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Sloppy Joe Biscuit Casserole Recipe

4.7 from 117 reviews

Savory ground beef cooked in a tangy, slightly sweet sloppy joe sauce, layered in a casserole dish and topped with golden baked biscuits and melted cheddar cheese. This casserole offers the ultimate comforting, easy-to-make dinner perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

Sloppy Joe Filling

  • 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

Biscuit Topping

  • 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

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Brown Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned with no pink remaining.
  3. Drain Fat: Drain most of the excess fat from the skillet, leaving about one tablespoon to keep the mixture moist and flavorful.
  4. Cook Vegetables: Add diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 4-5 minutes until vegetables soften and onions become translucent.
  5. Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
  6. Mix Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, then add brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly.
  7. Simmer Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens to a traditional sloppy joe consistency.
  8. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.
  9. Add Biscuit Layer: Separate the refrigerated biscuit dough into individual biscuits and arrange them over the meat mixture, spacing them slightly apart to allow for expansion while baking.
  10. Brush Biscuits (Optional): If desired, brush the tops of the biscuits with melted butter for a richer flavor and golden brown finish.
  11. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes until biscuits are golden brown and fully cooked through.
  12. Add Cheese: Remove casserole from the oven, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the biscuit tops, and return to the oven for 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
  13. Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set the filling. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
  • Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in a 350°F oven.
  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef to reduce fat content.
  • Add hot sauce or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
  • For BBQ twist, replace half the tomato sauce with barbecue sauce and add liquid smoke; top with fried onions.
  • Incorporate beans, corn, cumin, and Mexican cheese for a Southwestern variation.
  • Use whole wheat or cauliflower biscuit dough for a healthier option.
  • Vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach can be added for extra nutrients.
  • Slow cooker option: cook meat mixture on low 4-6 hours, then top with biscuits and bake.

Keywords: sloppy joe, biscuit casserole, ground beef, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight meal, casserole, baked biscuits, cheddar cheese