Sloppy Joe Manwich Casserole

Sloppy Joe Casserole is the kind of hearty comfort food that always wins over a crowd. With its saucy filling, tender pasta, and gooey layer of cheese, it is a fusion of childhood favorites that comes together fast for busy nights. My family always lights up when they see that bubbly golden top come out of the oven, because it means everyone is about to dig in and get messy in the best way.

The first time I brought this to a neighborhood cookout it disappeared faster than anything else on the table. Now friends always ask for the recipe and talk about the savory sweet flavors and cheesy layer.

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: picks up all the tangy Manwich flavor and stays juicy look for an 85 percent lean cut for best texture
• Yellow onion: brings a touch of sweetness and a gentle crunch choose a firm onion with shining skin
• Manwich sauce: classic tang and bold flavor no need for extra seasoning
• Farfalle pasta: adds bite and soaks up all the sauciness cook just to al dente so it holds up in the oven
• Shredded Velveeta: for that creamy melt and signature smoothness grate your own for the best melt
• Colby Jack cheese: crowns the top for cheesy gooey pulls buy a block and shred it yourself for better melting

Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onion:

In a large pot set over medium high heat crumble and cook the ground beef with diced onion. Take your time and stir until the beef is deeply browned with the onions turning soft and translucent. This builds the savory backbone of the casserole. Drain off the extra grease before the next step.

Combine Everything:

Return the beef and onion mixture to your pot. Pour in both cans of Manwich sauce plus the al dente farfalle pasta. Sprinkle in the shredded Velveeta. Stir slowly until the cheese melts and everything turns saucy and creamy. Be sure every piece of pasta gets coated and cheesy.

Assemble in a Baking Dish:

Spoon the mixture evenly into a greased 9 by 13 inch baking dish. Use the back of a spoon to level the top and nudge the filling into every corner so you get neat portions later.

Top with Colby Jack:

Generously sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese over every inch of the casserole. Aim for an even layer so every bite gets that gooey topping once baked.

Bake to Perfection:

Place your assembled dish in a preheated 350°F oven. Let it bake uncovered for about twenty five minutes until you see the cheese turn golden and bubbly. This caramelizes the cheese and helps the flavors meld together.

Rest and Serve:

Remove from the oven and let the casserole settle for five to ten minutes. This resting stage allows the cheese to set for cleaner serving and gives the filling time to thicken.

When I was a kid my mom always joked that this cheese could fix any recipe. I now appreciate how it turns a classic Sloppy Joe into a bubbly casserole that is as comforting as a big hug at the table.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers just cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to three days. For best reheating, scoop out a serving into a microwave safe bowl and cover with a damp paper towel so the cheese stays soft and creamy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground turkey for ground beef for a lighter option that still tastes hearty. If you prefer a different cheese blend Monterey Jack or mozzarella will also melt beautifully. For gluten free needs use your favorite gluten free pasta cooked al dente.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole really shines with a simple green salad or crisp coleslaw to cut the richness. For a fun twist serve with bread and make Sloppy Joe Casserole sandwiches. My family loves this on a game day buffet since it stays warm and is easy to scoop onto plates.

Cultural Touch

Sloppy Joes have always been a staple in American kitchens especially for busy families. Turning the classic sandwich into a pasta bake is a modern twist that allows everyone to grab a serving without the need for buns and napkins. I love how this version lets the flavors meld and brings back childhood memories of weeknight dinners at my grandma’s house.

This comforting casserole is perfect for weeknights and always wows a crowd. Try it once and it will become a family tradition.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, you can substitute farfalle with penne, rotini, or any similar pasta that holds sauce well.

→ Is there a substitute for Velveeta cheese?

Cream cheese or another processed melting cheese can be used for a similar creamy texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn can be added with the onions for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ Is it possible to make this ahead of time?

Assemble in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, adding a few more minutes as needed.