Name: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds ground beef; 1 onion (finely chopped); 1 green bell pepper (diced); 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 3 tablespoons yellow mustard; ¾ cup ketchup; ¼ cup water (plus more if needed); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; 1 Jiffy corn muffin mix (8oz packet ); ⅓ cup milk; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 egg; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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This Sloppy Joe Casserole is one of those dinners I make when I want something filling, easy, and guaranteed to get eaten. It has all the classic sloppy joe flavors, but instead of piling everything onto buns, it’s baked in a dish with a cornbread topping and finished with melted cheese. Less mess, same comfort-food vibes.

If you like sloppy joes but want a break from sandwiches, this casserole is a really good option.

This sloppy joe casserole is great for busy weeknights, especially when you don’t feel lile juggling sides or making anything fancy. Everything bakes together, and you can scoop it straight from the dish. If sloppy joes show up a lot in your house, you might also like my Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes or Taco Sloppy Joes. Same idea, same flavors, just mixed up enough to keep dinner from getting boring.

Why you’ll love this Sloppy Joe Casserole

It’s easy and forgiving
There’s nothing precise about this recipe, and that’s the point. You cook the beef, stir in the sauce, spread it out, and top it with cornbread. If it simmers a little longer or bakes a little extra, it’s still good.
It feels like a full meal
Between the sloppy joe filling, cornbread topping, and cheese, you don’t really need much else. A salad is nice, but not required. This one holds its own.
It works for leftovers
Sloppy joe casserole reheats really well and doesn’t dry out. It’s just as good the next day, which makes it great for lunches or a second easy dinner later in the week.

Why A Casserole Over a Sandwich

When I moved to America, I was introduced to Sloppy Joes, a dish I didn’t grow up with, but one that quickly won me over. But if I’m honest, they can be a bit, well, sloppy! So, I decided to take all those tasty elements and bake them into a casserole, creating a less messy, but equally delicious, version of this American classic. If you like one-pan dinners, try my One Pot Spaghetti for an easy dinner fix.

Ingredients Needed for Sloppy Joe Casserole

Ground beef – Lean ground beef works best so the casserole doesn’t end up greasy. If you’re using something fattier, just drain it well.
Onion and green bell pepper – These add flavor and texture without making the sauce chunky. Chop them small so they blend right in.
Ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar – This is what gives you that classic sloppy joe taste. Sweet, tangy, and familiar.
Corn muffin mix – Using Jiffy keeps the cornbread topping easy. Just mix it until combined so it stays soft. If you would like to make your own, try my Skillet Cornbread recipe and just pour it over the top!
Cheddar cheese – Sprinkled on at the end so it melts right into the top.

How to make Sloppy Joe Casserole

**For more detailed instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card below.**

Onions and peppers in a pan with cooked beef.

Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned and add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened

Ketchup, mustard in a pan with other ingredients in a pan.

Stir in the brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, ketchup, water, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

Egg milk and cornbread mixture in a bowl.

In a separate bowl, mix the corn muffin mix, milk, vegetable oil, and egg until just combined.

Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.

Sloppy Joe Casserole uncooked in a baking pan.

Pour the cornbread batter over the beef mixture, spreading it out evenly.

Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy twist. It’s perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals.
BBQ Sloppy Joe: Swap the ketchup for your favorite BBQ sauce. This gives the casserole a smoky, tangy flavor that’s sure to be a hit at summer gatherings.
Southwestern Style: Add in some black beans and corn to the beef mixture. Top with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a Southwestern flair.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils. You’ll still get all the great flavors in a meat-free version.
Cheesy Cornbread: Mix some shredded cheese into the cornbread batter before pouring it over the beef mixture. This gives you a cheesy surprise in every bite.

Serving Suggestions

With a Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great way to balance the richness of the casserole.
Extra Cornbread Love: Serve this dish alongside my Skillet cornbread for those who can’t get enough of that sweet, buttery goodness.
Sour Cream and Chives: A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chives add a cool, creamy contrast to the warm, savory casserole.
Pickles on the Side: Some tangy pickles on the side add a nice crunch and acidity that complements the flavors of the casserole.
With a Vegetable Side: Roasted or steamed veggies like green beans or broccoli make for a nutritious and colorful addition to the meal.

Storage and Freezing

How should I store Sloppy Joe Casserole?

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze Sloppy Joe Casserole?

This casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

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Tips & Tricks

Drain the Beef Well: Make sure to drain the beef thoroughly after browning. Excess grease can make the casserole too oily.
Don’t Overmix the Cornbread Batter: Stir the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cornbread topping.
Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a saucier casserole, add a bit more water or even some beef broth while simmering the beef mixture.
Check the Cornbread Doneness: Use a toothpick to check the cornbread before removing it from the oven. If it comes out clean, it’s ready.

More Comfort Foods

FAQ

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat. Just be aware that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use if I don’t have Jiffy mix?
You can use any other brand of corn muffin mix, or you can make your own cornbread batter from scratch. If you’re feeling up for it, try using my Skillet Cornbread recipe as a substitute. Just be mindful that a regular cornbread recipe may require a slightly longer baking time, so keep an eye on it and check for doneness with a toothpick before removing it from the oven.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, feel free to add veggies like corn, black beans, or even diced tomatoes to the beef mixture. It’s a great way to add more nutrients and flavor to the dish.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the entire casserole, in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Is this casserole spicy?
The recipe, as written, is not spicy. If you want to add some heat, try adding jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar is the classic choice, but you can use any cheese that melts well, like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses.