If you’re a fan of Sloppy Joes, get ready for a game-changer! This Sloppy Joe Casserole takes the beloved flavors of the classic sandwich and transforms them into a mouthwatering casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and comforting. Plus, it’s sweet, savory, and packed with flavor, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or bringing it to a potluck or party, this Sloppy Joe Casserole is guaranteed to impress!

Why You’ll Love Sloppy Joe Casserole

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, this casserole comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast.
Delicious Flavor: Packed with the classic flavors of Sloppy Joes – tangy tomato sauce, savory ground beef, and melty cheese – this casserole is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty and comforting dish. It’s a great way to sneak some veggies into your family’s diet, thanks to the bell peppers and onions in the filling.
Perfect for Potlucks: Whether you’re hosting a potluck or attending one, this casserole is sure to be a hit. It travels well and can easily be reheated, so it’s a great option for sharing with friends and family.
Versatile: While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily customize it with your favorite proteins and veggies. Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.

Ingredients Needed To Make Sloppy Joe Casserole

Ground beef
Tomato paste
Kosher salt
Black pepper
Ketchup
Worcestershire sauce
Bell pepper
Onion
Water
Brown sugar
Mustard powder
Chili powder
Tater tots
Shredded cheddar cheese

How To Make Sloppy Joe Casserole

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cook Ground Beef Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until halfway done, then add diced bell pepper and onion. Continue cooking until the onion is translucent. Add tomato paste, kosher salt, black pepper, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, water, brown sugar, mustard powder, and chili powder. Stir well, cover, and cook for 10 minutes.
Assemble Casserole: Pour the cooked ground beef mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture, covering the entire surface. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations & Substitutions

Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meatless ground substitute for a vegetarian version of the casserole.
Spicy Variation: Add diced jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Tex-Mex Twist: Add canned black beans, corn kernels, and taco seasoning to the ground beef mixture for a Tex-Mex flavor profile. Top with crushed tortilla chips instead of tater tots for added crunch.

Commonly Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack.

Can I make Sloppy Joe Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. You may need to increase the baking time slightly if the casserole is cold when placed in the oven.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

To store leftovers, transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual servings in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Sloppy Joe Casserole

I loved Sloppy Joe’s growing up and this casserole takes to a whole new level!

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: sloppy joe casserole

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 35

Total Time: 50

Servings:

Calories: 723kcal

Equipment

Measuring cups/spoons
Skillet
Mixing spoon
9×13-inch baking dish
Oven

Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef
6 oz tomato paste
2 ½ tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup ketchup
4 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 bell pepper diced
1 large onion diced
2 cups water
⅓ cup brown sugar
2 tsp mustard powder
1 tbsp chili powder
32 oz bag tater tots
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cook Ground Beef Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until halfway done, then add diced bell pepper and onion. Continue cooking until the onion is translucent. Add tomato paste, kosher salt, black pepper, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, water, brown sugar, mustard powder, and chili powder. Stir well, cover, and cook for 10 minutes.
Assemble Casserole: Pour the cooked ground beef mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture, covering the entire surface. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Variations:

Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meatless ground substitute for a vegetarian version of the casserole.
Spicy Variation: Add diced jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Tex-Mex Twist: Add canned black beans, corn kernels, and taco seasoning to the ground beef mixture for a Tex-Mex flavor profile. Top with crushed tortilla chips instead of tater tots for added crunch.