Growing up, my mom had a knack for turning the simplest ingredients into the most delightful meals. One of her creations that always stood out was her Sloppy Joe Casserole. This dish is a wonderful blend of the classic Sloppy Joe flavors, topped with a golden layer of cornbread. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting reminder of home and family gatherings.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the hearty flavors it delivers. Ground beef, onions, and bell peppers form the savory base, enhanced by a sweet and tangy tomato sauce. The cornbread topping adds a perfect contrast with its slightly sweet and fluffy texture. It’s a dish that comes together effortlessly yet feels special enough for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.
One of the things I love about this Sloppy Joe Casserole is its versatility. If you’re looking to make it a bit healthier, you can use lean ground beef or even ground turkey. For those following a gluten-free diet, substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix works beautifully. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a bit of shredded cheese to the cornbread mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also a great recipe to make ahead of time. Simply prepare the beef and cornbread mixture separately, store them in the fridge, and assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve. It’s a lifesaver on those hectic days when you want to put a home-cooked meal on the table with minimal effort.
Every time I make this casserole, I’m reminded of the warmth and comfort of my mom’s kitchen. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household too, bringing smiles and satisfaction with every bite.
Making Sloppy Joe Casserole
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Ingredients
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- ½ diced green bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- ½ diced yellow onion
- 1 egg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (can use gluten-free flour mix)
- ¼ teaspoon optional pepper
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ teaspoon optional salt
Directions
- Set your oven to preheat at 350°F.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef with the onion and bell pepper until the beef is almost browned.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 90 seconds.
- If there’s excess fat, drain the beef mixture.
- Mix in the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly and let it simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- While the beef simmers, in a bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, then blend it into the cornmeal mixture with the oil and milk. Stir until smooth.
- Transfer the beef mixture into an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan.
- Evenly spread the cornbread mixture over the top of the beef.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden around the edges and fully cooked through.
FAQs:
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef. It will be a leaner option and should work well with the other ingredients.
What can I use instead of cornmeal for the topping?
If you don’t have cornmeal, you can use a cornbread mix or even polenta as an alternative for the topping.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and the cornbread batter separately and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, assemble the casserole and bake as directed.
What sides go well with this casserole?
This casserole pairs nicely with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or coleslaw. These sides add a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Bake it first, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef lean
- ½ diced yellow onion
- ½ diced green bell pepper
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 Tablespoon yellow mustard
- ¼ teaspoon optional pepper
- ½ teaspoon optional salt
- 1 cup cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour gluten-free flour mix can be used
- 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 2 Tablespoons oil
- ¾ cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Cook the ground beef with the onion and bell pepper until the beef is mostly browned.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional 90 seconds.
- If necessary, drain the beef before continuing.
- Mix in the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer until the sauce reduces and thickens, about 5 minutes.
- While the beef is cooking, combine the cornmeal, flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk the egg and then add it to the cornmeal mixture along with the oil and milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the beef mixture into an 8x8 or 9x9 inch baking pan.
- Spread the cornbread mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake in the oven for 30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden around the edges and fully cooked through.
