Comfort food casseroles hold a special place in the heart of many home cooks. These warm, hearty dishes are a staple in family kitchens, known for their simplicity, convenience, and ability to feed a crowd. Whether it’s a potluck, a family gathering, or just a regular weeknight dinner, casseroles often bring people together with their rich flavors and comforting appeal. They offer the ultimate convenience of a one-dish meal, making them a lifesaver for busy weeknights when time is short, but a satisfying meal is still desired.
One casserole that stands out for its unique twist on a classic is the Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole. This dish takes the beloved flavors of a Sloppy Joe—savory ground beef simmered in a tangy, slightly sweet sauce—and combines them with the soft, flaky texture of biscuits and the richness of melted cheddar cheese. The result is a comforting casserole that merges the bold, nostalgic taste of a Sloppy Joe with the convenience and heartiness of a biscuit-topped bake. With its savory meat mixture, fluffy biscuits, and gooey melted cheese, the Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole is an instant hit that’s perfect for feeding the whole family with minimal fuss.
Ingredients Breakdown
Each ingredient in the Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole plays an essential role in creating a balance of flavors and textures, resulting in a delicious, hearty dish.
Ground Beef: This is the foundation of the casserole, providing rich, savory flavor. Lean ground beef (90% lean) offers a healthier option with less fat, but regular ground beef (80% lean) brings more flavor and juiciness. For those looking for alternatives, ground turkey or plant-based meat substitutes work well and can cater to various dietary preferences.
Ketchup: Acting as the base of the Sloppy Joe sauce, ketchup provides sweetness, tang, and a bit of acidity. Its balanced flavor profile makes it a staple in classic Sloppy Joe recipes. For a healthier or more customized approach, tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes with added spices can be used.
Brown Sugar: A touch of brown sugar enhances the sweetness of the sauce, balancing the acidity of the ketchup and mustard. You can adjust the amount based on personal taste, using more for a sweeter sauce or omitting it for a tangier version.
Worcestershire Sauce: This ingredient adds depth and complexity to the sauce with its umami-rich flavor. It’s irreplaceable for the signature taste, but soy sauce or tamari can be used as alternatives for a similar savory note.
Mustard: Mustard provides a sharp, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the beef. Classic yellow mustard is commonly used, but Dijon or spicy mustard can offer a more intense flavor variation.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These powders are convenient staples that add bold, aromatic flavors without the need for fresh ingredients. If preferred, minced garlic and sautéed onions can be used for a fresher, more vibrant taste.
Salt: Essential for seasoning the dish, salt enhances all the flavors in the casserole. Careful balancing is important, especially since the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce already contain sodium.
Biscuits: Pre-packaged refrigerated biscuits are a quick and easy option, offering fluffy, tender dough that complements the savory filling. For a homemade touch, biscuit dough can be made from scratch, or even crescent rolls can be used for a lighter, flakier texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese brings a rich, tangy flavor and melts beautifully over the casserole. Using sharp cheddar ensures that the cheese stands out against the other strong flavors. Other cheeses like mozzarella, Colby Jack, or even pepper jack can be substituted for different flavor profiles, offering more creaminess or a bit of spice.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Preheating the Oven
Proper preheating is key to baking casseroles evenly, ensuring that both the meat mixture and biscuits cook thoroughly. When preparing a casserole like the Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole, preheating the oven to 350°F allows the ingredients to bake evenly without overcooking or drying out. This moderate temperature ensures that the biscuits rise and turn golden brown while the cheese melts perfectly. Preheating your oven fully before placing the casserole inside also helps to maintain consistency in baking times, ensuring your casserole is perfectly cooked throughout.
Cooking the Ground Beef
Cooking ground beef properly is essential to the texture and flavor of the casserole. Start by heating a skillet over medium heat, adding the ground beef to the pan once it’s hot. As the beef cooks, break it apart into small crumbles using a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, which usually takes about 7-10 minutes, then drain any excess fat. This helps to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy. To enhance flavor, lightly season the beef with salt and pepper during cooking.
For a leaner option, use 90% lean ground beef or ground turkey, which reduces fat content but still provides the same delicious taste. For vegetarians, you can substitute plant-based ground beef alternatives or even cooked lentils or mushrooms for a similar texture and flavor.
