The Ultimate Cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole with Pasta: A Family-Favorite Weeknight Dinner
This Cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole masterfully combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, a flavorful blend of onions and bell peppers, the signature tang of Manwich sauce, and a luscious double layer of creamy Velveeta cheese and melty Colby-jack cheese. It’s a truly irresistible and comforting twist on the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich, transforming a beloved childhood favorite into an effortless one-dish meal perfect for any night of the week.
If you’re a fan of the classic sloppy joe sandwich – that wonderfully messy, saucy, and savory comfort food – then prepare to meet your new favorite dinner recipe. This cheesy sloppy joe casserole takes all the flavors you love and bakes them into a convenient, family-friendly pasta dish that’s less messy and even more satisfying.
Just like our popular pizza pasta casserole recipe and comforting cheeseburger casserole recipe, this sloppy joe casserole with Manwich sauce takes a cherished family dinner concept and reimagines it as a hearty, baked casserole. It offers the same iconic taste of a sloppy joe but in a form that’s much easier to serve and enjoy, especially for little hands.
Looking for other exciting variations on traditional sloppy joes? Be sure to try these incredibly tasty Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes in the crockpot for a slow-cooked delight, or whip up my super easy one-pot sloppy joe pasta for a quick stovetop alternative.
And yes, you read that right – this incredible ground beef casserole also features delicious noodles! The addition of pasta transforms the sloppy joe experience into a complete meal, adding substance and making it even more appealing to pasta lovers. You’ll have a satisfying dinner on the table in record time, and this dish is guaranteed to be a huge hit with your entire family, from the pickiest eaters to the most seasoned foodies.
With a bit of advance prep, like chopping your onions and bell peppers ahead of time, this easy recipe comes together with minimal effort. This makes it an absolutely fantastic choice for those busy weeknights when you need a hearty, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s the kind of comforting casserole that brings everyone to the table, eager for a second helping.
Once you give this easy ground beef casserole recipe a try, we’re confident it will quickly earn a permanent spot on your weekly dinner rotations. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting, cheesy, and deeply flavorful experience that simplifies your week and pleases every palate.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole
This Sloppy Joe Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a solution for busy evenings and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe book:
- A Tasty, Less Messy Twist on a Classic: Say goodbye to crumbling buns and saucy hands! This casserole delivers all the nostalgic, savory flavors of a sloppy joe sandwich but in a neat, easy-to-eat baked dish that’s perfect for all ages.
- Simple, Easy-to-Find Ingredients: You won’t need any obscure ingredients for this recipe. Everything you need is readily available at your local grocery store, making your shopping trip a breeze.
- Effortless Preparation: This dish is designed for simplicity. With minimal hands-on time and straightforward steps, it’s a fantastic option for even novice cooks or those hectic weeknights.
- Loaded with Melty Cheese: Featuring not one, but two types of cheese – creamy Velveeta blended into the sauce and bubbly shredded cheese on top – every bite is pure cheesy perfection.
- Excellent for Meal Prep & Freezing: Whether you want to prep it ahead for a busy week or freeze individual portions for later, this casserole holds up beautifully, making it an incredibly versatile option for meal planning.
- Unrivaled Comfort Food: There’s something inherently comforting about a warm, savory, and cheesy casserole. This sloppy joe pasta bake hits all the right notes, providing a satisfying and soul-warming meal.
Ingredients for Your Sloppy Joe Pasta Bake
This section includes detailed ingredient notes and possible substitution options to help you customize your casserole. For all precise measurements, a complete list of ingredients, and full step-by-step instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card located at the very end of this post.
- Pasta: Any medium-sized pasta shape works perfectly. Elbow macaroni, rotini, penne, or even shells are excellent choices. Cook it al dente to ensure it holds up well during baking.
- Ground Beef: We recommend using lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10) to minimize excess grease. Its rich flavor forms the hearty base of our sloppy joe mixture.
- Onion: A medium yellow or white onion, finely chopped, provides a foundational aromatic flavor that’s essential to the sloppy joe taste.
- Green Bell Pepper: Chopped green bell pepper adds a touch of freshness, a subtle crunch, and a classic savory note that complements the ground beef and sauce.
- Manwich Sauce: This canned sloppy joe sauce is the secret to getting that authentic, sweet and tangy sloppy joe flavor with absolute ease. Feel free to use your favorite brand or even a homemade version.
- Velveeta Cheese: Cubed Velveeta is crucial for the incredible creaminess it adds to the sloppy joe mixture, ensuring a smooth, rich, and velvety texture throughout the casserole.
