Meet your new favorite weeknight dinner: Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich. It’s everything you love about a classic Sloppy Joe, but transformed into a cozy, all-in-one bake that’s comforting, satisfying, and oh-so-easy. With tender biscuits on top, gooey cheddar cheese, and a meaty, saucy base packed with colorful veggies, this crowd-pleaser truly brings together the flavors and nostalgia of the iconic sandwich, but with half the mess and double the fun. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this casserole is bound to bring everyone running to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich keeps things simple and approachable, yet each ingredient plays a role in building the perfect bite. From the hearty meat and sauce to the fluffy biscuits and melted cheese, every layer adds something special you won’t want to miss.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The savory, juicy foundation that brings big flavor and heartiness to the dish.
- Manwich Sloppy Joe sauce (1 can, 15 oz): The shortcut superstar, delivering that nostalgic tang and a touch of sweetness in every bite.
- Frozen mixed vegetables (2 cups): Think corn, peas, and carrots—they add pops of color and a bit of crunch, making it a complete meal.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts into rich, gooey layers, bringing creamy, sharp goodness throughout.
- Refrigerated biscuit dough (1 can, 16.3 oz) or 6 large biscuits: The golden, pillowy topping that transforms the casserole into comfort food bliss.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps brown the beef and adds subtle flavor depth.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Enhances the savory notes without overwhelming the dish.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Gives the casserole just a hint of sweetness and complexity.
- Salt and pepper: Key for seasoning every layer to perfection—add to taste!
- Chopped parsley (optional): Perfect for a fresh, vibrant garnish before serving.
How to Make Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Before you start, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your casserole is assembled. Grease a trusty 9×13-inch baking dish with a little oil or non-stick spray—this is the stage for your Sloppy Joe magic.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. You want it browned and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any extra grease to keep things light and tasty!
Step 3: Stir in Manwich and Veggies
Time for the heart of the Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich—stir in the Manwich sauce and toss in the frozen mixed vegetables. Let everything simmer together for 3–4 minutes so that the vegetables soften just a bit and soak up all that saucy flavor.
Step 4: Season It Up
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, plus a few pinches of salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir. Taste and tweak—this is your moment to customize the casserole’s seasoning to your liking.
Step 5: Layer in the Baking Dish
Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every slice gets a sturdy, saucy base. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese over this layer for a melty middle.
Step 6: Add the Biscuits
Top that cheesy layer with biscuit dough—either cut into pieces to cover the surface, or arrange six large biscuits right on top. This is where the magic happens in the oven! Finish with the rest of the cheddar cheese sprinkled over the biscuits.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Goodness
Slide the casserole into the oven. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the biscuits are risen and golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and irresistible. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to help everything set.
Step 8: Garnish and Dig In
For the final flourish, scatter chopped parsley over the top if you like. Then, serve up hearty squares of your Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich and get ready for smiles at every table.
How to Serve Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a burst of color, or try sliced green onions for a gentle bite. A drizzle of hot sauce brings a hint of heat for spice lovers. Even a light touch of extra shredded cheese on top after baking is always welcome!
Side Dishes
This casserole is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, creamy coleslaw, or simple roasted veggies. For a classic comfort food combo, serve with steamed green beans or a side of pickles to brighten up every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich is fun to portion in ramekins for individual servings—a hit at parties or potlucks. Or scoop it onto mini slider buns for a playful, hand-held spin that kids and adults will both love. You can even serve it family-style, right from the dish, for a relaxed, homey vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. The casserole holds up well and actually gets even tastier as the flavors meld together overnight.
Freezing
Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or portion into individual freezer-safe containers. Store for up to 2 months—just defrost in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. Single servings can be microwaved for 1–2 minutes (cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out) until perfectly hot and cheesy again.
FAQs
Can I use a different ground meat instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless crumbled alternative will work beautifully in Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich. Just be sure to adjust seasonings as needed to match the flavor profile you love.
What if I don’t have biscuit dough?
No biscuit dough? No problem! Crescent roll dough makes a wonderful, flaky topping. Puff pastry or even a quick homemade drop biscuit dough can step in, so don’t let the lack of biscuits stop you.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole (without baking) and store it covered in the fridge for up to 1 day. When you’re ready, bake as directed—just add a couple extra minutes, since you’ll be starting from cold.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to sneak in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini when browning the meat, or double up on the mixed veggies for an even more colorful casserole.
How can I make it spicier?
If you love heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the beef or swirl in your favorite hot sauce with the Manwich sauce. Sliced jalapeños on top or a spicy cheese blend will kick things up, too.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a guaranteed dinner win, give this Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich a try. It’s a playful, comforting meal that’s both easy enough for busy nights and special enough to serve to company. Gather your ingredients and dive in—you’re about to discover a new family favorite!
