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Sloppy Joe Casserole

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This Sloppy Joe Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of Sloppy Joes with the crispy goodness of tater tots. The saucy beef filling is layered with melty cheese and golden tots for an easy weeknight meal!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword sloppy joe casserole
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 6
Author Gayle

Ingredients

  • 1 green bell pepper (diced)
  • ½ sweet onion (diced)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • ½ cup barbecue sauce
  • ¼ cup yellow mustard
  • 2 cups monterey jack shredded cheese (divided)
  • 32 ounces frozen tater tots

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 425℉. Lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add green pepper and onions and saute for 6-8 minutes, or until softened.
  • Add ground beef to skillet, along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook and crumble beef until no longer pink. Drain grease, if needed.
  • Add sugar, vinegar, ketchup, barbecue sauce, and mustard to skillet. Stir well to combine, then bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer on low for 4-5 minutes. *If you feel the mixture needs to be more saucy, add a few more tablespoons of ketchup and/or barbecue sauce.*
  • Spoon beef mixture into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheese evenly over mixture. Place tater tots in an even, single layer on top of cheese. Then top with remaining cheese.
  • Bake for 25-28 minute, or until tots are cooked through and golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes, then serve.

Notes

  • Leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
  • Any kind of shredded cheese works well in this recipe. I also love using pepper jack, mozzarella, or shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
  • See my tips and tricks for making this Sloppy Joe Casserole above the recipe box.