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Sloppy Joe Casserole

A hearty, comforting casserole featuring tender pasta combined with savory ground beef and sweet corn, all enveloped in a rich, cheesy Manwich and tomato sauce, then finished with a golden cheddar topping.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup corn frozen or well-drained from a can
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 lb. 85% lean ground beef
  • 8 oz. Velveeta cheese cut into cubes
  • ½ cup diced onions
  • 1 15.5 oz. can Manwich sauce
  • ¾ pound uncooked farfalle pasta
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth
  • 1 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes including liquid

Instructions
 

  • Set the oven to preheat at 375°F.
  • In a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart for 2 minutes. Introduce the onions and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions have softened. Drain the excess fat.
  • Incorporate the Manwich sauce, chicken broth, and undrained diced tomatoes into the skillet.
  • Bring the mixture to a mild boil and stir in the pasta, ensuring an even distribution.
  • Cover the pot and maintain a gentle boil until the pasta reaches an al dente texture, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Extend cooking time slightly beyond the box instructions due to the gentle boil. Sample a piece to verify readiness.
  • Lower the heat and add the corn, stirring to combine. Introduce the cubed Velveeta, cover the pot to aid melting, then uncover and stir until thoroughly blended.
  • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish.
  • Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar over the top.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Once finished, remove from the oven and serve, ideally accompanied by cornbread.

Notes

Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the dish fully and sprinkle with cheese. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to bake, allow to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake covered at 350°F for 25 minutes.
Different types of pasta can be substituted—adjust the cooking time based on package directions. Penne works particularly well.
Using a full pound of pasta is possible, though this may reduce the sauce-to-pasta ratio.