Easy Amish Sloppy Joe Penne Casserole
If you’re looking for the perfect easy sloppy joe casserole recipe, this hearty and cheesy Amish sloppy joe penne casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. Made with just 5 simple ingredients like ground beef, penne pasta, sloppy joe sauce, cheddar cheese, and beef broth, this delicious baked pasta dish comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
The best part? There’s no need to boil the pasta first! Everything bakes together in one casserole dish, creating a rich, tangy, cheesy dinner your whole family will ask for again and again.
This oven baked sloppy joe casserole with penne pasta is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, meal prep, or cozy Sunday suppers.
Why You’ll Love This Amish Sloppy Joe Casserole
1. Super Easy One Dish Dinner
This is a true dump and bake casserole recipe, meaning less prep, fewer dishes, and more time to relax. Just layer, pour, bake, and enjoy.
2. Budget Friendly Family Meal
Using pantry staples like canned sloppy joe sauce and pasta makes this a very affordable dinner option for feeding a crowd.
3. Kid Friendly Comfort Food
The sweet and tangy sloppy joe flavor combined with cheesy baked pasta makes this recipe a guaranteed family favorite.
4. Perfect for Leftovers
This casserole reheats beautifully, making it ideal for lunch meal prep or next-day dinners.
5. Great for Potlucks and Gatherings
This cheesy sloppy joe bake has that classic church supper and potluck feel everyone loves.
Ingredients
- 12 oz uncooked penne pasta (about 3 cups dry)
- 1 lb lean ground beef, browned and drained
- 2 (15 oz) cans sloppy joe sauce (such as Manwich)
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish using cooking spray or a little oil.
Step 2: Add the Pasta
Spread the uncooked penne pasta evenly across the bottom of the casserole dish. No boiling needed.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Drain any excess grease.
Step 4: Make the Sloppy Joe Mixture
Add the canned sloppy joe sauce and beef broth to the skillet with the cooked beef.
Stir until well combined into a loose, saucy mixture.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the sloppy joe mixture evenly over the uncooked pasta.
Make sure all pasta is mostly covered with liquid so it cooks properly while baking.
Gently press down any exposed pasta with a spoon.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Step 7: Bake Covered
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the pasta becomes tender.
Step 8: Final Cheese Layer
Remove the foil carefully.
Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and return to the oven uncovered.
Bake for another 8–10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden around the edges.
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so it thickens slightly.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Variations and Tips
Add More Veggies
Mix in frozen corn, diced green bell peppers, or onions for extra flavor and texture.
Make It Lighter
Swap half the beef for ground turkey or use all ground turkey for a lighter version.
Try Different Cheese
Use mozzarella for extra stretch or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Make It Extra Crunchy
Top with crushed butter crackers before the final bake for a delicious golden crust.
For a Saucy Casserole
Add an extra 1/2 cup of broth if you prefer more sauce.
