5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe

Featured in: Comfort Plates

This comforting casserole blends savory ground beef with tangy Sloppy Joe sauce and mixed vegetables. Layers of soft bread cubes and melted cheddar create a satisfying, hearty dish ready in under an hour. Ideal for easy weeknight dinners, this version relies on just five ingredients and simple preparation steps to deliver classic flavors. Adjust protein or spice levels to suit your taste, then bake until bubbly and golden.

Updated on Fri, 21 Nov 2025 15:22:00 GMT
A bubbly 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole, cheesy and steaming, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Save
A bubbly 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole, cheesy and steaming, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. | tastychuck.com

A family-friendly comforting casserole that delivers all the tangy savory flavors of classic Sloppy Joes with minimal effort and just five pantry staples.

This recipe quickly became a favorite in my household for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

  • Protein: 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
  • Sauce & Seasoning: 1 (15 oz/425 g) can sloppy joe sauce (such as Manwich)
  • Vegetables: 1 cup (120 g) frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn), thawed
  • Bread Layer: 4 cups (about 5 6 slices) soft sandwich bread, cubed
  • Cheese: 1½ cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
Step 2:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon (about 6 8 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3:
Stir in the sloppy joe sauce and thawed mixed vegetables. Simmer for 2 3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 4:
Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the beef mixture over the bread, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 6:
Bake uncovered for 20 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the casserole is hot throughout.
Step 7:
Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Golden and browned, this 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole shows off tender bread and melted cheese toppings. Save
Golden and browned, this 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole shows off tender bread and melted cheese toppings. | tastychuck.com

Making this casserole always brings everyone together around the dinner table.

Notes

For a lighter version substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef. Add sliced pickled jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Swap sandwich bread for slider buns or use whole wheat bread for extra fiber.

Required Tools

Large skillet 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish Wooden spoon or spatula Measuring cups

Allergen Information

Contains Wheat (bread) Milk (cheese). May contain Soy (in some sloppy joe sauces). Always check product labels for specific allergens.

See the savory, layered 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole, complete with mixed vegetables and a flavorful sauce. Save
See the savory, layered 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe Casserole, complete with mixed vegetables and a flavorful sauce. | tastychuck.com

This simple casserole is perfect for an easy comforting family meal that everyone will enjoy.

Recipe Guide

Can I use a different protein than ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option while maintaining great flavor.

What bread works best for the casserole?

Soft sandwich bread is ideal, but slider buns or whole wheat bread can be used for variety or added fiber.

How can I add spice to this dish?

Add sliced pickled jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick without overwhelming the dish.

Is it possible to prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the layers and refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving for best results.

What side dishes complement this meal?

A simple green salad pairs well, balancing the rich and savory elements of the casserole.

5-Ingredient Sloppy Joe

Tangy, savory casserole featuring ground beef, mixed veggies, and cheddar cheese in a baked dish.

Prep duration
10 min
Heat time
35 min
Full duration
45 min
Created by Chuck Harrison


Skill level Easy

Heritage American

Output 6 Portions

Nutrition Labels None specified

What you'll need

Protein

01 1 pound ground beef

Sauce & Seasoning

01 1 can (15 oz) sloppy joe sauce

Vegetables

01 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables, thawed

Bread Layer

01 4 cups cubed soft sandwich bread (about 5–6 slices)

Cheese

01 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Method

Phase 01

Preheat oven and prepare dish: Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Phase 02

Cook beef: Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through, breaking up with a spoon, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Phase 03

Combine sauce and vegetables: Stir in sloppy joe sauce and thawed mixed vegetables. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Phase 04

Layer bread and beef mixture: Spread cubed bread evenly in prepared baking dish. Pour beef mixture over bread and spread evenly.

Phase 05

Add cheese topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Phase 06

Bake casserole: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated throughout.

Phase 07

Rest before serving: Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Kitchen tools

  • Large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups

Allergy alerts

Always review ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if unsure
  • Contains wheat and milk.
  • May contain soy depending on sauce brand.

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice
  • Energy: 375
  • Fats: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Proteins: 22 g