This Sloppy Joe Casserole takes all the nostalgic flavors of classic sloppy joes and turns them into a warm, cheesy, hearty baked dinner.
Made with seasoned ground beef, tender bowtie pasta, rich sloppy joe sauce, creamy Velveeta, and melted Colby-jack cheese, this casserole is cozy, filling, and perfect for busy weeknights.
It’s kid-friendly, easy to make, and baked until hot, bubbly, and golden.
Why You’ll Love This Sloppy Joe Casserole
This recipe is simple, comforting, and packed with flavor.
You’ll love it because it uses easy ingredients, comes together quickly, and turns a family favorite sandwich into a cheesy pasta casserole. It’s also great for make-ahead meals, potlucks, and leftovers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup yellow onion, diced
- 24 ounces original Manwich sauce
- 15 ounces original Manwich sauce
- 12 ounces farfalle or bowtie pasta, cooked al dente
- 8 ounces Velveeta, shredded
- 8 ounces Colby-jack cheese, shredded
How to Make Sloppy Joe Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium-high heat until the beef is browned and the onion is softened.
Drain excess grease.
Step 3: Add Sauce and Pasta
Add the Manwich sauce, cooked bowtie pasta, and shredded Velveeta.
Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Spread evenly.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle shredded Colby-jack cheese over the top.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 25 minutes, until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted.
Serve warm.
Recipe Tips
Cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t become too soft while baking.
Brown the ground beef ahead of time to make dinner even faster.
Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting texture.
If you want extra flavor, add diced bell peppers or garlic while cooking the beef.
Easy Variations
Swap ground beef for ground turkey, ground chicken, or sausage.
Use penne, rotini, shells, or elbow macaroni instead of bowtie pasta.
Try cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend on top.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, mushrooms, or zucchini.
Use spicy sloppy joe sauce for a little heat.
What to Serve With Sloppy Joe Casserole
This casserole pairs well with:
- coleslaw
- Caesar salad
- corn casserole
- garlic bread
- cornbread
- roasted vegetables
- green beans
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can You Freeze Sloppy Joe Casserole?
Yes. Let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or place in a freezer-safe container.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if chilled.
What pasta works best?
Bowtie, penne, rotini, shells, or elbow pasta all work well.
Can I use homemade sloppy joe sauce?
Absolutely. Homemade sauce works great.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes. Bell peppers, onions, corn, and mushrooms are delicious additions.
Final Thoughts
This Sloppy Joe Casserole is cheesy, saucy, hearty, and full of classic comfort-food flavor. It’s an easy family dinner that turns a childhood favorite into a warm baked pasta meal everyone will love.