Sloppy Joe Casserole with Dinner Rolls: A Comfort Food Delight

Introduction

Sloppy Joes are a nostalgic favorite, bringing back childhood memories of messy, saucy sandwiches. But what if you could elevate this classic dish into an easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks? Enter Sloppy Joe Casserole with Dinner Rolls—a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the rich flavors of Sloppy Joes with the soft, buttery goodness of dinner rolls.

This recipe transforms the beloved sandwich into a one-pan meal, with golden-brown dinner rolls topping a hearty and flavorful Sloppy Joe filling. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or looking for a unique dish to impress guests, this casserole is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup tomato sauce

• 1/4 cup ketchup

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Casserole:

• 12 dinner rolls (Hawaiian rolls or any soft dinner rolls work best)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling

1. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat.

2. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink.

3. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables soften.

4. Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

5. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Lightly grease a baking dish and pour the prepared Sloppy Joe mixture into the bottom of the dish.

3. Sprinkle an even layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the meat mixture.

4. Arrange the dinner rolls on top of the casserole, covering the entire surface.

Step 3: Add the Buttery Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley.

2. Brush the butter mixture generously over the tops of the dinner rolls.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 10 minutes.

2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted.

3. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Use fresh dinner rolls: Soft and fluffy rolls work best as they absorb the flavors without becoming too soggy.

• Try different cheeses: Cheddar is a great choice, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend.

• Make it ahead: Prepare the Sloppy Joe mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.

• Add some heat: If you like a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use canned Sloppy Joe sauce instead of making my own? A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a can of store-bought Sloppy Joe sauce works just fine. However, making it from scratch allows you to adjust the flavors to your liking.

Q: Can I make this casserole with ground turkey or chicken? A: Yes! Ground turkey or chicken is a great lean alternative to beef and still tastes delicious with the Sloppy Joe sauce.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or microwave individual portions.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, you can! Assemble the casserole without the butter topping, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, add the butter topping, and bake as directed.

Q: What can I serve with Sloppy Joe Casserole? A: This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or even crispy fries for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Sloppy Joe Casserole with Dinner Rolls is an easy, comforting, and family-friendly dish that takes the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich to the next level. With its flavorful filling, cheesy goodness, and buttery rolls, this casserole is bound to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family. Enjoy your delicious, no-fuss dinner!