1. Cook the beef
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and green bell pepper.
Cook for 7–9 minutes, breaking up the beef as it cooks, until browned and the vegetables are softened. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Make the Sloppy Joe sauce
Add the brown sugar, ketchup, tomato paste, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and water.
Stir well and simmer for 8–10 minutes, until the mixture becomes thick and saucy.
3. Prepare the creamy topping
In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, and salt.
Mix until smooth, then stir in about half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella.
4. Assemble
Spread the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly over the top.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella over everything.
5. Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the casserole is hot, bubbling, and golden brown on top.
For a more deeply browned cheese topping, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.
6. Rest and serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Spoon onto plates and serve with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or toasted bread.
💡 Tip
For a heartier casserole, add cooked pasta such as rotini or elbow macaroni to the Sloppy Joe filling before assembling.
Saucy, cheesy, hearty, and incredibly comforting! 😋🥘
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