Sloppy Joe Casserole

Ah, the comforting taste of a Sloppy Joe casserole, simmered to perfection in a slow cooker—this dish takes me right back to my childhood on the farm. A good Sloppy Joe is like an old friend, always there when you need something hearty and satisfying. We often had this casserole on Saturdays when the chores were done, and it was time to settle in for a family meal. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone together, simple but packed with flavor. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, it's an effortless way to enjoy a taste of the past.

This Sloppy Joe casserole pairs beautifully with some classic Midwestern sides. Consider serving it with a crisp garden salad, some buttery corn on the cob, or a dollop of homemade coleslaw. If you’re feeling extra traditional, a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes would do just the trick. And don’t forget to have a basket of warm, crusty bread on the table to mop up all that delicious sauce! 

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 bag (32 ounces) tater tots
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, green bell pepper, and garlic until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.

2. Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker.

3. Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, and tomato sauce. Mix well.

4. Arrange the tater tots on top of the beef mixture, covering it completely.

5. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.

6. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover and cook until the cheese is melted.

7. Serve warm and enjoy the taste of nostalgia! 

Variations & Tips

You can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. For a little extra kick, add a tablespoon of your favorite BBQ sauce to the meat mixture. If you like your Sloppy Joe with a bit of heat, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You could also throw in some frozen vegetables, like peas or corn, for added nutrition and color. For a gluten-free version, ensure your ketchup and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free verified.