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:
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - 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. - 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. - Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. - Add Crescent Roll Dough:
Unroll the crescent roll dough and lay it over the beef mixture, pinching the seams together to cover the filling. - Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent roll dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. - 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:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or use a mix of black beans, mushrooms, and lentils for a meatless version.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for some heat.
- Cheese Swap: Replace cheddar cheese with mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavors.
- Add Vegetables: Include chopped zucchini, carrots, or spinach for a nutrient boost.
- 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:
- 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. - 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. - What can I serve with this casserole?
A green salad, steamed vegetables, or coleslaw would pair nicely with this hearty casserole. - 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. - How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes, chili powder, or hot sauce to the beef mixture. - Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels will add a delightful crunch and sweetness to the dish. - 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. - What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese melts well and adds a sharp flavor, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. - 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. - 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!