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Sloppy Joe Casserole: A Comfort Food Delight

Get ready for a big, bold, and hearty dish that warms the soul: Sloppy Joe Casserole! Combining the rich flavors of classic Sloppy Joes with the satisfaction of a cheesy pasta bake, this dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Picture tender penne pasta enveloped in a savory meat sauce, topped with gooey cheese—a perfect family dinner that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy! Whether you’re feeding a lively crew or just seeking a quick and delicious meal, this casserole checks all the boxes. Did you know that casseroles are a Southern staple? They bring families together around the dinner table just as Southern Cornbread does! What sets this dish apart is its simplicity; in less than an hour, you can whip up a meal that rivals your favorite restaurant. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this Sloppy Joe Casserole adventure that promises to become a new favorite in your home!
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Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 clove garlic chopped
  • 1 14.5 ounces can petite diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • Salt and ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups frozen whole-kernel corn
  • 1 16 ounces package penne pasta
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it's no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
  • Add Veggies: Stir in the chopped onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and the flavors to meld.
  • Make the Sauce: Add the ketchup, petite diced tomatoes, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  • Cook the Corn and Pasta: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and cook the penne pasta and corn for the instructed time on the package. Once cooked, drain them well.
  • Combine Everything: Add the drained corn, cooked pasta, and half of the shredded cheese to the skillet and mix everything until well combined.
  • Bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes, and then serve warm. Enjoy every cheesy, sloppy bite!
  • What to Serve Sloppy Joe Casserole With
  • Looking to build a complete meal? Pair your Sloppy Joe Casserole with a fresh green salad or some buttery garlic bread for a satisfying dinner spread. You can also opt for roasted vegetables or coleslaw to harmonize the flavors. For those looking to hydrate, a tall glass of iced tea or lemonade would perfectly complement this hearty dish.
  • Top Tips for Perfecting Sloppy Joe Casserole
  • Choose Lean Meat: For a healthier version, choose ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
  • Customize Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Add Spice: If you like it hot, consider adding a pinch of chili powder or hot sauce to kick it up a notch!
  • Storing and Reheating Tips
  • Have leftovers? No problem! Store any uneaten Sloppy Joe Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you’re looking to freeze it, ensure it's completely cooled, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
  • When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish maintains its flavor well, so you can confidently enjoy it days later!
  • Now, roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Your family will love this Sloppy Joe Casserole, making it a weekly staple in no time. Happy baking!