If you are looking for a dish that combines the bold, comforting flavors of classic Sloppy Joes with the warm, tender crumb of golden cornbread, then this Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe is just what you need. It’s a hearty, soul-satisfying meal that layers seasoned ground beef simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce with a fluffy cornbread topping baked to perfection. This recipe takes all the fun of a nostalgic sandwich and transforms it into an easy, crowd-pleasing casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Trust me, once you try this Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to comfort foods.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is the first step toward creating a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each element is crucial — from the juicy ground chuck providing richness, to the bright, fresh crunch of onions and peppers, to the sweet and tangy sauce that brings everything together. The cornbread topping adds that irresistible golden crust and soft crumb that perfectly balances the savory filling.
- Cooking spray: To keep your casserole dish non-stick and make clean-up easier.
- 2 pounds ground chuck: Provides hearty protein and great flavor for the Sloppy Joe base.
- 2 cups finely chopped yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked down.
- 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper: Offers a gentle crunch and fresh bite contrast.
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 2 cups beef broth: Helps bring the sauce together with savory richness.
- 1½ cups ketchup: Brings the perfect blend of sweetness and tang.
- 3 tablespoons yellow mustard: Adds a subtle sharpness and classic Sloppy Joe zing.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Enhances savoriness with a slightly smoky, umami boost.
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar: Balances acidity with a warm, caramel note.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers that familiar garlicky warmth without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right hint of spice.
- 2 (8.5-ounce) packages corn muffin mix: Quick and easy base for the cornbread topping that bakes up moist and fluffy.
- â…” cup whole milk: Moistens the cornbread batter for a tender crumb.
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder: Gives the cornbread lift and lightness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the cornbread ingredients together, ensuring a soft texture.
How to Make Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This simple prep step ensures your casserole bakes evenly and comes out cleanly when served.
Step 2: Cook the Meat and Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground chuck while breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once the meat is nearly cooked through, add the onions and green bell peppers, cooking until they soften and meld into the mix. This combination creates a bed of flavor that forms the heart of your casserole.
Step 3: Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste and cook it for a couple of minutes to deepen its flavor. Then add beef broth, scraping up any browned bits — that’s where a lot of richness hides. Stir in ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer until the sauce thickens and bubbles nicely. Pour this savory, tangy filling into your prepared baking dish, ready for the cornbread topping.
Step 4: Prepare and Add Cornbread Topping
Mix together the corn muffin mix, milk, baking powder, and eggs in a medium bowl until smooth. This batter is simple but essential for that golden crust and fluffy texture that balances the hearty filling below. Spoon the batter evenly over your Sloppy Joe mixture, spreading gently to cover completely.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the casserole into the oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. You know it’s done when the cornbread turns a gorgeous golden brown and a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool slightly before serving — that brief wait makes it easier to cut and lets all those incredible flavors settle.
How to Serve Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness that brightens the rich casserole. If you love a little extra zing, a dash of hot sauce on the side can elevate each bite with a pleasant spicy kick.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp, green salads to lighten the meal or some steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans for added texture and nutrition. For a cozy, indulgent experience, try serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a simple coleslaw.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in individual ramekins for a charming presentation at dinner parties or family meals. For a fun twist, top each serving with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream to mimic the flavors of a sloppy joe sandwich with an extra creamy, cheesy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making for an easy, tasty meal when you don’t feel like cooking again so soon.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick and satisfying dinner option.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes, or microwave slices for a quicker option. Reheating this way keeps the cornbread topping moist and the filling flavorful, just like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chuck for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in the Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking times as it can dry out more quickly than ground chuck.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! You can swap the ground chuck for plant-based meat crumbles or cooked lentils to maintain the hearty texture and protein content without the meat.
Can I make the cornbread topping from scratch?
Definitely. If you prefer homemade cornbread batter, use your favorite recipe instead of the corn muffin mix. Just make sure the batter is spoonable and not too thick to spread evenly over the Sloppy Joe filling.
What if I don’t have baking powder on hand?
Baking powder helps the cornbread rise and get fluffy, but if you’re out, you can try using a mix of baking soda and cream of tartar as substitutes, or proceed without it, though your cornbread may be denser.
How spicy is the casserole?
This Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe has a mild, comforting spice level designed to please all palates. Feel free to add hot sauce or chili flakes if you like it with extra heat!
Final Thoughts
This Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe is a perfect blend of nostalgic comfort food and cozy casserole goodness that anyone can enjoy. It’s straightforward to prepare, uses simple pantry staples, and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Give this dish a try for your next meal and watch it quickly become a beloved favorite in your household.
Print
Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole combines a classic sloppy joe filling made with ground beef, onions, and bell peppers in a rich, tangy tomato-based sauce, topped with a fluffy cornbread batter and baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting, hearty casserole perfect for a family meal or casual gathering, bringing together the flavors of a traditional sloppy joe with the satisfying texture of baked cornbread.
Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joe Mixture
- Cooking spray
- 2 pounds ground chuck
- 2 cups finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1½ cups ketchup
- 3 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Cornbread Topping
- 2 (8.5-ounce) packages corn muffin mix (such as Jiffy)
- â…” cup whole milk
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground chuck, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s almost fully browned, about 4 minutes. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, cooking together until vegetables soften, approximately 6 to 8 minutes.
- Make the Sloppy Joe Mixture: Stir in the tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly, until it darkens slightly, about 2 minutes. Add beef broth while scraping the skillet to loosen any browned bits for added flavor. Then stir in ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until the sauce thickens and bubbles, about 7 minutes. Transfer this flavorful mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Cornbread Topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together corn muffin mix, whole milk, baking powder, and eggs until the batter is smooth and well combined. Spoon the batter evenly over the Sloppy Joe mixture in the baking dish, spreading gently if needed.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cornbread topping is golden brown and a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the dish to set. Then enjoy your hearty Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole!
Notes
- Use a 9×13-inch baking dish for even cooking and proper thickness of the casserole.
- Ground chuck with around 15-20% fat content works best for flavorful and juicy meat mixture.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sloppy joe mixture.
- The cornbread topping can be made with your favorite corn muffin mix if Jiffy is unavailable.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to make serving easier.
