Introduction

Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory ground beef in a tangy sauce with fluffy golden biscuits and melted cheddar cheese. It’s a perfect, hearty meal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and easy to prepare.

A close-up of a biscuit sandwich cut in half, showing three layers: the top is a golden brown, fluffy biscuit with a slightly crispy texture and melted orange cheddar cheese on top, sprinkled with chopped green herbs. The middle layer is rich, thick ground beef chili with a dark reddish-brown color and a chunky texture. The bottom layer is the same golden biscuit base, soft and airy. The chili sauce spills over the sides onto a white plate with a slightly rough texture and a thin, worn brown rim, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
1 small yellow onion, diced finely
1 red bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 can (16.3 ounces) refrigerated biscuit dough
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing biscuits)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks until browned and no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes.
Step 3: Drain most of the excess fat from the skillet, leaving about one tablespoon to keep the mixture moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet, cooking for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions turn translucent.
Step 5: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 6: Pour in the tomato sauce, then add brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Step 7: Reduce heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens like traditional sloppy joe filling.
Step 8: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Step 9: Separate the biscuit dough into individual biscuits and arrange them over the meat mixture, spacing them slightly apart to allow for expansion.
Step 10: If desired, brush the tops of the biscuits with melted butter for extra richness and a golden finish.
Step 11: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 12: Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the biscuit tops. Return to the oven for 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
Step 13: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to allow the filling to set slightly for easier serving.
Step 14: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef to lighten the dish without sacrificing flavor.
For a smoky BBQ twist, replace half the tomato sauce with barbecue sauce and add a teaspoon of liquid smoke.
Add black beans, corn, and diced green chiles for a southwestern flair; swap cheddar for a Mexican cheese blend.
Brush biscuits with melted butter for a richer crust and golden color.
Top with crispy fried onions during the last few minutes of baking for extra crunch and flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through.

How to Serve

A close-up of two biscuit halves stacked with a layer of thick, rich chili in the middle, topped with melted bright orange cheddar cheese that drips down the sides. The biscuits are golden brown and fluffy with a slightly crumbly texture, while the chili has a deep reddish-brown color with visible ground meat pieces, soaking into the biscuit base and spreading out around the plate. Fresh green chopped herbs are sprinkled on top, adding a pop of color to the warm, hearty dish, all set on a white plate on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade biscuit dough instead of canned?

Yes, homemade biscuit dough works great and can add a personal touch to the casserole. Just be sure the biscuits are spaced to allow for rising and bake until golden brown.

Can I freeze this casserole?

It is best to freeze the meat mixture separately before adding biscuits and cheese. After thawing and reheating the meat, add fresh biscuit dough and cheese, then bake as directed for best texture.