifully. Just be sure to cool it completely before wrapping and freezing. For best texture, avoid freezing for more than 3 months.

Can I double this recipe?

You sure can! Just use two 9×13 dishes or one deep roasting pan, and increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes.

Can I make this without Velveeta?

Yes. Swap with cream cheese or a homemade cheese sauce using butter, flour, milk, and shredded cheese.

Final Thoughts

Sloppy Joe Casserole is one of those magical meals that’s nostalgic, hearty, cheesy, and perfect for bringing people together. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or stocking your freezer with comforting meals, this dish delivers big on flavor and ease.

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