5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole

Featured in: Comfort Food

This comforting layered dish combines browned ground beef with savory sloppy joe sauce and thawed mixed vegetables. A bread layer provides a soft base topped with melted cheddar cheese, baked until bubbling and hot throughout. Ready in 45 minutes, it’s a simple, hearty option using just five common ingredients and minimal preparation.

Variations include using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter approach, or adding pickled jalapeños for extra heat. Served warm, this casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Updated on Fri, 21 Nov 2025 13:05:00 GMT
Golden, bubbling 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole, a family-favorite comfort food baked to perfection. Save
Golden, bubbling 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole, a family-favorite comfort food baked to perfection. | berrycottage.com

A family-friendly, comforting casserole that delivers all the tangy, savory flavors of classic Sloppy Joes with minimal effort and just five pantry staples.

This casserole has become a go-to in my household when I want a quick but satisfying meal. My family always enjoys it!

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: 1 pound (450 g)
  • Sloppy joe sauce: 1 (15 oz/425 g) can (such as Manwich)
  • Frozen mixed vegetables: 1 cup (120 g) (peas, carrots, corn), thawed
  • Soft sandwich bread: 4 cups (about 5 6 slices), cubed
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: 1½ cups (170 g)

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
Step 2:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon (about 6 8 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3:
Stir in the sloppy joe sauce and thawed mixed vegetables. Simmer for 2 3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 4:
Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the beef mixture over the bread, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 6:
Bake uncovered for 20 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the casserole is hot throughout.
Step 7:
Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Savory 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole with melted cheddar, served hot and ready to enjoy. Save
Savory 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole with melted cheddar, served hot and ready to enjoy. | berrycottage.com

My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy this casserole. It’s a real weeknight winner that brings everyone together.

Variations

Try swapping sandwich bread for slider buns or whole wheat bread for a different texture and flavor. You can also add extra veggies to boost nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

A close-up of a hearty 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole, showcasing its delicious texture. Save
A close-up of a hearty 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole, showcasing its delicious texture. | berrycottage.com

This simple casserole delivers classic Sloppy Joe flavors with minimal prep. It’s perfect for busy nights!

Recipe FAQ

What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Can I use different types of bread?

Yes, slider buns or whole wheat bread work well and can add extra fiber or different textures.

How do I add spice to this dish?

Incorporate sliced pickled jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the mix before baking for a spicy kick.

Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?

You can assemble the layers in advance and refrigerate before baking to save time on serving day.

What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables complement the rich and savory flavors nicely.

5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole

Comforting dish featuring ground beef, tangy sauce, mixed veggies, bread, and cheddar cheese in one bake.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
35 min
Complete duration
45 min
Created by Lily Anderson


Complexity Easy

Heritage American

Output 6 Portions

Dietary considerations None specified

Components

Protein

01 1 pound ground beef

Sauce & Seasoning

01 1 (15 oz) can sloppy joe sauce

Vegetables

01 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn), thawed

Bread Layer

01 4 cups cubed soft sandwich bread (about 5–6 slices)

Cheese

01 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

Direction 01

Prepare Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Direction 02

Brown Beef: Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up until fully browned, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Direction 03

Combine Sauce and Vegetables: Add sloppy joe sauce and thawed vegetables to beef, stirring and simmering for 2 to 3 minutes until heated.

Direction 04

Assemble Base Layer: Evenly spread cubed bread in the prepared dish. Pour beef mixture over bread and spread uniformly.

Direction 05

Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer.

Direction 06

Bake: Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbling, and the dish is thoroughly heated.

Direction 07

Rest before Serving: Allow casserole to stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Necessary tools

  • Large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups

Allergy information

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and seek professional medical advice if you have concerns.
  • Contains wheat (bread) and milk (cheese)
  • May contain soy (depending on sauce brand)

Nutritional information (per portion)

These values are estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 375
  • Fats: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Proteins: 22 g