👉Sloppy JoeManwich – Recipes on a Budget

Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich

Indulge in the comforting embrace of this Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich, a delightful twist on the classic sloppy joe. This recipe combines tender ground beef, savory Manwich sauce, and perfectly cooked farfalle noodles, all smothered in gooey Velveeta and Colby-Jack cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients Overview

1 lb lean ground beef: Choose lean ground beef to keep the dish flavorful without being too greasy. Lean beef balances the rich cheese and Manwich sauce perfectly.

1 cup diced yellow onion: Yellow onions add a mild sweetness and depth of flavor to the casserole, complementing the savory notes of the beef and sauce.

24 oz and 15 oz cans original Manwich sauce: Manwich sauce brings that classic sloppy joe flavor, with just the right blend of tangy and sweet to make this casserole irresistible.

12 oz package farfalle (bowtie) noodles: Cooked al dente, farfalle noodles provide a sturdy base for the casserole, holding up well under the rich, hearty sauce.

8 oz package shredded Velveeta: Velveeta melts beautifully, creating a creamy, luscious texture that envelops every bite.

8 oz package shredded Colby-Jack cheese: Colby-Jack cheese adds a mild, slightly tangy flavor and a golden, bubbly top layer that’s simply irresistible.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Preheat the Oven: Warm up your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9×13 baking dish with a light spray of cooking spray and set it aside.

Brown Beef and Onion:

Brown the Beef and Onion: In a large pot (about 4-5 quarts), cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess grease and return the beef and onions to the pot.

Add Ingredients:

Combine Ingredients: Add both cans of Manwich sauce, the cooked farfalle noodles, and the shredded Velveeta to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined and the cheese is melted into the mixture.

Transfer to Baking Dish:

Assemble the Casserole: Pour the sloppy joe mixture into the prepared 9×13 baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Add Cheese:

Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Colby-Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

Bake:

Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.

Cool and Serve:

Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy:

Enjoy: Dish up this warm, comforting casserole and savor each delicious bite.

Valuable Cooking Tips

Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: For the best melting texture, shred your own Velveeta and Colby-Jack cheese rather than using pre-shredded.

Cook Noodles Al Dente: Ensure the farfalle noodles are cooked just al dente, as they will continue to cook slightly in the oven and you don’t want them to become mushy.

Season to Taste: If you prefer a bit more spice, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: This casserole freezes well. After cooling, portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the farfalle with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni.

Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?

Absolutely! You can use plant-based ground meat or lentils as a substitute for the ground beef.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can enhance the nutritional value and flavor.

How can I make the casserole spicier?

To add some heat, include diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack.

What’s the best way to prevent the noodles from getting too soft?

Cooking the noodles al dente and not overbaking the casserole will help keep the noodles from becoming too soft.

How can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Manwich sauce is gluten-free.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

What side dishes go well with this casserole?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables make excellent side dishes.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and use two 9×13 baking dishes or one larger dish.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat in the oven covered with foil to prevent drying, or use the microwave with a microwave-safe cover.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of Manwich sauce?

Manwich sauce gives a distinct flavor, but you can use a combination of tomato sauce and spices as a substitute.

How long does the casserole last in the fridge?

Properly stored, it lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I add bacon to the casserole?

Yes, cooked and crumbled bacon can be a delicious addition.

Is there a low-fat version of this recipe?

You can use lean ground turkey, reduced-fat cheese, and a lighter pasta to make a lower-fat version.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, after browning the beef and onions, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

What’s the best way to transport this casserole for a potluck?

Cover the baking dish with foil and use an insulated carrier to keep it warm during transport.

How can I make this casserole creamier?

Add a splash of milk or cream when mixing the ingredients for an extra creamy texture.

Can I add a crunchy topping?

Crushed potato chips, breadcrumbs, or fried onions make a delicious crunchy topping.

What’s the best way to ensure even cheese melting?

Shred the cheese yourself and spread it evenly over the casserole before baking.

20 Secrets for Achieving Culinary Perfection

Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly diced onions and freshly shredded cheese elevate the dish’s flavor.
Season the Beef Well: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper when browning the beef.
Mix Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are well combined for an even flavor throughout.
Add Extra Cheese: For cheese lovers, a little extra Velveeta or Colby-Jack never hurts.
Try Different Pastas: Experiment with different pasta shapes to find your favorite texture.
Layer Flavors: Consider adding a layer of cheese in the middle for an extra cheesy bite.
Make it Smoky: A dash of smoked paprika can add a delightful smokiness.
Use High-Quality Meat: Opt for lean, high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
Add a Pinch of Sugar: A tiny bit of sugar can balance the acidity of the Manwich sauce.
Use Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.
Ensure Al Dente Pasta: Perfectly cooked pasta makes all the difference.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole to prevent it from drying out.
Experiment with Cheese Blends: Mixing different cheeses can create a unique flavor profile.
Enhance with Vegetables: Adding veggies not only boosts nutrition but also adds texture and flavor.
Layer Cheese Evenly: Ensure the cheese is evenly spread for consistent melting.
Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the heat by adding or reducing spicy ingredients.
Preheat the Oven: Always ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking.
Use an Oven Thermometer: To avoid over or under-baking, use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to set and enhance flavors.
Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed hot, so serve immediately after resting.