👉SloppyJoe CasseroleManwich – Recipes on a Budget

Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich

Engaging Description

There’s something inherently comforting about a hearty casserole, and our Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich is no exception. This dish brings together the nostalgic flavors of classic Sloppy Joes with the convenience and warmth of a baked casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home. The creamy cheese, tender pasta, and savory sauce create a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients Overview

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this casserole a standout:

Ground Beef: Using 85% lean ground beef ensures a rich flavor without too much grease.
Onions: Diced onions add a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish.
Manwich Sauce: This ready-made sauce brings the classic Sloppy Joe flavor with a tangy tomato base.
Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and enhances the overall flavor.
Diced Tomatoes: Provide additional texture and a fresh tomato taste.
Farfalle Pasta: This bow-tie shaped pasta holds the sauce beautifully.
Velveeta Cheese: Melts smoothly to create a creamy, cheesy layer.
Corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
Cheddar Cheese: A sharp, shredded topping for that perfect cheesy crust.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to get it ready for baking.
Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet or pot, cook 1 lb. of ground beef over medium-high heat. As the beef cooks, add ½ cup diced onions. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Remember to drain any excess grease for a healthier dish.

Sauce and Simmer

Stir in the sauces: Add 1 can (15.5 oz) of Manwich sauce, 2 ½ cups of chicken broth, and 1 can (14.5 oz) of undrained diced tomatoes to the beef mixture. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
Add the pasta: Stir in ¾ pound of uncooked farfalle pasta. Ensure the pasta is well mixed and submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.

Cheesy Goodness

Incorporate the corn: Lower the heat and mix in 1 cup of corn (frozen or drained from a can).
Melt the Velveeta: Add 8 oz. of cubed Velveeta cheese. Cover the pot to allow the cheese to melt fully. Once melted, stir to combine everything evenly, creating a creamy, cheesy mixture.

Assemble and Bake

Transfer to casserole dish: Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish and pour the cheesy mixture into it, spreading it out evenly.
Top with cheddar: Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top for that irresistible gooey, golden finish.
Bake: Cover the casserole dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Dish it up: Once baked, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with a side of warm cornbread to complement the rich flavors.

Valuable Tips

Tip 1: For a healthier option, use ground turkey instead of beef.
Tip 2: Add a handful of chopped bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Tip 3: Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a more complex cheese topping.
Tip 4: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a fresh pop of flavor when sprinkled on top before serving.
Tip 5: If you prefer a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. For larger portions, cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, but cooking times may vary.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate, and then bake it when ready.

Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, this casserole freezes well. Make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it tightly and freezing. It will keep for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat the frozen casserole? Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole? Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.

What can I substitute for Velveeta cheese? You can use a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheese if you prefer.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You might need to adjust the liquid content accordingly.

Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole? Yes, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or extra vegetables.

What side dishes go well with this casserole? Cornbread, a green salad, or steamed vegetables make great sides.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the topping? Certainly! Try using Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this casserole spicier? Add some hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.

Can I use ground chicken instead of beef? Yes, ground chicken is a great alternative.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy? Be sure to simmer the pasta just until it’s al dente before baking.

Can I use homemade Sloppy Joe sauce instead of Manwich? Yes, homemade sauce will work perfectly.

What’s the best way to grease the casserole dish? Use a non-stick spray or a thin layer of butter.

Can I add beans to this casserole? Yes, black beans or kidney beans make a great addition.

How do I make the casserole creamier? You can add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the cheese mixture.

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen or canned? Yes, fresh corn kernels work well in this recipe.

How do I know when the casserole is done? The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly and the pasta is tender.

Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth? Yes, beef broth will add a deeper flavor to the dish.

20 Secrets for Achieving Culinary Perfection

Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-grated cheese contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly.
Season as you go: Layering flavors at each step will enhance the overall taste.
Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook until just al dente to avoid mushy pasta in the final dish.
Drain the beef properly: This prevents the casserole from becoming too greasy.
Use high-quality tomatoes: Better quality canned tomatoes will enhance the flavor.
Let the cheese melt fully: Ensure the Velveeta is fully melted before transferring to the casserole dish.
Add herbs at the end: Fresh herbs added just before serving will provide a burst of freshness.
Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper levels before baking.
Bake covered: Keeps the moisture in and ensures the cheese doesn’t burn.
Let it rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to set.
Use a heavy-bottomed pot: Prevents the sauce from burning and sticking.
Incorporate vegetables: Adding vegetables increases the nutritional value and flavor.
Taste the sauce: Adjust the seasoning of the sauce before adding the pasta.
Use a mixture of cheeses: Different cheeses can add depth of flavor.
Add a bit of sugar: A pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Ensure even layers: Spread the mixture evenly in the casserole dish for uniform cooking.
Opt for low-sodium broth: This allows you to control the salt content better.
Fresh corn for a crunch: Fresh corn kernels add a delightful crunch.
Customize the spice level: Adjust the heat according to your preference.
Garnish for presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of sour cream can elevate the dish’s appearance and taste.