- Shredded Cheese: A generous amount of shredded Colby-jack or cheddar cheese creates a golden, bubbly, and irresistible topping that melts beautifully over the pasta bake.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley is an optional but highly recommended garnish, adding a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous finish to the rich dish.
Popular Substitutions & Additions to Customize Your Casserole
One of the best things about casseroles is their adaptability. Feel free to experiment with these popular substitutions and additions to tailor this Sloppy Joe Casserole to your family’s preferences:
- Pasta Power: While elbow macaroni is classic, you have many options! Experiment with other pasta shapes like rotini, penne, medium shells, or rigatoni. For a healthier twist, use whole wheat pasta, or try hidden veggie pasta to sneak in extra nutrients without anyone noticing. All these options work wonderfully and absorb the savory sauce beautifully.
- Meat Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of ground beef or want a lighter version, ground turkey or ground chicken are excellent substitutes. Ensure to season them well as they can be milder in flavor. For a vegetarian option, consider using cooked lentils, black beans, or a plant-based ground crumble, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
- Cheese Choices: Don’t limit yourself to Colby-jack or cheddar for the topping! Other excellent melting cheeses include Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack if you like a little heat. For even more depth, a sprinkle of smoked gouda or provolone could be a delightful addition.
- Veggies Galore: Beyond the standard onions and bell peppers, feel free to toss in other diced vegetables. Corn kernels (fresh or frozen), diced carrots, mushrooms, or even a handful of fresh spinach wilted into the beef mixture can boost nutrition and flavor.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture, or incorporate a diced jalapeño alongside the bell peppers for a bolder flavor. A dash of hot sauce in the Manwich can also provide a subtle warmth.
- Flavor Enhancers: A teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, a splash of apple cider vinegar, or a squeeze of mustard (Dijon or yellow) can deepen the savory notes of the sloppy joe sauce. A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can also be added for extra aromatic depth.
- Crunchy Toppings: For added texture, consider topping the casserole with crushed Ritz crackers mixed with a little melted butter, crispy fried onions, or panko breadcrumbs during the last 10 minutes of baking.
How To Make Cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole
This section provides detailed instructions on how to prepare this delicious casserole, complete with step-by-step photos to guide you through the process. For the full printable recipe card, including exact measurements and nutritional information, please see the dedicated recipe card below.
Step 1: Prepare Your Pasta. Cook your chosen pasta shape according to the package directions, ensuring it remains al dente. This is crucial as the pasta will continue to cook slightly in the oven. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly, return it to the pot, and toss with a small amount of olive oil to prevent the noodles from sticking together. Cover the pot and set it aside while you prepare the meat mixture. Preheat your oven to 350° F (175° C) as well.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Sauté Veggies. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess grease to prevent the casserole from becoming oily. Add the chopped onions and green bell peppers to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for an additional 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the peppers soften slightly.
Step 3: Stir in the Sloppy Joe Sauce. Pour in the Manwich sloppy joe sauce, stirring it well to combine with the browned beef, onions, and peppers. Allow it to simmer for a minute or two to let the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Incorporate the Creamy Velveeta and Pasta. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the sloppy joe mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 3 minutes, or until the Velveeta has completely melted and is fully incorporated, creating a rich, creamy sauce. Once the cheese is smooth, gently stir in the cooked pasta until it’s evenly coated with the cheesy sloppy joe mixture.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Transfer the sloppy joe and pasta mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly. Generously top the entire casserole with the shredded Colby-jack or cheddar cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish. Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making for cleaner portions. Serve warm, and for an extra touch of freshness and color, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Enjoy this hearty and comforting Cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole!
What to Serve with Cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole
This hearty Cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole is a meal in itself, but it truly shines when paired with simple, complementary sides. Here are some of our favorite ideas to round out your dinner:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad is the perfect counterpoint to the rich and savory casserole. My favorite Olive Garden-style salad with a zesty vinaigrette would be a fantastic choice.
- Green Vegetables: Balance the meal with a healthy green veggie. Steamed or roasted broccoli, sautéed green beans, or this flavorful pan-seared asparagus with soy sauce and garlic are all excellent options. For a creamier side, try this indulgent creamed spinach.
- Breads & Rolls: If you find yourself missing the bun from a traditional sloppy joe sandwich, a soft bread side is a great addition. Warm potato rolls or buttery crescent rolls are always a hit with my family. Garlic bread or even a simple piece of crusty bread would also be delicious for soaking up any extra sauce.
- Simple Corn on the Cob: During warmer months, grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds a sweet and juicy contrast.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw can add a nice texture and refreshing flavor to your meal.
