If you’ve ever loved the classic comfort of a Sloppy Joe but wished for a cozy, homey twist, then you are going to adore this Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe. It takes that hearty, flavorful sloppy joe filling and pairs it with a warm, golden cornbread topping, making every spoonful a delightful mix of savory and slightly sweet textures. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, offering an inviting, filling meal that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe is surprisingly simple because the ingredients are straightforward yet deeply satisfying. Each component plays a vital role: the cornbread mix creates a tender, slightly crumbly topping, the eggs and milk add softness and bind, while the seasoned ground beef mixed with Manwich sauce brings that signature sloppy joe tang and richness.
- Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix (2 boxes): This classic boxed mix provides a quick and easy cornbread base with just the right crumb and sweetness.
- Large eggs (2): Eggs act as the binding agent making your cornbread light and fluffy.
- Milk (â…” cup): Milk helps make the cornbread batter smooth and moist.
- Ground beef (1 lb): The hearty protein is the soul of the sloppy joe filling, giving that rich meaty foundation.
- Manwich Sloppy Joe Sauce (15 oz can): This tangy, slightly sweet sauce brings authentic sloppy joe flavor and perfectly dresses the beef.
How to Make Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish well, because this will help the casserole easily release after baking and gives you those beautiful edges everyone loves.
Step 2: Make Cornbread Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine your box of Jiffy corn muffin mix with the eggs and milk. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This simple batter will become the golden, tender topping that contrasts perfectly with the savory meat below.
Step 3: Make Sloppy Joe Filling
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula. Once nicely browned and no longer pink, drain off any excess grease to keep things from getting too greasy. Then, pour in the can of Manwich Sloppy Joe sauce and let it simmer for about five minutes so the flavors meld beautifully and it thickens just enough.
Step 4: Assemble Casserole
Now for the fun part: spreading the sloppy joe mixture evenly across your prepared baking dish. Once it’s nice and even, gently spread your cornbread batter on top, making sure to cover the filling fully with a smooth layer. This layering is key—it allows the savory and sweet elements to bake together in perfect harmony.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cornbread has turned a beautiful golden brown shade and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point alone is reason enough to keep this recipe in your rotation.
How to Serve Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can bring a fresh brightness to the rich Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe. Try topping each serving with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and a hint of sharpness that balances the savory depth of the casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands strong on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables adds a lovely contrast in texture and adds a nutritious touch to your meal. Creamy coleslaw is also a classic side that complements the tang of the sloppy joe perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this at a casual gathering, try scooping portions into individual ramekins for a fun, personal twist. Alternatively, you can turn leftover casserole into sandwiches by spooning a slice onto hamburger buns for an irresistible handheld meal that tastes like a warm hug on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe leftovers can be conveniently stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep nicely for 3 to 4 days, making for easy, reheatable meals throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole to enjoy later by placing it in a freezer-safe container or wrapping tightly with foil and plastic wrap. For best flavor and texture, consume within 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but baking helps retain that lovely cornbread texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different brand of sloppy joe sauce?
Absolutely! While Manwich is classic and convenient, feel free to use any sloppy joe sauce you love or even a homemade version. Just ensure it’s thick enough to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Yes! You can swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils and use a vegetarian sloppy joe sauce. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and hearty.
Can I add cheese to the casserole?
Definitely! Adding a layer of shredded cheddar cheese between the sloppy joe filling and cornbread batter or sprinkling some on top before baking creates a wonderfully gooey and flavorful upgrade.
What can I serve this casserole with for a complete meal?
This casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed green beans, a fresh garden salad, or creamy coleslaw to round out the meal with some crunch and freshness.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly before or after baking?
You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking if you’re prepping ahead. Just thaw it completely before baking. Freezing after baking is also great for leftovers, making reheating effortless whenever you need a quick meal.
Final Thoughts
This Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort food done right. Its simple ingredients and straightforward process make it approachable for any home cook, but the results feel special every time. Trust me, once you’ve tried this recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes, perfect for cozy evenings and sharing with those you love.
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Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole combines the classic savory flavors of homemade sloppy joes with a fluffy cornbread topping, baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Cornbread Batter
- 2 (17 oz) boxes Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix
- 2 large eggs
- â…” cup milk
Sloppy Joe Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 (15 oz) can Manwich Sloppy Joe Sauce
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Make Cornbread Batter: In a large bowl, combine the Jiffy corn muffin mix, eggs, and milk. Stir until well blended to form a smooth batter and set aside.
- Make Sloppy Joe Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from being too greasy. Stir in the Manwich Sloppy Joe sauce, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the sloppy joe mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Carefully pour and spread the cornbread batter evenly over the top of the meat mixture.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Notes
- You can substitute Manwich Sloppy Joe sauce with your favorite homemade sloppy joe sauce if preferred.
- For a healthier option, use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
- Make sure to grease the baking dish well to avoid the cornbread sticking to the pan.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
