Sloppy Joe Penne Pasta Casserole:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green pepper, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) Manwich sauce
- 1 lb penne pasta, cooked according to package instructions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add chopped onion and green pepper to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the can of Manwich sauce, mixing well with the beef and vegetables. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
- In a separate pot, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the Manwich mixture. Stir until the pasta is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy your Sloppy Joe Penne Pasta Casserole with less mess but all the flavor
To enhance your Sloppy Joe Penne Pasta Casserole, consider these tips:
Customize Your Sauce: While Manwich sauce provides convenience, you can personalize the flavor by adding spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chili powder. You can also mix in a bit of ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, or brown sugar to adjust the taste to your liking.
Vegetable Variety: Don’t limit yourself to just onion and green pepper. Experiment with other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for added flavor and nutrition. You can also sneak in some finely chopped spinach or kale for extra greens.
Cheese Choices: While shredded cheddar is a classic choice for topping, you can try different cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for a more indulgent twist. Crumbled feta or grated Parmesan can also add a unique flavor profile.
Add Texture: Consider mixing in some cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham for added texture and savory goodness. You can also sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking to create a crispy topping.
Herbaceous Touch: Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or cilantro can elevate the flavor of your casserole. Sprinkle some chopped herbs over the dish just before serving for a burst of freshness.
Make it Creamy: For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt into the Manwich mixture before adding the pasta. This will add richness and creaminess to the dish.
Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over individual servings for those who prefer an extra kick.
Serve with Sides: While the casserole is delicious on its own, you can serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to round out the meal and add variety to your dinner spread.
By incorporating these tips, you can elevate the flavors and textures of your Sloppy Joe Penne Pasta Casserole to create a memorable and satisfying meal for your family and friends
