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 Cornbread Casserole brings together the bold flavors of savory ground beef, tangy ketchup, and sweet brown sugar, all topped with a golden, fluffy cornbread layer. It’s the perfect dish when you’re craving something hearty and comforting without all the fuss.

Sloppy Joes are a classic American favorite, but let’s face it—sometimes they can be a bit messy. That’s where this casserole comes in. It takes all the flavors you love from a traditional Sloppy Joe and turns it into a baked dish that’s easy to serve and even easier to enjoy. You can whip this up year-round, and it’s just as fitting for a casual family dinner as it is for a potluck with friends.

Why you’ll love this Sloppy Joe Casserole

Simple to Make:
With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole comes together quickly. It’s a one-dish wonder that doesn’t require much effort, but the results are impressive.
Delicious Comfort Food:
The combination of savory beef, tangy sauce, and sweet cornbread topping is pure comfort food. It’s like a warm hug in a dish, perfect for those chilly nights or whenever you need a little pick-me-up.
Versatile:
This recipe is easily adaptable to suit your taste. Whether you want to spice it up with some extra heat or add in different veggies, you can make it your own.

American Favorite

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. There’s something so satisfying about the mix of flavors and textures. But let’s be real, 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. It’s now a favorite in my household, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Ingredients Needed for Sloppy Joe Casserole

Ground Beef: The heart of the dish. I use 1 1/2 pounds to make sure there’s enough beefy goodness in every bite. You can also swap it out for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative if you prefer.
Onion & Green Bell Pepper: These veggies add flavor and a bit of texture. They cook down and blend beautifully with the sauce. If you want a little more kick, try using a red or poblano pepper instead.
Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the tangy and savory elements of the dish. Feel free to adjust the amount if you like it more or less sweet.
Worcestershire Sauce: A couple of tablespoons of this gives the beef mixture a deeper, more complex flavor. It’s one of those ingredients that really rounds out the dish.
Yellow Mustard & Ketchup: These classic condiments bring the tang and the familiar Sloppy Joe taste. I’ve adjusted the amounts to give the sauce a richer, tangier flavor.
Water: Helps to loosen up the mixture and allows all the ingredients to meld together. Add a little more if you want a saucier consistency.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out all the flavors. I’ve measured these out to ensure a balanced taste.
Corn Muffin Mix: I use Jiffy for the cornbread topping—it’s quick, easy, and gives that sweet, tender top layer. You can also try my homemade cornbread recipe if you’re feeling a little extra!
Milk, Vegetable Oil, & Egg: These are the essentials for the cornbread mix. They ensure the topping is moist and fluffy, with just the right texture.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkled on top at the end, the cheese melts into the cornbread, adding an extra layer of gooey deliciousness.

How to make Sloppy Joe Casserole

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

Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned.

Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened

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

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.

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.

Comfort Foods

Skillet Cornbread
White Chicken Chili

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.