Does your family enjoy something sweet after dinner? We certainly do! One of my favorite desserts to pair with this baked Sloppy Joe Casserole is this decadent Oreo poke cake. It’s chocolatey, moist, and perfectly indulgent. If you’re leaning more towards a tart, fruity flavor for your dessert, you absolutely must try these incredibly easy 3-ingredient lemon cake mix cookies. They offer a bright and refreshing end to a hearty meal.
Storage and Freezing Tips for Cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole
One of the many reasons this Cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole is a staple in our home is its fantastic make-ahead and storage capabilities. It’s truly a gift to your future self!
Freezer Meal Perfection: This recipe makes an excellent freezer meal. Once your sloppy joe noodle casserole has been fully baked and allowed to cool completely to room temperature, you can prepare it for freezing. Wrap it tightly in a double layer of plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, or transfer individual portions to freezer-safe airtight containers. It can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 6 weeks. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it following the instructions below.
Refrigerating Leftovers: If you have any glorious leftovers, ensure they are stored in a sealed, air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures freshness and food safety.
Reheating Instructions:
- Oven: To reheat larger portions or an entire casserole, preheat your oven to 350° F (175° C). Cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent drying out and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through and bubbly.
- Microwave: For smaller, individual portions, transfer the casserole to a microwave-safe dish. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until it’s piping hot.
Make Ahead Instructions for a Stress-Free Dinner
Planning ahead can make weeknight dinners infinitely easier. This Cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole is ideal for advance preparation:
You can prepare the entire casserole right up until the point it’s ready to bake. After combining the pasta and sloppy joe mixture and transferring it to the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap (and an additional layer of foil for extra protection). Refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes while your oven preheats to 350° F (175° C). Then, simply bake as directed in the recipe card below, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if the casserole is still very cold.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about making this Cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole:
Absolutely! While Manwich is a classic choice for its signature flavor, feel free to use any of your favorite canned sloppy joe sauces. You can even make your own homemade sloppy joe sauce from scratch if you prefer, adjusting seasonings to taste. Just ensure you have enough sauce to generously coat the beef and pasta.
Yes, easily! To make this dish vegetarian, simply substitute the ground beef with an equal amount of cooked brown or green lentils, or your favorite plant-based ground crumble. The Manwich sauce and cheeses will still provide plenty of flavor and richness.
Making this casserole gluten-free is quite simple. The primary ingredient to swap is the pasta. Replace regular pasta with a good quality gluten-free pasta (such as those made from brown rice, corn, or lentils). Most Manwich sauces, Velveeta, and fresh ingredients (like ground beef, onions, and bell peppers) are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure, especially for processed sauces.
A standard 9×13 inch baking dish (or a 3-quart casserole dish) is ideal for this recipe, comfortably holding all the ingredients and allowing for even baking and a beautiful cheese topping.
As written, this sloppy joe casserole is not spicy, making it very kid-friendly. The flavor is a classic sweet and tangy sloppy joe. However, if you prefer a little heat, you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or include a finely diced jalapeño pepper with the onions and bell peppers during cooking.
More Delicious Dinner Casserole Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of easy, comforting casserole dinners, be sure to explore these other fantastic recipes:
- Crunchy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
- Hearty Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
- Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake
- Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Author: Jaclyn
10 minutes
35 minutes
45 minutes
8
Saved!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces uncooked pasta
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 medium green bell pepper chopped
- 1 and ½ 16-ounce cans Manwich
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese cubed
- 1 ½ cups shredded Colby-jack or cheddar cheese
- fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350° F (175° C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
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In a large pot, cook the pasta al dente according to the directions on the package. Drain well, return to pot, and sprinkle with a drizzle of olive oil to help keep the noodles from sticking together. Cover and set aside.
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Brown the ground beef on the stovetop in a large pan over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once no pink remains, drain the excess grease thoroughly. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers to the pan with the beef. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions begin to turn translucent and the peppers have softened.
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Stir in the Manwich sloppy joe sauce, ensuring it is well combined with the beef and vegetables.
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Add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the sloppy joe mixture. Lower the heat to medium and cook, stirring frequently, until the Velveeta has completely melted and is fully incorporated into the sauce (this should take about 3 minutes).
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Gently stir in the cooked pasta until it is evenly coated with the cheesy sloppy joe mixture.
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Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top generously with the shredded Colby-jack or cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
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Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving warm. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
Make-ahead: To prepare in advance, assemble the casserole completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and refrigerate for up to 3 days before baking. When ready to enjoy, let the casserole sit on the countertop at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes while your oven heats up, then bake as directed in the recipe card, possibly adding an extra 5-10 minutes if starting from cold.
Nutrition
Serving: 1g
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Calories: 595kcal
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