If you’ve ever loved the saucy, comforting taste of a classic sloppy joe but wished it was easier to share or serve at a family gathering, then the Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This dish transforms the beloved sloppy joe into a warm, cheesy, and hearty casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. With the bold flavors of Manwich sauce, a medley of tender vegetables, melty cheddar, and fluffy biscuit topping, every bite feels like a warm hug on a plate. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll wonder why it’s taken so long to combine all these delicious elements into one simple, soul-satisfying casserole.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich Recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a crucial part. From the savory ground beef to the cheesy biscuit topping, every component adds a layer of texture, color, and flavor that makes this casserole so irresistible.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The hearty base bringing rich flavor and satisfying protein.
- Manwich Sloppy Joe sauce (1 can, 15 oz): Adds that classic tangy and sweet sloppy joe taste effortlessly.
- Frozen mixed vegetables (2 cups): Corn, peas, and carrots add color, nutrition, and a gentle sweetness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy goodness layered throughout.
- Refrigerated biscuit dough (1 can, 16.3 oz) or 6 large biscuits: Creates a golden, fluffy topping that you just can’t resist.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For browning the beef evenly and adding depth of flavor.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Enhances the savory notes without overpowering.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Adds subtle sweetness and aromatic warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance all flavors perfectly.
- Chopped parsley (optional): For a fresh burst of color and mild herbal brightness.
How to Make Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 6 to 8 minutes. Don’t rush this step because perfectly browned beef develops deep flavor and texture. When it’s ready, drain any excess grease to keep things from getting too oily.
Step 2: Add Manwich Sauce and Vegetables
Once your beef is browned, stir in the Manwich Sloppy Joe sauce along with the frozen mixed vegetables. This blend softens as it cooks, marrying the classic sauce tang with the natural sweetness and pop of color from the veggies. Let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes so the flavors meld nicely.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Now is the time to sprinkle in your garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. These simple seasonings elevate the overall dish, adding a subtle depth of flavor that ties everything together beautifully.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread your beef and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom. Scatter half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top to create a melty, cheesy layer that will hold the biscuit topping in place.
Step 5: Add Biscuit Topping and Cheese
Break up the biscuit dough into pieces or arrange whole biscuits spaced evenly on top of the cheese layer. Make sure they cover the entire surface for that classic biscuit crust. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the biscuits so it melts into a gorgeous, golden crust while baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop your casserole into the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when those biscuits are gloriously golden brown and cooked through. Let it cool a few minutes before serving so the layers set just right.
How to Serve Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a fresh, vibrant touch that brightens every bite visually and taste-wise. Feel free to get creative with garnishes like sliced green onions or a dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
This casserole is pretty hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or a simple coleslaw balances the richness and adds refreshing crispness. Roasted or steamed veggies are also an excellent way to round out the meal without overpowering the casserole’s comforting flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For family dinners or casual entertaining, serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for that warm, family-style feel. Alternatively, scoop individual portions into small ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for charming, personalized servings that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover leftover casserole tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and store in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners during the week.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze the Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich Recipe for up to two months. Wrap it securely with aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or place the entire casserole back into a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 15-20 minutes to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven glow without drying out the biscuits.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works great as a leaner alternative and still pairs wonderfully with the Manwich sauce. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust seasoning if needed.
What if I don’t have refrigerated biscuit dough?
No worries! You can use homemade biscuit dough, crescent roll dough, or even puff pastry sheets for a different but equally delicious topping. Each offers a unique texture and flavor twist.
Is this recipe spicy?
By itself, the Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich Recipe is mild and kid-friendly. If you want to add some heat, consider tossing in a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes when seasoning the beef mixture.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to include diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the beef to ensure they cook properly.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This casserole comfortably serves six hungry people, making it a perfect option for families or small gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich Recipe truly takes comfort food to a whole new level with its cheesy layers, hearty filling, and biscuit topping that everyone will love. Once you taste how easy and delicious this casserole is, it’s bound to become a go-to for busy nights and family meals. So, grab your ingredients and give it a try—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!
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Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich is a comforting and hearty family dinner that combines savory ground beef cooked in classic Manwich sauce with mixed vegetables, topped with cheesy biscuits baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) Manwich Sloppy Joe sauce
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (like corn, peas, carrots)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough or 6 large biscuits
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking your casserole.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and brown the ground beef, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy.
- Add Sauce and Vegetables: Stir in the Manwich Sloppy Joe sauce and frozen mixed vegetables into the skillet. Cook for an additional 3–4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly and the flavors to combine well.
- Season the Mixture: Season the beef and vegetable mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper according to your taste preferences, mixing thoroughly.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly to create an even base layer for the casserole.
- Add Cheese and Biscuit Topping: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the meat mixture. Next, place pieces of biscuit dough or arrange the whole biscuits on top of the cheese layer. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the biscuits.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and fully cooked through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to set. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh touch.
Notes
- For added flavor, sauté diced onions and bell peppers with the beef during the browning step.
- You can substitute crescent roll dough for biscuits if you prefer a flakier topping.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
