Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich

This Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich is a delightful twist on the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich, turned into a comforting and cheesy baked dish. With layers of savory ground beef, tangy Sloppy Joe sauce, melty cheddar cheese, and golden crescent roll dough, this casserole is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner that the whole family will love!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 ounces) Manwich Sloppy Joe Sauce
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 1 cup cooked pasta (optional for extra heartiness)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Beef:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in the chopped onion and bell pepper, and cook until tender.
3. Add the Sauce:
   Stir in the Manwich Sloppy Joe Sauce and frozen corn. If using pasta, add it to the mixture. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
5. Add Crescent Roll Dough:
   Unroll the crescent roll dough and lay it over the beef mixture, pinching the seams together to cover the filling.
6. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent roll dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
7. Serve:
   Allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing:

• Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Calorie Count: Approximately 400 kcal per serving

Variations:

1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or use a mix of black beans, mushrooms, and lentils for a meatless version.
2. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for some heat.
3. Cheese Swap: Replace cheddar cheese with mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavors.
4. Add Vegetables: Include chopped zucchini, carrots, or spinach for a nutrient boost.
5. Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free crescent roll dough or substitute with mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash on top.

Storage and Reheating:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of sauce?
   Yes, you can use any brand of Sloppy Joe sauce or make a homemade version with ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. What can I serve with this casserole?
   A green salad, steamed vegetables, or coleslaw would pair nicely with this hearty casserole.
4. Can I use a different type of dough?
   Yes, you can use biscuit dough, pie crust, or puff pastry as an alternative to crescent roll dough.
5. How can I make this casserole spicier?
   Add extra red pepper flakes, chili powder, or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
6. Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
   Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels will add a delightful crunch and sweetness to the dish.
7. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can cook the beef mixture in a slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours and then transfer it to a baking dish to add the crescent dough and bake.
8. What type of cheese works best?
   Cheddar cheese melts well and adds a sharp flavor, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses.
9. Can I add beans to this casserole?
   Yes, adding a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or black beans will enhance the heartiness of the dish.
10. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
    Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner option.

Conclusion:

The Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a gathering, this cheesy, hearty casserole will satisfy everyone at the table. Customize it to your liking and enjoy the delicious combination of savory beef, tangy sauce, and buttery crescent rolls!

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