Preparing the Sloppy Joe Mixture
Once the beef is fully cooked and drained, it’s time to create the Sloppy Joe mixture. Add ¾ cup ketchup to the skillet, followed by ¼ cup of water to thin the sauce slightly. Stir in 3 teaspoons of brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce, 2 teaspoons of mustard, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Mix everything together until well combined.
The ketchup acts as the base of the sauce, providing tangy sweetness, while the brown sugar adds a touch of caramelized richness. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can increase the brown sugar slightly; for a tangier version, add a bit more mustard. Worcestershire sauce deepens the umami flavors, and garlic and onion powders provide subtle yet essential aromatic notes.
Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, which gives the flavors time to meld together. Simmering also thickens the sauce, ensuring it clings to the meat and provides a rich coating for the biscuits. If you prefer a thicker consistency, let the mixture simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes; if it’s too thick, you can thin it with a little more water.
Taste the mixture before assembling the casserole to adjust the seasoning. For more sweetness, add a little more brown sugar. If you like a spicier dish, you can include hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes. This stage allows you to customize the flavor profile to your personal preference, ensuring the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.
Combining and Baking the Casserole
Mixing Biscuits and Meat Mixture
One of the key steps in making the Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole is properly mixing the quartered biscuits with the Sloppy Joe meat mixture. For maximum flavor, it’s important to ensure each biscuit piece is thoroughly coated with the savory sauce. This allows the biscuits to soak up the rich flavors of the meat and sauce as they bake, ensuring a cohesive and flavorful dish.
When cutting biscuits into quarters, try to keep the pieces uniform in size to ensure even baking. Over-mixing the dough can cause the biscuits to lose their light, fluffy texture, so mix gently to avoid toughening the dough.
If you’re looking for alternatives, crescent rolls can be used for a flakier texture, pie dough for a heartier option, or even cooked pasta for a non-biscuit variation. Each of these substitutions will provide a different but delicious twist to the casserole.
Assembling the Casserole
Once the biscuits are mixed with the meat, transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, ensuring that the biscuit pieces are distributed throughout the dish for even baking. This ensures that every bite has a balance of both biscuit and meat mixture.
Next, top the casserole with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Shredding your own cheese from a block is recommended, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly shredded cheese will create a gooey, melty layer that complements the dish perfectly.
For added flavor, you can customize the casserole by adding toppings such as chopped green onions, jalapeños for a bit of heat, or crispy bacon pieces for extra richness. These toppings provide additional texture and flavor to enhance the overall experience.
Baking Instructions
Once the casserole is assembled, place it in the preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 28-30 minutes. During this time, the biscuits will rise and become golden brown while the cheese melts and turns bubbly. To ensure the casserole is done, check that the biscuits are fully cooked and not doughy in the center. You can do this by inserting a toothpick into the biscuits—if it comes out clean, they’re done.
If you prefer crispier biscuits, you can extend the baking time by a few minutes, but be careful not to over-bake, as this could cause the cheese to burn or the dish to dry out. If you find the top browning too quickly while the inside still needs more time, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the biscuits and cheese from overcooking while allowing the center to bake fully.
If your oven runs hotter or cooler than usual, you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly. Softer, fluffier biscuits can be achieved by sticking to the lower end of the bake time, while crispier biscuits may require a few extra minutes. By paying close attention to the casserole as it bakes, you’ll ensure the perfect combination of gooey cheese, fluffy biscuits, and flavorful meat in every bite.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Serving Tips
When it’s time to serve the Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole, consider portioning it into squares using a spatula for easy serving. The casserole holds together well, making it perfect for individual servings. Pair this rich, hearty dish with lighter, refreshing sides to balance the flavors. A crisp coleslaw with a tangy dressing provides a fresh contrast to the savory casserole. Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts, add a healthy side option, while a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the beef and cheese.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the portion with aluminum foil and bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This helps retain the texture and prevents the biscuits from becoming soggy. Alternatively, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave, but the biscuits may lose some of their crispness.
Possible Variations
The Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole can be easily customized to suit different tastes. For a spicy version, add chopped jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes to the Sloppy Joe mixture for an extra kick of heat.
For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat, or use protein-rich alternatives like cooked lentils, black beans, or chickpeas. The sauce will still deliver the bold flavors of a Sloppy Joe without the meat.
If you want to experiment with different cheeses, mozzarella will create a stringier texture, while pepper jack adds a spicy note.
For a taco-style twist, mix taco seasoning into the beef and top the finished casserole with sour cream, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime for a fun, Mexican-inspired version.
Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
Common Mistakes
When making Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. One is over-mixing the biscuits with the meat mixture, which can cause them to become soggy or tough. It’s important to toss the biscuits gently with the sauce to avoid breaking down the dough. Another frequent issue is under-cooking the biscuits, leading to a doughy or uncooked center. Always check the biscuits for doneness by inserting a toothpick or gently pressing on the top—if they feel firm and springy, they’re done.
Overcooking the beef or the entire casserole can lead to a dry, less flavorful dish. Cooking the beef just until it’s no longer pink, and avoiding over-baking, ensures the meat stays juicy. It’s also crucial not to bake the casserole for too long, as this can dry out both the meat and biscuits, causing the dish to lose its comforting texture.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your biscuits are too soggy, try baking the casserole uncovered to allow steam to escape, which helps the biscuits develop a crispy, golden top. Alternatively, you can pre-bake the biscuits for a few minutes before adding them to the mixture.
If the casserole turns out too dry, you can add moisture by stirring in more cheese during baking or incorporating a small amount of broth into the meat mixture. This helps reintroduce moisture and prevents the casserole from becoming too crumbly or overcooked.
Nutritional Information
A typical serving of Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole provides a hearty balance of macronutrients. For a standard portion size, the casserole is estimated to contain approximately:
- Calories: 400-450 kcal
- Fat: 20-25g (depending on the type of beef and amount of cheese used)
- Protein: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Sodium: 800-900mg (mainly from ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and cheese)
To make the dish lighter, consider using lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) or ground turkey as a lower-fat alternative. You can also reduce the amount of cheese used or opt for a lighter cheese like reduced-fat cheddar. Additionally, using whole-wheat biscuits or even a cauliflower crust instead of traditional biscuits can reduce carbohydrates and increase fiber, making the casserole a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. Reducing the brown sugar in the sauce will also lower the overall calorie content, especially if you’re aiming for a less sweet dish.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole ahead of time. Assemble the meat mixture and biscuits in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, then bake as directed. If the casserole was chilled, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can switch it up based on your taste preferences. Mozzarella provides a creamier, stringy texture, while pepper jack adds a spicy kick. For a bolder flavor, feta can be crumbled on top for a tangy, salty contrast. Experimenting with various cheeses can give the casserole a unique twist and elevate its flavor profile.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, you can use ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative instead of ground beef. Opt for reduced-fat or light cheddar cheese to cut down on fat content, and swap out traditional biscuits for whole wheat or reduced-fat varieties. You can also reduce the amount of cheese used or include additional vegetables to bulk up the meal while lowering calories.
Can I freeze Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole?
Yes, the casserole can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual. If freezing leftovers, store them in airtight containers, and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. To maintain biscuit texture, avoid reheating in the microwave.
What sides go well with this casserole?
This rich casserole pairs well with light, refreshing sides. Coleslaw with a tangy dressing, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts help balance the meal. These sides offer contrast in texture and flavor, cutting through the richness of the casserole.
How do I prevent the biscuits from becoming soggy?
To prevent soggy biscuits, you can pre-bake them slightly before combining them with the meat mixture. Another technique is to bake the casserole uncovered, allowing excess moisture to evaporate and keeping the biscuits light and crispy.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach is a great way to incorporate more nutrients into the dish without altering its flavor. Sauté the vegetables first to remove excess moisture and fold them into the meat mixture before assembling the casserole. This adds extra texture and nutrition without compromising the dish’s hearty appeal.

Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole
Description
The Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of a Sloppy Joe with the soft, fluffy texture of biscuits and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-dish meal is simple to make and sure to please the whole family. The savory, tangy beef mixture is balanced by the slightly sweet and tender biscuit topping, making every bite a perfect combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal prep time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 teaspoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 12 oz biscuits, cut into quarters
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess fat.
- Prepare the Sloppy Joe Mixture: Add ketchup, water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine with Biscuits: Remove the skillet from heat. In a medium bowl, gently toss the quartered biscuit pieces with the meat mixture until evenly coated, being careful not to over-mix.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the meat and biscuit mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake the casserole for 28-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Customization: Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the Sloppy Joe mixture for a boost of nutrition. For a spicier version, mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cheese Alternatives: While sharp cheddar provides a rich flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a creamy texture, or pepper jack for a little kick.
- Storage and Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to preserve the texture of the biscuits, or microwave for a quick meal, although the biscuits may soften.
- Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole and cover tightly with foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.