Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole

Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
1 pound ground beef 🥩
1 small onion, finely chopped 🧅
1/2 green bell pepper, diced 🌶️
2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce 🍅
1/4 cup ketchup 🍅
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 🥫
1 tablespoon brown sugar 🍂
1 teaspoon chili powder 🌶️
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika 🌟
Salt and black pepper to taste 🧂
For the Cornbread Topping:
1 (8.5-ounce) box Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix 🌽
1/3 cup milk 🥛
1 large egg 🥚
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
Optional Garnishes:
Sliced green onions 🌿
Sour cream 🥛
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized oven-safe dish.
Step 2: Cook the Sloppy Joe Filling
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess grease.
Add the onion, green bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Cornbread Batter
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, milk, and egg. Stir until just combined. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the sloppy joe mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Carefully pour the cornbread batter over the top and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Serve
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a side salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal.
Serve with pickles or coleslaw for a tangy contrast.
Tips for Success
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the sloppy joe filling or cornbread batter.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Double the recipe for a larger crowd and bake in a 9×13-inch dish.
Nutrition Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: ~400 kcal per serving
Servings: 6