Sloppy Joe Meatball Bake

Every forkful of Sloppy Joe Meatball Bake is a delightful medley of flavors and textures—the tangy sauce soaking into the tender meatballs, contrasted by the slight crunch of baked bread or topping.

This is one of my go-to comfort meals, always receiving cheers of delight around the dinner table. It's not only packed with the flavorful punch that keeps folks coming back for more, but it’s also effortlessly easy to whip up, making it a lifesaver for busy evenings.

Jump to:

• Sloppy Joe Meatball Bake
• 📖Printable Recipe:
• Sloppy Joe Meatball Bake
• 📋Ingredients
• 🔪How Do I Make It?
• 🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
• ⏲️Chef's Tip
• 💭Frequently Asked Questions
• 🥘More Easy Casseroles

Sloppy Joe Meatball Bake

🎥Video Recipe:

📖Printable Recipe:

📋Ingredients

• 750 g (1 ½ pounds) ground beef+pork
• 1 egg
• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup cream
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (400 g/14 oz) tomato sauce
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoon brown sugar
• ⅓ cup ketchup
• 1 cup low-moisture mozzarella
• 3 tablespoon parsley, chopped
• ½ cup chicken stock

🔪How Do I Make It?

Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.

In a large bowl season beef with salt and pepper. Add an egg, panko breadcrumbs, parsley and cream. Mix well. Roll beef mixture into balls around 50 g each. 

Brown meatballs in a cast-iron skillet, in a few tablespoons of olive oil. Transfer onto a large plate.

Add onions and peppers into a pan. Saute for 10 minutes. Mix in garlic, season with salt and pepper, then pour in tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar and chicken stock. 

Bring the sauce to a boil, add in browned meatballs and top with mozzarella. 

Bake for 20-25 minutes. 

🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?

Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your Sloppy Joe Meatball Bake from good to unforgettable. Here are some top recommendations to complement your casserole:

Green Salad

A fresh green salad brings a crisp contrast to the rich and savory meatball bake. Consider a mix of baby spinach, arugula, and romaine, topped with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the vinaigrette pairs well with the sweetness of the tomato sauce, giving the meal a well-rounded flavor profile.

Garlic Bread

Nothing complements a hearty casserole better than a side of warm, buttery garlic bread. The crunchy exterior and soft, garlicky interior make it the perfect tool for scooping up extra sauce. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, adding minimal extra time to your cooking process.

Steamed Vegetables

If you’re looking for a healthy and easy side dish, go for steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. These veggies not only add color to your plate but also provide a nutritious balance to the meal. A bit of butter or a sprinkle of sea salt can go a long way in enhancing their natural flavors.

⏲️Chef's Tip

You don’t have to be a professional chef to make a mouth-watering Sloppy Joe Meatball Bake, but a few insider tips can make you feel like one:

Pre-Season Your Meat

Seasoning your ground beef and pork mixture with salt and pepper before you add in other ingredients ensures that each meatball is bursting with flavor. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty—mixing by hand helps distribute the seasoning evenly.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Freshly chopped onions, bell peppers, and parsley can significantly elevate your dish. While pre-chopped or frozen options are convenient, they often lack the vibrant flavors that fresh ingredients offer. Take a few extra minutes to chop them yourself—you won’t regret it.

Brown the Meatballs

Browning your meatballs in a cast-iron skillet before baking adds a delicious crust, locking in the juices and ensuring a moist and tender bite. This step also builds complex flavors that meld beautifully with the tomato-based sauce.

💭Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, simply combine them in your skillet, top with mozzarella, and bake according to the instructions.

Can I Freeze Sloppy Joe Meatball Bake?

Yes, this dish freezes wonderfully. After baking, allow it to cool completely. Transfer the casserole to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Are There Vegetarian Alternatives?

For a vegetarian twist, you can use plant-based meat substitutes or a combination of lentils and mushrooms as the base for your meatballs. Follow the same seasoning and preparation steps for a delicious, vegetarian-friendly version.

How Can I Store Leftovers?

To store leftovers, place the cooled Sloppy Joe Meatball Bake in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to four days. When reheating, you can use the oven or a microwave. If using the oven, cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out and heat it until it's warmed through.

What Variations Can I Try?

There are plenty of ways to switch up the classic recipe! Try adding some spice by including chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes. For a cheesy twist, mix different types of cheese, like cheddar or provolone, with the mozzarella. You can also add extra veggies such as mushrooms, zucchini, or corn to the meatball mix for added texture and flavor.

Is This Dish Keto-Friendly?

While the traditional recipe might not fit a strict keto diet, you can easily adapt it by using keto-friendly ingredients. Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or pork rinds for the meatballs. Make a low-carb sauce using sugar-free tomato paste, and serve the bake with a side of low-carb vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed spinach.

🥘More Easy Casseroles

If you're already craving more cozy meals after indulging in the Sloppy Joe Meatball Bake, you're in for a treat. Comfort food isn't just about satisfying hunger; it's also about soothing the soul and sparking cherished memories around the dining table. Whether it's the creamy richness of a classic tuna casserole or the delightful layers of a chicken cordon bleu, there's a comforting dish for every occasion.

• Hamburger Potato Casserole
• Crispy Tuna Casserole
• Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole
• Creamy Chicken and Ham Casserole
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
• Chicken Poppy Seed Casserole