Description
This Quick Sloppy Joe Pasta Casserole combines the classic flavors of sloppy joes with a comforting baked pasta dish. Ground beef simmers in a tangy tomato-based sauce with onions, garlic, and spices, then gets mixed with elbow macaroni and topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Baked to bubbly perfection, this casserole is an easy, family-friendly meal perfect for busy weeknights.
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 and set aside.
- Prepare the sloppy joe mixture: In a large skillet or pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Combine sauce ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, stirring occasionally.
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Assemble the casserole: In a large casserole dish (9×13 inches), combine the cooked pasta with the sloppy joe mixture. Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Add cheese topping: Top the casserole with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Optional broil: If you prefer a crispy top, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time.
- Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish and enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this casserole gluten-free.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- If you prefer a cheesier casserole, increase the cheese quantity or add Parmesan on top.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
