Hearty Sloppy Joe Mac & Cheese

Name: Hearty Sloppy Joe Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound elbow macaroni; 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, finely chopped; 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce; 1/2 cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Isabella

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Discover a delightful fusion of flavors with our Hearty Sloppy Joe Mac ‘n Cheese recipe. This dish combines the rich, cheesy goodness of traditional macaroni and cheese with the savory, tangy flavors of Sloppy Joe. Perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

Ingredients:

1 pound elbow macaroni

1 pound ground beef

1/2 cup ketchup

1 onion, finely chopped

1 green bell pepper, finely chopped

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Cook the Macaroni:

Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sloppy Joe Mixture:

In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combine Mac ‘n Cheese:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.

Assemble and Bake:

Spread half of the macaroni mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Pour half of the Sloppy Joe mixture over the macaroni layer.

Repeat with remaining macaroni and Sloppy Joe mixtures.

Sprinkle remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Bake:

Cover baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve:

Let cool slightly before serving.

Serving Tips:

Garnish Options: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions over each serving for a pop of color and added freshness.

Side Dishes: Serve alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish.

Bread Pairings: Warm garlic bread or dinner rolls make excellent accompaniments to soak up the delicious sauce.

Individual Servings: For parties or gatherings, consider portioning the mac ‘n cheese into individual ramekins before baking for easy serving.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store leftover mac ‘n cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: This dish freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can be frozen for up to 1-2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil to prevent drying out.

Freshness Tip: Before reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to maintain the creamy texture.

Related Recipes:

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

FAQs:

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells. Just adjust cooking times according to the package instructions for al dente texture.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced tofu. Ensure to season well and cook until heated through before proceeding with the recipe.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the mac ‘n cheese and sloppy joe mixture in the baking dish ahead of time. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply remove from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, then bake according to the recipe instructions.

What can I serve with Hearty Sloppy Joe Mac ‘n Cheese?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also makes a hearty main course on its own.

Conclusion:

Our Hearty Sloppy Joe Mac ‘n Cheese recipe offers a perfect blend of creamy textures and robust flavors. It’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Each bite combines the comforting familiarity of mac ‘n cheese with the zesty kick of Sloppy Joe, creating a dish that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.