Description
Hearty sloppy joe cornbread casserole brings comfort food to new levels with its perfect blend of zesty ground beef and sweet cornbread. Savory layers meld together, creating a satisfying meal that promises warmth and flavor in every single bite you’ll enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef (or ground turkey)
Sauce and Bread Base:
- 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) sloppy joe sauce (or homemade sauce)
- 1 box (8.5 ounces / 241 grams) jiffy cornbread mix
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 egg
- 2/3 cup (160 milliliters) milk
- 1/2 cup (50 grams) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking environment by heating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and coating a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until thoroughly browned, ensuring no pink remains. Carefully drain accumulated fat.
- Pour Sloppy Joe sauce into the skillet with the beef, stirring to coat evenly. Allow the mixture to gently simmer and develop rich flavors for approximately 5 minutes.
- Create the cornbread topping by whisking together cornbread mix, egg, milk, and shredded cheese in a mixing bowl. Mix until ingredients are just incorporated, avoiding overmixing.
- Distribute the seasoned beef mixture uniformly across the prepared baking dish, creating an even foundational layer.
- Carefully pour the cornbread batter over the beef, using a spatula to spread it gently and ensure complete coverage.
- Transfer the casserole to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for a golden-brown cornbread top and a set center.
- Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes, which helps the layers settle and makes serving easier. Slice into portions and serve while still warm.
Notes
- Drain the ground beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy casserole and ensure a crisp cornbread topping.
- Customize the Sloppy Joe sauce by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.
- For a leaner version, swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based ground meat alternative to reduce fat content.
- Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a crispy, golden cheese crust that adds irresistible texture and richness.
- Prep Time: 10minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg