Description
This Quick Sloppy Joe Pasta Casserole combines the classic flavors of sloppy joes with tender pasta, baked to perfection with a cheesy topping. It’s a comforting, family-friendly dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta and Cheese
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or any short pasta
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside to use in the casserole.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a little olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish less greasy.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant, enhancing the flavor base of the sauce.
- Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce: Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper into the beef mixture. Simmer for 5-7 minutes on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld together.
- Preheat Oven: While the sauce simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, mix the cooked pasta thoroughly with the sloppy joe sauce so that every piece is coated evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
- Optional Broiling: For a crispy cheese topping, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to sit for 5 minutes. This resting time helps the casserole set, making it easier to serve.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve the casserole hot for a comforting and hearty meal.
Notes
- Use any short pasta shape if elbow macaroni is not available.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce if you like a bit of heat.
- Make ahead: Prepare the casserole up to step 7, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
