Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, combining the hearty goodness of Sloppy Joes with the sweet, fluffy texture of cornbread. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven! Whenever I make this casserole, it fills my kitchen with the most mouth-watering aroma and brings the whole family running to the table. The best part? You get that rich, savory beef and tangy sauce layered under a soft cornbread topping, all baked to golden perfection. It’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that warms the soul. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this deliciousness together!
Ingredients List
1 lb ground beef (use lean for less grease)
1 onion, chopped (I love using yellow onions for sweetness)
1 bell pepper, chopped (any color works, but red adds a nice sweetness)
1 cup ketchup (don’t skimp on this—it’s the base of the sauce!)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (a little goes a long way for depth of flavor)
1 can corn, drained (you can also use frozen corn if that’s what you have)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar is my go-to, but feel free to mix it up)
1 package cornbread mix (you can use homemade if you have a favorite recipe)
1 egg (this helps the cornbread rise and stay fluffy)
1/3 cup milk (whole milk gives the best taste, but any kind will do)
How to Prepare Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven warmed up! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it helps your casserole bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden crust. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Step 2: Cook the Meat Mixture
Now, grab a skillet and start browning the ground beef over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper as it cooks. I love the colors and flavors they bring to the mix! Cook until the beef is fully browned and the veggies are tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat; nobody wants a greasy casserole!
Once your meat and veggies are ready, stir in the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce. This is where the magic happens! Mix in the drained corn and make sure everything is well combined. You want those flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Next, spread that delicious beef mixture evenly in a greased baking dish. It’s going to be the hearty base of your casserole! In a separate bowl, prepare the cornbread mix by combining it with the egg and milk. Pour the cornbread batter right over the beef layer, spreading it out gently to cover everything. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top for that melty goodness!
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Pop your creation in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—this helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to cut! And oh boy, you’re in for a treat!
Nutritional Information
Just a quick note before we dive into the numbers: nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on the brands and specific ingredients you use. So, these figures are just estimates to give you a general idea of what you’re enjoying when you dig into this hearty Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole!
Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories: 350
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Now you can enjoy your casserole knowing exactly what you’re fueling your body with! Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s an easy, one-dish meal—who doesn’t love minimal cleanup?
The combination of savory Sloppy Joes and fluffy cornbread is just unbeatable!
Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something comforting.
Kids and adults alike rave about it—it’s a true crowd-pleaser!
Great for leftovers; it tastes even better the next day!
Customizable! Add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make this Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole even more amazing! First off, if you want to lighten it up a bit, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef—just be sure to season it well! If you’re not a fan of bell peppers, feel free to swap them out for zucchini or mushrooms. They’ll add a nice texture without overpowering the dish.
Also, don’t rush the browning of the meat; it adds a ton of flavor! And if you want an extra kick, sprinkle in some chili powder or hot sauce when mixing the beef. For a cheesy twist, try mixing different kinds of cheese, like pepper jack or mozzarella, for a fun flavor combo. Finally, let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking; it makes cutting and serving so much easier. You’ve got this!
Serving Suggestions
This Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole is delicious on its own, but pairing it with a few sides can take it to the next level! I love serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole. You could also whip up some roasted veggies—like broccoli or carrots—for a pop of color and nutrition. And don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for that extra burst of flavor. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different meat for this Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes if you want a lighter option. Just be sure to season it well to keep that classic Sloppy Joe flavor!
What can I do with leftovers?
Oh, leftovers are a dream! Just store any unused casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It actually tastes even better the next day because the flavors have more time to mingle!
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can! Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
What’s the best way to reheat it?
I recommend reheating the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This helps maintain that lovely cornbread topping!
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just swap out the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or even a mix of beans and lentils for a hearty, veggie-packed delight. You won’t miss the meat at all!
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