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If you love the hearty, tangy goodness of a classic sloppy joe but crave a comforting twist, then this Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe is about to become your new favorite dish. Imagine savory, spiced ground beef bubbling beneath a fluffy, golden cornbread crust—every forkful is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors with a satisfying texture. It’s an easy, all-in-one meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate and is guaranteed to bring smiles around your dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe uses straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component plays a key role: the beef delivers rich heartiness, the veggies add freshness and texture, the tangy sauce layers in iconic sloppy joe flavors, and the cornbread topping adds that irresistible golden crunch.
- Cooking spray: To keep your casserole dish non-stick and help the cornbread brown nicely.
- 2 pounds ground chuck: The base of our savory filling, offering juicy, flavorful meatiness.
- 2 cups finely chopped yellow onion: For sweetness and depth that complements the beef perfectly.
- 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper: Adds a mild tang and great texture contrast to the onions.
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups beef broth: Adds moisture and deepens the overall umami notes.
- 1½ cups ketchup: Brings a classic sloppy joe sweetness and tang.
- 3 tablespoons yellow mustard: Adds a subtle bite and bright acidity to balance the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Delivers a complex savory and slightly smoky depth.
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar: Sweetens and caramelizes to round out the tangy sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the hearty, savory notes without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice.
- 2 (8.5-ounce) packages corn muffin mix (such as Jiffy): The simple secret to a fast, trusty cornbread topping that’s moist and golden.
- â…” cup whole milk: Moistens the cornbread batter for a tender crumb.
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the cornbread topping rises light and fluffy.
- 2 large eggs: Binds the cornbread ingredients for perfect texture.
How to Make Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray; this step is crucial to prevent sticking and to help your cornbread topping lift easily once baked. Ready your workspace because this casserole comes together quickly once the meat is cooked.
Step 2: Brown the Meat and Soften the Veggies
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook your ground chuck, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s almost fully browned, about 4 minutes. Toss in the finely chopped onion and green bell pepper, then cook for another 6 to 8 minutes until everything is tender and fragrant. This base layer builds the hearty flavor you’ll love in every bite.
Step 3: Build the Sloppy Joe Sauce
Stir the tomato paste into your skillet and cook it, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until it deepens in color—this step beautifully intensifies the tomato flavor. Next, pour in the beef broth, scraping the skillet bottom to lift those flavorful browned bits. Add ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, light brown sugar, garlic powder, and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil before lowering the heat to a simmer, letting the sauce thicken and bubble for about 7 minutes. This rich, tangy sauce is the heart and soul of your Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe.
Step 4: Prepare the Cornbread Topping
In a medium bowl, whisk together the corn muffin mix, whole milk, baking powder, and eggs until smooth and fully combined. This simple batter will turn into the perfect golden crust that contrasts delightfully with the saucy meat beneath.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake Your Casserole
Pour the Sloppy Joe mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Dollop and smooth the cornbread batter evenly over the top, ensuring you cover all the delicious edges. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and a wooden pick inserted in the center emerges clean. The sight of bubbling sauce peeking through the crust means you’re almost ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe presentation, sprinkle a handful of fresh chopped parsley or chives on top. The green flecks add lovely color and a slight freshness that complements the casserole’s rich flavors perfectly. A dollop of sour cream or a few sliced pickles on the side can also add a delightful tangy contrast.
Side Dishes
While this casserole is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with crisp coleslaw or a bright cucumber salad can add brightness and crunch. For a heartier affair, consider oven-roasted vegetables or a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual gatherings or potlucks, serve the Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe straight from the baking dish for easy scoop-and-serve sharing. If you want to make it a bit more special, plate individual servings with a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar and broil until melted and bubbly before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe keeps well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cool it completely before sealing; this helps maintain that beautiful texture in both the cornbread topping and the savory filling.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. When freezing raw, assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container and wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will keep for up to 3 months. To freeze after baking, let the casserole cool fully, then cover tightly and freeze likewise. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes, to keep that cornbread topping perfectly crisp. You can also microwave individual portions, but the cornbread will lose some of its crispness. For best texture, baking lightly in the oven is worth the wait.
FAQs
Can I make this Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the corn muffin mix with a gluten-free cornbread mix or prepare your own gluten-free cornbread batter to keep the casserole safe for gluten-sensitive eaters without sacrificing flavor.
Is it possible to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted to lighten up the dish. Just keep in mind these meats are leaner, so adding a splash of beef broth or a drizzle of olive oil while cooking can help maintain moistness and flavor.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead and bake it later?
Definitely. Assemble the entire casserole up to the baking step and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great make-ahead meal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
How spicy is this recipe?
The Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe is mild, relying on mustard and black pepper for gentle warmth. Feel free to add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture if you like a spicier kick.
What can I use instead of corn muffin mix?
If you don’t have corn muffin mix on hand, you can use a homemade cornbread batter made from cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, milk, eggs, and butter. This lets you tailor sweetness and texture for your preference while still delivering that classic cornbread top.
Final Thoughts
If you’re hunting for a soul-satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal that blends classic flavors with a cozy twist, the Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe is your ticket. It’s easy to pull together, fun to serve, and utterly delicious every time. I can’t wait for you to taste how this casserole transforms well-loved ingredients into joyful comfort food magic. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Print
Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole that combines rich ground beef in a tangy tomato sauce topped with a fluffy golden cornbread layer. Perfect for a family dinner, this easy one-dish meal bakes ground chuck with savory aromatics and classic Sloppy Joe flavors, finished with a moist homemade cornbread topping.
Ingredients
Sloppy Joe Mixture
- Cooking spray
- 2 pounds ground chuck
- 2 cups finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1½ cups ketchup
- 3 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Cornbread Topping
- 2 (8.5-ounce) packages corn muffin mix (such as Jiffy)
- â…” cup whole milk
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground chuck, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s almost fully browned, approximately 4 minutes. Add the finely chopped onion and green bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Make the Sloppy Joe Mixture: Stir in the tomato paste and cook while stirring constantly until it darkens slightly, around 2 minutes. Add the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits at the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Stir in the ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the sauce thickens and bubbles, roughly 7 minutes. Transfer this Sloppy Joe mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Cornbread Topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together the corn muffin mix, whole milk, baking powder, and eggs until the batter is smooth and thoroughly combined. Spoon the cornbread batter evenly over the hot Sloppy Joe mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for a few minutes before serving to let flavors meld and for easier slicing. Enjoy your comforting Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños to the bell pepper and onions.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use low-sodium ketchup and beef broth to reduce sodium content.
- If you prefer a tangier flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or hot sauce to the Sloppy Joe mixture.
- The cornbread topping can be made from scratch using cornmeal if preferred instead of muffin mix.
