Delicious Homemade Comfort Food You’ll Love Cooking

As I opened my pantry, a solitary can of Manwich stared back at me, daring me to transform it into something delicious. That’s when I decided to create a Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich, a dish that’s not only a nostalgic reminder of childhood but also a perfect solution for busy weeknights. This easy-to-make casserole brings together the comforting flavors of Sloppy Joes with the heartiness of a baked dish, making it a true crowd-pleaser. With minimal prep time and ingredients you likely already have on hand, it’s perfect for those who crave home-cooked meals without the fuss. Plus, it’s great for meal prepping or serving a hungry family. Are you ready to give this twist on a classic a try?

Why is this casserole a must-try?

Comforting nostalgia: This Sloppy Joe Casserole brings back childhood memories while being a fresh take on a beloved classic.

Effortless prep: With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something satisfying without the hassle.

Family-friendly: It’s a meal that pleases all ages, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Meal prep superstar: Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a great option for lunch the next day. Don't forget to check out our guide on easy meal prepping for more ideas!

Flavor-packed: The unique blend of Manwich and casserole ingredients delivers a rich and robust taste that will impress your guests.

Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich Ingredients

For the Casserole

• Ground beef – a classic protein choice that adds heartiness to your Sloppy Joe Casserole.
• Manwich sauce – this canned delight provides the rich, tangy base for your dish.
• Onion – finely chopped, it adds depth and sweetness when sautéed.
• Garlic – minced garlic enhances the flavor profile, bringing a fragrant aroma.
• Bell pepper – diced for a colorful crunch that complements the smooth texture.
• Canned diced tomatoes – these add moisture and a touch of acidity to balance the flavors.
• Corn – sweet corn adds a pop of flavor and fun texture to each bite.

For the Topping

• Tortilla chips – crushed, these provide a delightful crunch on top, elevating your casserole.
• Shredded cheese – a generous layer of your favorite cheese creates a melty, gooey finish that brings everything together.
• Green onions – sliced, they give a fresh, vibrant garnish that enhances the visual appeal and flavor.

With these simple ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a delicious Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich that your family will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich

Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until no pink remains. The beef should be nicely browned and crumbly. Drain the excess fat if necessary, and prepare to season it with the onions and garlic for enhanced flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Veggies
Add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This step will infuse your Sloppy Joe Casserole with savory depth and an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Next, stir in 1 can of Manwich sauce, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 diced bell pepper, and 1 cup of corn into the skillet. Mix everything together well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes over low heat. The mixture should become bubbly and meld together beautifully, creating a rich sauce for your casserole.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread the beef and veggie mixture evenly. This forms the flavorful base of your Sloppy Joe Casserole, ready to support a delicious topping that will add crunch and melt.

Step 5: Add Toppings
Crush 2 cups of tortilla chips and sprinkle them evenly over the beef mixture in the baking dish. Then generously layer 2 cups of shredded cheese on top of the chips for a gooey finish. This texture contrast will elevate your casserole, making every bite delightful.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the assembled casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a golden crust. The aroma will be irresistible, beckoning everyone to gather around for a comforting meal.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
After you remove the casserole from the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch and serve hot. This final step enhances the visual appeal of your Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich while providing a delicious flavor boost that family and friends will love.

What to Serve with Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich

The rich and gooey Sloppy Joe Casserole is just begging for the perfect partners to create a satisfying meal experience.

• Crispy Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with mixed greens and a zesty dressing complements the dish's richness, adding a refreshing crunch.

• Garlic Bread: Savory garlic bread serves as a perfect utensil for scooping up the casserole. Its buttery, crunchy texture contrasts delightfully with the creamy dish.

• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies, like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, add a nutritious and vibrant side that balances the casserole's flavors.

• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can cut through the richness of the casserole, offering a cool and crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the warm, gooey dish.

• Sweet Corn Muffins: Slightly sweet corn muffins can elevate the meal with their comforting flavor, providing a delightful twist that pairs well with the savory elements of the casserole.

• Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp, with its sweet and buttery topping, brings a cozy end to the meal, reminiscent of home cooking.

With these delightful pairings, your Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich transforms into a complete, heartwarming dinner experience that everyone will love!

Make Ahead Options

Making this Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your weeknight dinners! To prep in advance, you can brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours before assembling the casserole. Store the beef mixture covered in the refrigerator, ensuring it stays fresh and flavorful. When you’re ready to serve, simply follow the final steps: preheat your oven, layer the mixture with tortilla chips and cheese, and bake as directed for a delightful meal that’s just as scrumptious as if you made it that day. This make-ahead strategy offers a delicious home-cooked dish with minimal fuss, perfect for busy home cooks!

Expert Tips for Sloppy Joe Casserole

• Choose the Right Meat: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but feel free to swap it out for ground turkey or chicken to fit your dietary needs.

• Avoid Oily Casserole: Make sure to drain excess grease after browning the beef; this keeps the casserole from becoming too oily and ensures a better texture.

• Pre-Cook Pasta: If using pasta in the recipe, consider boiling it until just al dente before mixing it in; this helps prevent overcooking while baking and keeps the noodles firm.

• Flavor Boost: To enhance the flavor of your Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or your favorite hot sauce while mixing in the ingredients.

• Customize Your Toppings: Experiment with different types of cheese or add crushed tortilla chips, breadcrumbs, or even crushed corn chips for a unique twist on texture.

• Check for Browning: If you like a crispy topping, uncover the casserole for the last few minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown nicely and form a delicious crust.

Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich Variations

Transform this dish to suit your taste buds with these fun and easy ideas!

• Low-Carb: Swap out regular pasta for cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles to lighten up and delight those watching their carbs.

• Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach before baking for more layers of flavor and nutrition. It’s a tasty way to sneak in extra veggies!

• Spicy Kick: Bring the heat by stirring in red pepper flakes or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for a zesty twist. Your taste buds will thank you for the extra flavor!

• Cheesy Delight: Mix in a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a creamy, indulgent casserole. The more cheese, the merrier, right?

• Taco Twist: Amp up the flavor profile by adding taco seasoning instead of basic salt and pepper. You’ll create a delightful fusion of Sloppy Joes and tacos!

• No Meat: For a plant-based option, replace ground beef with lentils or shredded jackfruit. The savory flavors will still shine through beautifully.

• Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking for a convenient meal later. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!

• Texture Variety: Top your casserole with crushed corn chips or seasoned breadcrumbs instead of tortilla chips for a unique crunch that will surprise your guests.

These variations are perfect for personalizing your Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich, making it a fun and delicious dish every time!

How to Store and Freeze Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich

Fridge: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Make sure it’s cooled down to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: If you want to save it for later, freeze the casserole in a tightly sealed container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it!

Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can add a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Serving: This comforting Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich is perfect for meal prep, so feel free to make it ahead and save time on those busy weeknights!

Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ripeness for my ingredients?
Absolutely! For this Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich, select firm bell peppers without any dark spots. The onions should be crisp and smell pungent, indicating freshness. If you're using canned tomatoes, check the expiration date and ensure the can is not dented or bulging.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of the casserole?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before sealing. To reheat, simply cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, usually about 20 minutes.

Can I freeze Sloppy Joe Casserole?
Yes! To freeze, wait until the casserole has cooled completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, label it with the date. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

What should I do if my casserole turns out too oily?
Very! A common issue might be excess grease from the beef. To troubleshoot, ensure you drain the fat well after browning. If it's already baked, you can gently blot the top with a paper towel to absorb some oil, or serve with a side salad for balance.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! This casserole can be made gluten-free by swapping regular pasta for gluten-free alternatives. If preparing for a family member with allergies, make sure to double-check the ingredients in the Manwich sauce and opt for low-sodium options if necessary. For pets, it's best to keep them away from the dish, especially due to the onion and garlic.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if you’re putting it in the oven straight from the fridge. It’s a great way to save time on busy nights!