Looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make comfort dish the whole family will love? Enter the Sloppy Joe Skillet Cornbread Casserole—a hearty, one-pan meal featuring the classic flavors of Sloppy Joes combined with a golden, tender layer of cornbread. It’s the perfect recipe for busy families or anyone craving a comforting skillet dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Whether you’re a fan of skillet cooking or just need a dish that’s as satisfying as it is straightforward, this casserole is your answer. Below, we’ll show you how to make this crowd-pleaser step by step, along with some pro tips for customizing it to your taste.
Ingredients for Your Sloppy Joe Skillet Cornbread Casserole
This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create bold, delicious flavors. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
For the Sloppy Joe filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional, for a little kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the cornbread topping:
- 1 package cornbread mix (8.5 oz)
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup milk
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
How to Make Sloppy Joe Skillet Cornbread Casserole
Follow these simple steps to bring this comforting, crowd-pleasing dish to life.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using cast iron? Even better! It will go straight from stovetop to oven, saving time and dishes.
Step 2: Cook the Sloppy Joe Filling
- Brown the Meat
Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess grease.
- Sauté Vegetables
Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until fragrant and the vegetables begin to soften.
- Season and Simmer
Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, paprika, and chili powder. Mix thoroughly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 3: Prepare the Cornbread Topping
While your filling simmers, prepare the cornbread batter according to the package instructions. Stir the shredded cheddar cheese into the batter for an extra cheesy cornbread topping.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the cornbread batter evenly over the Sloppy Joe filling in the skillet. Smooth it out with the back of a spoon or a spatula, ensuring it covers the filling completely.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or shredded cheese if desired. Serve straight out of the skillet for a rustic, family-style meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Sloppy Joe Skillet Cornbread Casserole
- Make It Your Own
Don’t love green peppers? Swap for red peppers or throw in some diced jalapeños for added spice.
- Add Veggies
Looking to sneak in extra nutrients? Stir in frozen corn, diced zucchini, or even cooked lentils with the filling.
- Gluten-Free Twist
Use a gluten-free cornbread mix if you’re catering to dietary restrictions.
- Leftovers That Last
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave to enjoy again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Wonder
Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
- Family-Friendly
It’s a hit for the kids and adults alike—who can resist Sloppy Joes and cornbread?
- Versatile
This recipe is easy to adapt with your favorite veggies, spices, or even protein alternatives.
- Perfect for Busy Nights
With minimal prep and just 30 minutes of baking time, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner.
Wrapping It Up
There’s something magical about taking two comfort food classics—Sloppy Joes and cornbread—and merging them into one delicious dish. This Sloppy Joe Skillet Cornbread Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, loaded with rich flavors and ready in no time.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or hosting game night with friends, this dish is as satisfying as it is simple. Give it a try, and don’t forget to make it your own with creative updates and garnishes.
Love skillet dinners? Be sure to bookmark this recipe and share it with your fellow comfort food lovers. Happy cooking!
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