Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Introduction: The Perfect Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes satisfy like a hearty casserole. The Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole combines the classic flavors of sloppy joes with the softness of freshly baked biscuits, creating an irresistible meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. This casserole is a delicious twist on two beloved comfort foods, making it ideal for feeding a hungry family or for meal prepping in advance.

The combination of seasoned ground beef, tomato sauce, and buttery biscuit dough creates a satisfying, rich flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to serve at a weekend gathering, this dish offers the ideal balance of ease and flavor.

In this detailed guide, we will walk you through each step of the recipe, offer helpful tips, and suggest variations to customize the dish to your liking. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole recipe!

Ingredients for Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients to make this delicious casserole. The recipe requires a mix of simple, pantry staples that will provide a perfect balance of flavors:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef – You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

• 1 medium onion – Chopped finely for a savory depth of flavor.

• 1 green bell pepper – Chopped to add a fresh, crunchy texture.

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – A key component for the Sloppy Joe sauce.

• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste – Adds thickness and richness to the sauce.

• 1/4 cup ketchup – For the classic tangy flavor that defines Sloppy Joes.

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth and umami flavor.

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar – Provides a subtle sweetness to balance the tanginess.

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For an extra layer of flavor.

• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the savory flavor of the dish.

• 1 teaspoon mustard – Use yellow or Dijon mustard to add a slight zing.

• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.

For the Biscuit Layer:

• 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough – This makes the biscuit layer quick and easy. You can also use homemade biscuit dough if preferred.

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Adds a melty, cheesy layer that binds the casserole together.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once the beef is browned and cooked through, drain any excess fat to ensure the casserole isn’t greasy.

• Tip: For extra flavor, leave a small amount of the beef fat in the skillet to sauté the vegetables. This will enhance the overall taste of the casserole.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir occasionally and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables soften. The onions should become translucent, and the peppers will release their natural sweetness.

• Variation: You can also add chopped mushrooms for added texture and flavor or swap the bell pepper for another color, such as red or yellow.

Step 3: Add the Sauces and Seasonings

Once the vegetables are tender, it’s time to build the Sloppy Joe sauce. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer over low heat.

• Tip: Let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it cook a little longer to reduce and thicken.

Step 4: Prepare the Biscuit Dough

While the Sloppy Joe mixture is simmering, open the can of biscuits. Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to cut each biscuit into quarters, creating small, bite-sized pieces that will be placed on top of the Sloppy Joe mixture.

• Tip: If you prefer a more rustic feel, you can break the biscuits into pieces with your hands instead of cutting them.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coat of olive oil. Spread the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Then, layer the biscuit pieces on top of the sauce, ensuring they cover the entire surface.

• Tip: Press the biscuit pieces gently into the sauce so they soak up some of the flavor while baking.

Step 6: Add the Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the biscuit layer. This will create a golden, melty cheese topping as the casserole bakes. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown, and the cheese is bubbly and melted.

• Tip: If you want the top to be extra crispy, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, but be careful not to burn the cheese.

Variations to Try

The beauty of Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole lies in its versatility. You can easily customize this recipe based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

1. Spicy Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole

If you love a bit of heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the Sloppy Joe mixture. This will give the casserole an extra spicy kick.

2. Vegetarian Option

Swap out the ground beef for lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute like tempeh or Beyond Meat. These options will give you the same texture and savory flavor without the meat.

3. Cheese Variations

While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or sharp gouda. Each cheese will bring a unique flavor to the casserole.

4. Make It a One-Pot Meal

For a more complete meal, add some frozen peas, corn, or carrots to the Sloppy Joe filling. This will add extra nutrition and flavor while eliminating the need for additional side dishes.

Cooking Notes

• Prepping in Advance: You can prepare the Sloppy Joe mixture and biscuit dough ahead of time. Store the beef mixture in the fridge for up to 2 days and refrigerate the biscuit dough until ready to bake. When you’re ready, simply assemble and bake.

• Freezing the Casserole: To make this dish ahead of time and freeze it, assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

• For a Richer Sauce: If you want a thicker, richer sauce, let the Sloppy Joe mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes to reduce. The longer the sauce simmers, the more flavorful it becomes.

Serving Suggestions

Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs well with a variety of sides to make your dinner even more satisfying.

1. Garlic Bread

Pairing this casserole with crispy garlic bread will complement the rich flavors and provide a nice crunch against the softness of the biscuits.

2. Fresh Green Salad

A light green salad with crisp lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette will help balance the heaviness of the casserole. The fresh vegetables add a refreshing contrast.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Serve with roasted broccoli, green beans, or carrots for a nutritious, flavorful side dish. Roasted vegetables are a healthy complement to the richness of the casserole.

Tips for Perfect Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole

• Check Biscuit Doneness: Make sure the biscuits are fully cooked through before serving. You can test this by inserting a toothpick into the center of a biscuit – if it comes out clean, they are done.

• Add Extra Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, don’t be shy with the cheese! Adding a bit more on top during the last few minutes of baking can give you a gooey, cheesy finish.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, skip the jalapeños or hot sauce. However, if you like a bold flavor, feel free to double up on the hot sauce or add cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 380

• Protein: 20g

• Sodium: 800mg

• Saturated Fat: 10g

• Unsaturated Fat: 8g

• Trans Fat: 1g

• Carbohydrates: 25g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 8g

• Cholesterol: 50mg

FAQs

Can I Make Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the Sloppy Joe filling and biscuit dough a day or two in advance. Simply store the filling in the fridge and assemble the casserole just before baking. This is a great time-saver for busy nights.

Can I Use Homemade Biscuits Instead of Canned Dough?

Absolutely! You can use homemade biscuit dough if you prefer a fresher, more homemade taste. Just make sure the dough is cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

Can I Freeze This Casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole is the ultimate comfort food – simple, hearty, and full of flavor. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that will please even the pickiest eaters. This dish is versatile, easy to customize, and makes great leftovers. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping a meal for the week ahead, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal that everyone will love!