Name: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1/2 cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon yellow mustard; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough or crescent roll dough; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Comfort food doesn’t get more nostalgic than a good old-fashioned Sloppy Joe. But what if you took that saucy, meaty goodness and turned it into a bubbling, cheesy, golden-topped casserole? That’s exactly what this Sloppy Joe Casserole is all about. It’s a warm hug in a baking dish, with layers of bold, savory flavor and just the right amount of crunch and creaminess.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, feeding a crowd, or whenever you need a dish that feels both hearty and fun. It combines the best parts of a Sloppy Joe sandwich – the rich meat filling and soft bread – and transforms them into a baked dish that requires less mess and more reward. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, making it a family favorite that never gets boring.

Why You’ll Love This Sloppy Joe Casserole

This casserole is fast, filling, and super family-friendly. It hits every note of comfort food with its tangy-sweet meat mixture, melty cheese, and golden crust. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, but crowd-pleasing enough for potlucks and parties. You can prep it in advance, double it for leftovers, and even sneak in some veggies for a more balanced bite.

Can I Use Store-Bought Sloppy Joe Sauce?

Absolutely! If you’re looking to save time, using canned sloppy joe sauce is totally fine. But if you want to control the sweetness and spice levels, making your own sauce gives you that flexibility. Either way, the end result is a cheesy, baked twist on a classic favorite that will have everyone going back for seconds.

Ingredients for the Sloppy Joe Casserole

The heart of this casserole lies in its meaty, tangy filling, but each ingredient plays a key role in creating balance and texture.

Ground beef
Onion
Bell pepper
Garlic
Tomato paste
Ketchup
Worcestershire sauce
Yellow mustard
Brown sugar
Salt & pepper
Biscuits or crescent roll dough
Cheddar cheese
Butter

How To Make the Sloppy Joe Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Meat and Veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Add in diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Stir in tomato paste, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and brown sugar. Let the mixture simmer for 5–10 minutes until it thickens and melds into a sweet and tangy filling. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Layer the Base

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, spread the cooked meat mixture evenly. Top with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese for that melty goodness.

Step 4: Add the Biscuit Topping

Lay your biscuit or crescent dough over the top. You can place whole biscuits for a pull-apart effect or unroll crescent dough for full coverage. Brush the tops with melted butter to help them brown beautifully.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for about 20–25 minutes, or until the biscuits are puffed and golden and the filling is bubbling. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve and Store This Sloppy Joe Casserole

This casserole serves around 6 hearty portions, making it perfect for a family dinner with maybe even a lunch leftover or two. Serve it hot straight from the oven, with a spoonful of extra cheese on top if you’re feeling indulgent. For storing, keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven.

To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, reheat in the oven until warmed through and bubbly.

What to Serve With Sloppy Joe Casserole?

Fresh Garden Salad

The richness of the casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp salad tossed in vinaigrette.

Pickles or Pickled Veggies

A tangy bite of pickle cuts right through the cheesy, meaty flavors.

Corn on the Cob

Whether grilled or boiled, corn adds natural sweetness and crunch to your plate.

Garlic Green Beans

Sautéed green beans with garlic offer a savory, tender contrast.

Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Their hint of sweetness balances the savory and spicy Sloppy Joe filling.

Coleslaw

Creamy coleslaw offers a cool, crunchy bite to round out your meal.

Mac and Cheese

Because who can say no to double the comfort?

Roasted Broccoli

A healthier side that roasts up nutty and slightly crispy, adding great texture.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If hearty bakes are your thing, you’ll love diving into these other comfort-packed dishes:

Try the No Peek Chicken Casserole for an easy, set-it-and-forget-it dinner.
Enjoy the cozy flavors of our Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole.
Spice things up with the cheesy layers in Mexican White Trash Casserole.
Go classic with the Amish Country Casserole.
Or indulge in Pepperoni Pizza Tater Tot Casserole for a playful twist.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use crescent rolls or biscuits? Did you add a little heat to the sauce? I love hearing how you make it your own.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food recipes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new favorite go-to dishes!

Conclusion

Sloppy Joe Casserole is everything you love about the original sandwich but baked into a crave-worthy one-pan dish. It’s cozy, satisfying, and just different enough to shake up your usual dinner routine. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight, a potluck, or simply because you need a little nostalgia, this casserole is a keeper. Happy baking!