5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe

Featured in: Fun Weeknight Dinners

This comforting casserole combines browned ground beef with tangy sloppy joe sauce and mixed vegetables. Bread cubes form a base, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and baked until bubbly and golden. Ready in under an hour, it’s a simple, flavorful dish ideal for family meals. Variations include swapping beef for turkey or adding spices for heat. Serve warm for a hearty, satisfying meal that balances savory and tangy flavors.

Updated on Fri, 21 Nov 2025 08:42:00 GMT
A bubbly, cheesy 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole, perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Save to Pinterest
A bubbly, cheesy 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole, perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. | chomzo.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 dish quickly became a favorite in our household whenever we want something flavorful but fuss-free.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: 1 pound (450 g)
  • Sloppy joe sauce: 1 (15 oz/425 g) can (such as Manwich)
  • Frozen mixed vegetables: 1 cup (120 g) peas carrots corn thawed
  • Soft sandwich bread: 4 cups about 5 6 slices cubed
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: 1½ cups (170 g)

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.
The baked 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole features a golden, cheesy crust and savory ground beef. Save to Pinterest
The baked 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole features a golden, cheesy crust and savory ground beef. | chomzo.com

Sharing this casserole has created many joyful evenings around our dinner table.

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

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories 375 Total Fat 20 g Carbohydrates 27 g Protein 22 g

Warm, flavorful 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole, with visible mixed vegetables, ready to serve and enjoy. Save to Pinterest
Warm, flavorful 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole, with visible mixed vegetables, ready to serve and enjoy. | chomzo.com

This casserole is a quick go-to that never fails to satisfy after a busy day.

Common Questions

Can I substitute ground beef with other proteins?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well as lighter alternatives without sacrificing flavor.

What type of bread is best for this dish?

Soft sandwich bread cubes absorb flavors nicely, but slider buns or whole wheat bread can be used for different textures.

How can I add a spicy kick to the dish?

Incorporate sliced pickled jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes before baking to add heat.

Is it possible to prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the layers and refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving for best results.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen mixed vegetables?

Fresh peas, carrots, and corn can be used; just blanch or sauté them briefly before mixing to ensure even cooking.

5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe

Comforting casserole blending savory beef, tangy sauce, mixed veggies, bread, and melted cheese in one dish.

Prep Duration
10 minutes
Cook Duration
35 minutes
Time Needed
45 minutes
Author Maya Brooks


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Makes 6 Portions

Dietary Info None specified

Required Ingredients

Protein

01 1 pound ground beef

Sauce & Seasoning

01 1 (15 oz) can sloppy joe sauce

Vegetables

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

Bread Layer

01 4 cups cubed soft sandwich bread (about 5–6 slices)

Cheese

01 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Preparation Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

Cook Beef: Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up until fully cooked (6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 03

Combine Sauce and Vegetables: Stir in sloppy joe sauce and thawed mixed vegetables, simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Step 04

Assemble Casserole: Spread bread cubes evenly in prepared dish, then pour beef mixture over the top.

Step 05

Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the beef and bread layers.

Step 06

Bake: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling, and the casserole is hot throughout.

Step 07

Rest and Serve: Allow to stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Tools Needed

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

Allergy Details

Look at the ingredient list to spot allergens. If you have questions, ask a healthcare provider.
  • Contains wheat (bread) and milk (cheese)
  • May contain soy (in some sloppy joe sauces)

Nutrition Details (each portion)

These facts are just for your reference and not substitute for medical guidance.
  • Energy: 375
  • Fats: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Proteins: 22 g