Name: Sloppy Joe Bubble-Up Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 1 (15 oz) can Sloppy Joe sauce; 1 (16.3 oz) can refrigerated biscuits; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

A comforting twist on a nostalgic American classic, this Sloppy Joe Bubble-Up Casserole combines everything I love about traditional Sloppy Joes—savory, saucy ground beef and melty cheddar cheese—then bakes it all together with fluffy, golden biscuit bites. It’s hearty, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to please a crowd, this one hits all the right notes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb lean ground beef

1 small onion, diced

½ teaspoon garlic powder

1 (15 oz) can Sloppy Joe sauce

1 (16.3 oz) can refrigerated biscuits

1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Then I cook the ground beef and diced onion in a skillet over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. I make sure to drain any excess fat.

Next, I stir in the Sloppy Joe sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and let it simmer for about 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors.

I cut the biscuits into quarters and gently fold them into the beef mixture until they’re all coated.

After that, I pour everything into the baking dish and spread it out evenly.

I sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and bake the casserole uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden and cooked through.

Once it’s out of the oven, I like to garnish it with a little chopped parsley for a fresh finish and serve it warm.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 6

Calories per serving: Approximately 420 kcal

Variations

I sometimes swap out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack or a Mexican blend to add a little extra spice.

For a veggie boost, I like mixing in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms when cooking the meat.

When I want to change things up, I use turkey or plant-based crumbles instead of ground beef.

Adding a few dashes of hot sauce or crushed red pepper gives it a little heat if I’m in the mood.

To make it creamier, I stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese into the meat mixture before baking.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I use the oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes until warmed through. If I want to freeze it, I let it cool completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze it for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do I know when the biscuits are fully cooked?

I check that the biscuit pieces on top are golden brown and firm to the touch. If I’m unsure, I gently lift a piece in the center to make sure it’s not doughy underneath.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the meat mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. When I’m ready to bake, I mix in the biscuits and top it with cheese before putting it in the oven.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

I usually go with sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but any melting cheese like mozzarella, Colby jack, or Monterey jack works well.

Can I use homemade biscuit dough?

Absolutely. If I have homemade biscuit dough on hand, I cut it into small pieces and use it just like the refrigerated kind. I just keep an eye on the baking time.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes, I freeze either the whole baked casserole or individual portions. I wrap it tightly and label it, then thaw and reheat when I need a quick meal.

Conclusion

This Sloppy Joe Bubble-Up Casserole has become one of my favorite go-to comfort meals. It’s easy to make, hearty, and packed with the flavors I love from the classic sandwich—but with a delicious baked twist. Whether I’m feeding my family or prepping for busy nights, this dish never lets me down.

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