Name: Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup petite diced yellow onion; 3/4 cup petite diced green bell pepper; 3 cloves garlic, finely minced; 1 pound ground beef (85/15); 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 8 oz. can tomato sauce; 1/2 cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon yellow mustard; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh cracked pepper, to taste; 4 ounces Colby jack cheese, shredded; 16.3 ounce can of refrigerated buttermilk biscuits (8 biscuits); 1 egg (for egg wash)

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 11 reviews

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It takes that nostalgic sloppy joe flavor we all love and transforms it into a cozy, cheesy bake topped with golden buttermilk biscuits. The combination of savory ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, melty cheese, and fluffy biscuits creates a beautiful medley of textures and flavors that’ll have you coming back for seconds — and maybe even thirds. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish truly hits the spot every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a rectangular block of raw ground meat resting on a piece of brown parchment paper. Around it are small white bowls containing various ingredients: one with diced green bell peppers, another with chopped white onions, one with shredded yellow and white cheese, one with a red sauce, one with ketchup, one with mustard, one with a small red paste, one with brown sugar, one with an egg, and one with melted butter. A white plate holds round dough pieces arranged in a circular pattern. Each ingredient displays clear colors and textures, with the white bowls creating a clean contrast against the marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, coming together to deliver a simple yet sensational taste experience. From the aromatic veggies to the rich seasonings and the flaky biscuits on top, each element adds layers of texture and flavor that make this casserole unforgettable.

Olive oil: Used to sauté onions and peppers, adding a delicate fruitiness and aiding in caramelization.
Yellow onion: Gives sweetness and depth when cooked down, forming the flavorful base of the dish.
Green bell pepper: Brings a slight crunch and fresh vegetal note to balance the richness.
Garlic cloves: Finely minced to infuse the whole dish with aromatic warmth.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor, adding a rich, concentrated savoriness.
Ground beef (85/15): The hearty protein that makes the casserole filling and satisfying.
Tomato sauce: Forms the tangy, slightly sweet sauce that binds everything together.
Ketchup: Adds subtle sweetness and a vinegary kick.
Brown sugar: Enhances the sauce with caramel notes and balances acidity.
Worcestershire sauce: Introduces a smoky, umami complexity perfect for sloppy joe sauce.
Yellow mustard: Provides a gentle tang to brighten the mixture.
Colby jack cheese: Melts perfectly to create a creamy, cheesy layer that complements the meat.
Refrigerated buttermilk biscuits: The golden topping that bakes to buttery, flaky perfection.
Egg: Beaten and brushed on biscuits for a shiny, golden crust.
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every flavor in the dish.

How to Make Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Sauté Your Veggies

Begin by heating olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the diced onions and green bell peppers, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step creates a flavorful foundation as the veggies release their natural sweetness and soften perfectly.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Next, stir in finely minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook them together for about a minute until they become aromatic and the tomato paste darkens slightly. This step is key to boosting the depth of flavor in your sloppy joe sauce.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Push the veggies to the edges of the pan to make a space in the center and add the ground beef. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook the meat until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. The browning adds richness and adds texture to your casserole.

Step 4: Combine the Sauce Ingredients

Pour in the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard. Season again with salt and pepper. Stir everything well and lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce thicken and all those juicy flavors meld together over 8 to 10 minutes.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Once thickened, sprinkle the shredded Colby jack cheese evenly over the meat mixture. Top the whole pan with the refrigerated buttermilk biscuits, placing them carefully so they cover the surface. Then, brush the biscuits with your beaten egg wash to ensure a beautiful golden finish.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop the casserole into a preheated 350-degree oven. Bake initially for 15 to 20 minutes until the biscuits are golden brown on top. To avoid overly dark biscuits, tent the casserole loosely with foil and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the biscuits are cooked through and the casserole is bubbling at the edges. Then, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe

A white pot filled with three visible layers: the bottom layer is a thick, rich brown meat sauce spread evenly; on top of that is a layer of shredded yellow cheese scattered across the sauce; the top layer has eight round, pale biscuit dough pieces placed evenly in a circular pattern, each biscuit showing a light yellow shiny butter glaze. The pot sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To amp up your presentation and flavor, consider sprinkling some fresh chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving. A dollop of sour cream or a few slices of pickled jalapeños on the side can add brightness and a subtle kick.

Side Dishes

This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp garden salads, steamed green beans, or roasted broccoli. For a cozy meal, mashed potatoes or a simple coleslaw also make perfect companions, balancing the rich flavors with freshness or creaminess.

Creative Ways to Present

You can also portion the sloppy joe mixture into individual ramekins and top each with a biscuit for charming personal servings. Alternatively, try layering the ingredients in a large baking dish for a communal, family-style feel that everyone will love digging into.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even more enjoyable.

Freezing

For longer storage, your sloppy joe casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap the entire casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a 350-degree oven until warm and bubbly, usually about 15 to 20 minutes. If reheating from frozen, allow extra time. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals, just cover loosely to retain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes for a leaner, lighter version and works well with the seasonings in this recipe. Just be sure to brown it thoroughly for best flavor.

Are refrigerated biscuits necessary?

Using refrigerated buttermilk biscuits is a convenient shortcut since they bake up fluffy and golden, but you can substitute homemade biscuit dough if you prefer.

How spicy is this Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe?

This recipe leans toward mild and comforting, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to amp up the heat if you like things spicy.

Can I prepare the meat mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sloppy joe filling a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just add the biscuits and bake when you’re ready to serve.

What’s the best cheese substitute?

Colby jack is a mild, melty cheese, so cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even mozzarella will work just fine depending on your taste.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a dish that brings together ease, comfort, and loads of flavor in one pan, and this Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe absolutely delivers. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or anytime you want a crowd-pleaser with minimal fuss. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your recipe rotation!