Description

A hearty casserole that reimagines sloppy joe filling with layers of melted cheese, tender beef, and tangy tomato sauce. Baked in one pan for easy cleanup, it’s a family-friendly, one-hour weeknight dinner that’s golden, bubbly, and comfort food at its best.

Ingredients

Ground beef, 2 pounds (80/20 blend works best for moisture and browning)
Onion, 1 large, diced (yellow onion provides sweetness; red onion adds bite)
Tomato sauce, 2 cans (15 oz each) (use unsweetened for balance; ketchup alternative below)
Brown sugar, 3 tablespoons (balances acidity; use less if sauce is already sweet)
Apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons (adds tanginess; substitute with white vinegar if needed)
Garlic powder, 1 teaspoon (essential for sloppy joe depth)
Mustard powder, 1 teaspoon (adds savory flavor; substitute with turmeric for color)
Salt, 1 teaspoon
Black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon
Hamburger buns, 8 (for serving)
Shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese blend, 2 cups (for melting over the beef mixture and buns)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and place hamburger buns in a 13×9-inch baking dish in a single layer.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no pink remains; drain excess fat.
Add diced onion, garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté until onion is tender, about 5 minutes.
Stir in tomato sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Carefully spread the beef mixture over the buns in the baking dish.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese blend evenly over the top of the beef mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden, and the buns are toasted.
Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. Cut into 6-8 portions.

Notes

Use unsweetened tomato sauce for balance.
Substitute cheddar or mozzarella with your favorite cheese for different flavors.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Toaster oven option: Adjust baking time as needed.

Prep Time: 15
Cook Time: 35
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 400
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 750mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 90mg