Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole

Love Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole? This easy-to-make dish is a delightful twist on the classic Sloppy Joe, offering all the savory flavors in a convenient casserole form. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual get-togethers, this meal not only satisfies your hunger but also brings a smile to everyone at the table. With its gooey cheese and tender biscuit topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Kid-Friendly: This casserole combines familiar flavors that kids adore, making it an instant hit with little ones.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you can whip this up quickly, even on busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences without losing flavor.
• One-Pan Wonder: Bake everything in one pan for easy cleanup after your meal.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of spices and cheese creates a warm, hearty dish that feels like a hug in food form.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather these essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9 x 13 baking pan
• Cooking spray
• Medium bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning the meat evenly while allowing for easy stirring of ingredients.
• 9 x 13 baking pan: Perfect size for holding all the delicious ingredients without overflowing during baking.

Ingredients

For the Meat Mixture

• 1 lb ground beef
• 3/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup water
• 3 tsp brown sugar
• 2 tsp worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp mustard
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Casserole Topping

• 12 oz biscuits (cut into quarters)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)

How to Make Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the ground beef and cook until no longer pink.
2. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

To the cooked beef:
1. Stir in ketchup, water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
2. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Remove the meat mixture from heat and pour it into a medium bowl.
2. Add quartered biscuits to the bowl and toss until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Pour the biscuit-meat mixture into your prepared baking pan.
2. Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking pan in your preheated oven:
– Bake for about 28-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this comforting Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole with family and friends!

How to Serve Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole

Serving your Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole can be as fun and creative as making it! This dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides or toppings. Here are some great ways to serve this delicious casserole.

Family Style

• Set the casserole in the center of the table for a communal dining experience. Let everyone scoop out their portions and enjoy together.

Toppings Bar

• Provide a selection of toppings such as chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, or pickles. This allows guests to customize their servings to suit their tastes.

With a Side Salad

• Pairing the casserole with a fresh garden salad adds crunch and freshness. A simple vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the casserole beautifully.

On a Bun

• For an extra twist, serve portions of the casserole on slider buns. This makes for an easy-to-eat, handheld version that kids will love.

In Individual Portions

• Use ramekins to bake individual servings. This presentation is perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.

How to Perfect Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole

To ensure your Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef helps reduce excess grease in your dish, resulting in a healthier casserole.
• Don’t overmix: When combining the biscuit pieces with the meat mixture, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
• Check baking time: Ovens vary; keep an eye on your casserole towards the end of the cooking time to avoid over-baking.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add additional spices like smoked paprika or chili powder for extra flavor.
• Let it cool slightly: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the casserole.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is sweet and complements the savory flavors perfectly.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli brings a healthy element to your plate while adding color.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make an excellent side that everyone loves.
5. Garlic Bread: Soft garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your casserole.
6. Baked Beans: A side of sweet baked beans offers a classic combination that pairs well with sloppy joes.
7. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and add a touch of sweetness after a hearty meal.
8. Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a slightly sweet contrast and are crispy, making them an appealing side choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the meat – Ensure you cook the beef or turkey just until it’s no longer pink. Overcooked meat can become tough and dry.
• Not draining excess fat – It’s important to drain any fat after cooking the meat. Excess grease can make the casserole soggy.
• Ignoring baking time – Keep an eye on the casserole in the oven. Baking too long can lead to burnt edges, while underbaking may leave biscuits raw in the center.
• Using incorrect biscuit size – Make sure to cut your biscuits into quarters as directed. Larger pieces may not cook evenly.
• Skipping cheese topping – The cheese adds flavor and helps bind everything together. Don’t skip it for a less flavorful dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole

• You can freeze this casserole before or after baking.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It will last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave – Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds.
• Stovetop – Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.

What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?

You can replace Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or a mixture of vinegar and sugar for a similar flavor profile.

How can I customize my Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra nutrition. You can also try different types of cheese!

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles for a delicious vegetarian version of this casserole.

Final Thoughts

Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic dish that offers comfort and convenience. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients based on your preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy this easy, crowd-pleasing meal!