Sloppy Joe Wagon Wheels
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish combining wagon wheel pasta with savory ground beef and a tangy spaghetti sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the wagon wheel pasta according to the package directions.
- Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the ground beef, chopped green pepper, and chopped onion until the meat is no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the spaghetti sauce and meatless spaghetti sauce; heat through.
- Drain the cooked pasta and mix it with the beef mixture.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage in this recipe. You can also substitute the wagon wheel pasta with any pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne or fusilli. If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. This dish can be easily doubled for larger gatherings or meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sloppy Joe Wagon Wheels with a side of garlic bread for a delicious meal. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables can complement the richness of the dish. For a fun twist, top with shredded cheese or serve with pickles on the side. This dish pairs beautifully with Baked Beans With Beef And Bacon for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the Sloppy Joe Wagon Wheels in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sloppy Joe Wagon Wheels contains roughly 223 calories, with 6g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (90% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce mixture in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator and cook the pasta when you are ready to serve. Combine everything just before serving to ensure the pasta stays firm and fresh.
What can I do if I want a vegetarian version?
You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh or Beyond Meat. Use a vegetable-based spaghetti sauce and add more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for added texture.
Is it possible to freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the Sloppy Joe Wagon Wheels. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat thoroughly on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).