5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole

Featured in: Comfort Food Love

This comforting dish layers browned ground beef simmered in a tangy sauce with thawed mixed vegetables over cubed bread, then topped with shredded cheddar cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden, it offers a savory, hearty meal with minimal prep time. Perfect for family dinners, it can be customized with different proteins or bread varieties.

Updated on Sat, 22 Nov 2025 13:08:00 GMT
Sloppy Joe Casserole, bubbly with melted cheese and a savory, steaming ground beef filling, ready to serve. Save
Sloppy Joe Casserole, bubbly with melted cheese and a savory, steaming ground beef filling, ready to serve. | tastyeffect.com

A family-friendly, comforting casserole that delivers all the tangy, savory flavors of classic Sloppy Joes with minimal effort and just five pantry staples.

This casserole quickly became a favorite in my home for busy weeknights when I want something hearty but simple.

Ingredients

  • Protein: 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
  • Sauce & Seasoning: 1 (15 oz&425 g) can sloppy joe sauce (such as Manwich)
  • Vegetables: 1 cup (120 g) frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) thawed
  • Bread Layer: 4 cups (about 5 6 slices) soft sandwich bread cubed
  • Cheese: 1½ cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
Step 2:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked breaking it up with a spoon (about 6 8 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3:
Stir in the sloppy joe sauce and thawed mixed vegetables. Simmer for 2 3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 4:
Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the beef mixture over the bread spreading it out evenly.
Step 5:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 6:
Bake uncovered for 20 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the casserole is hot throughout.
Step 7:
Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
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| tastyeffect.com

My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy this flavorful casserole especially on chilly evenings.

Notes

Swap sandwich bread for slider buns or use whole wheat bread for extra fiber. Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Required Tools

Large skillet 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish Wooden spoon or spatula Measuring cups

Allergen Information

Contains Wheat (bread) Milk (cheese) May contain Soy (in some sloppy joe sauces) Always check product labels for specific allergens.

This 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole shows off a golden-brown cheesy crust topping a hearty dinner. Save
This 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole shows off a golden-brown cheesy crust topping a hearty dinner. | tastyeffect.com

Enjoy this easy and flavorful casserole for a comforting family meal any night of the week.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use other proteins instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter variation without compromising flavor.

What type of bread works best for this dish?

Soft sandwich bread is ideal for absorbing flavors, though slider buns or whole wheat bread can be used for different textures.

Can I add spice to the casserole?

Adding pickled jalapeños or red pepper flakes will introduce a pleasant spicy kick to the dish.

How do the vegetables enhance the casserole?

Frozen mixed vegetables add color, texture, and a subtle sweetness that balances the savory meat and cheese layers.

What is the best way to ensure the casserole is hot throughout?

Baking uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling ensures even heat and melding of flavors.

5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole

Tangy, savory Sloppy Joe casserole with beef, veggies, bread, and melted cheddar cheese in one comforting dish.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
35 min
Complete duration
45 min
Created by Laura Bennett


Skill level Easy

Heritage American

Output 6 Portions

Dietary requirements None specified

Components

Protein

01 1 pound ground beef

Sauce & Seasoning

01 1 can (15 oz) sloppy joe sauce (e.g., Manwich)

Vegetables

01 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn), thawed

Bread Layer

01 4 cups cubed soft sandwich bread (approximately 5 to 6 slices)

Cheese

01 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

Phase 01

Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Phase 02

Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Phase 03

Combine Sauce and Vegetables: Add the sloppy joe sauce and thawed mixed vegetables to the beef. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.

Phase 04

Assemble Layers: Spread the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish, then pour the beef mixture over it, distributing evenly.

Phase 05

Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

Phase 06

Bake Casserole: Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the dish is heated throughout.

Phase 07

Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Necessary tools

  • Large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and seek professional healthcare advice if uncertain.
  • Contains wheat (bread) and milk (cheese). May contain soy (in some sloppy joe sauces).

Nutritional information (per portion)

These values are approximate guides only and shouldn't replace professional medical consultation.
  • Energy: 375
  • Fats: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Proteins: 22 g