If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor, endlessly satisfying, and sure to make your family swoon, get ready for the ultimate comfort food: the Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Casserole. Imagine everything you love about classic Sloppy Joes — that sweet-and-savory saucy ground beef with veggies — but baked into a bubbly, cheesy casserole with fluffy biscuit pieces nestled right in. It’s a recipe that comes together quickly, makes a generous panful, and has everyone racing to the table for seconds. The Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Casserole is about to become your new go-to favorite when you want something cozy, craveable, and super fun!

Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Casserole shine is its clever mix of classic pantry items and a few fresh touches. Every ingredient pulls its weight, whether it’s building those iconic flavors or bringing the perfect texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Ground beef: Provides savory richness and the heartiness you crave in a casserole.
Chopped onion: This aromatic staple builds flavor from the very start and adds a subtle sweetness.
Chopped green bell pepper: Brings a pop of color and a gentle, fresh bite that wakes up the dish.
Sloppy joe sauce (canned): Delivers that classic tangy-sweet taste that defines the recipe — choose your favorite brand for best results.
Refrigerated biscuit dough: The secret to those golden “bubbles,” these bake up fluffy and tender throughout the casserole.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the top for creamy, gooey goodness with every forkful.
Olive oil: Helps soften the veggies and adds a hint of richness to the beef.
Garlic powder: A pinch ramps up the savory factor and blends seamlessly into the sauce.
Salt and pepper: Seasoning is always key! Adjust to taste for the perfect balanced bite.

How to Make Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Preheat

Set yourself up for casserole success by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Casserole bakes evenly and releases easily when it’s time to serve.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, and sauté them together for 4 to 5 minutes until they’ve softened and smell fantastic — this creates a flavorful foundation for your casserole.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown completely so you get those tasty caramelized bits. Once cooked, carefully drain off any excess grease for a lighter, cleaner bite.

Step 4: Stir in the Sauce and Seasonings

Stir in the sloppy joe sauce and sprinkle in the garlic powder. Season everything with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld. If you love extra zing, now’s the perfect time to sneak in a dash of Worcestershire or hot sauce.

Step 5: Add the Biscuit Dough

Remove the skillet from heat. Gently fold in the quartered biscuit dough pieces until every bit is coated in the savory sauce. Try to avoid over-mixing so those biscuit chunks stay intact and bake up beautifully.

Step 6: Transfer and Top with Cheese

Pour the biscuit-coated mixture into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese across the top. The cheese will melt into a golden bubbly layer that’s irresistible!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into your oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the biscuits are puffed and golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before digging in — it helps everything set for neat slices.

How to Serve Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Casserole

Garnishes

This is the moment to turn your Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Casserole into a masterpiece. Sprinkle it with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a burst of brightness. A dollop of sour cream or a few jalapeño rings on top can add just the right creamy or spicy kick!

Side Dishes

The casserole is hearty, so keep side dishes simple. A crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted veggies are perfect for a refreshing contrast. If you’re feeling extra cozy, try some classic potato wedges or coleslaw for a true diner-style spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to have fun with your Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Casserole! Serve it in individual ramekins for a personal touch at parties, or scoop it into bowls and top each serving with extra cheese and chips for a playful, shareable appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it’s just as delicious on day two!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap the dish tightly (or transfer to freezer-safe containers) and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven, loosely covered with foil to retain moisture, until heated through. Individual portions can also be microwaved if you’re in a hurry. Either way, the biscuits stay surprisingly fluffy!

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a lighter version of the Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Casserole, and it still tastes amazing with the same blend of sauce and seasonings.

Do I have to use canned biscuit dough?

While canned biscuit dough is speedy and gives that signature “bubble up” texture, you can swap in homemade biscuit dough or even rustic bread cubes if you’d like a twist.

Is the casserole spicy?

As written, it’s mild and family-friendly. If you love a bit of heat, try stirring in hot sauce or adding sliced jalapeños to the topping for a kick.

How do I know when the biscuits are cooked through?

The biscuits should be golden brown and firm to the touch on top. You can also insert a toothpick into a center biscuit; if it comes out clean, they’re cooked through.

Can I add more veggies?

Definitely! Mushrooms, diced carrots, or even corn are great additions to the meat mixture and give extra color, flavor, and nutrition to your Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Casserole.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dinner that’s as easy as it is comforting, the Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Casserole is calling your name! With its bubbly biscuits, gooey cheese, and retro flavors, it’s impossible not to fall in love. Grab your skillet and baking dish, and give this recipe a whirl — your family and friends will thank you!