Sloppy Joes Casserole
A hearty casserole combining classic Sloppy Joe flavors with pasta and creamy cottage cheese, topped with melted Cheddar. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a comforting, savory taste with tender macaroni and seasoned ground beef in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni until al dente; drain.
- Mix the seasoning mix with ground chuck, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and 1 1/4 cups water to make the sauce.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 2 1/2-quart casserole, layer half of the cooked macaroni, half of the cottage cheese, and half of the meat sauce; repeat the layers.
- Top with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes or until bubbling.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or onions to the ground chuck while cooking. If you want a lighter version, substitute the ground chuck with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative. For a creamier texture, mix in sour cream with the cottage cheese. You can also incorporate spices like smoked paprika for extra depth. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or casual gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sloppy Joes casserole with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Holiday Fruitcake for dessert, making it a hit for any gathering. For added crunch, consider serving with some tortilla chips or a simple coleslaw. This dish is also great for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. Ensure it’s heated evenly before serving to maintain the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sloppy Joes Casserole contains roughly 291 calories, with 24g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. At about 291 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, or bake directly from frozen, extending the cook time by 10-20 minutes.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
If you're not a fan of cottage cheese, ricotta cheese is a great substitute, offering a similar creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based cream cheese or a mixture of blended silken tofu with nutritional yeast for added flavor. Adjust seasonings accordingly to maintain the taste.
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).