Some casseroles demand lots of prep—chopping, sautéing, and multiple pans to wash afterward. And then there are recipes like this one: simple, practical, and made entirely in one dish. This 5-Ingredient Amish Sloppy Joe Penne Casserole takes the familiar sweet-and-savory flavor of sloppy joes and turns it into a warm, baked pasta dinner the whole family will enjoy.
With uncooked penne, seasoned ground beef, sloppy joe sauce, broth, and cheddar cheese, you can create a rich, saucy casserole with very little effort. The pasta cooks right in the oven, soaking up all that bold flavor as it softens. Meanwhile, the cheese melts into a golden layer on top, adding the perfect finishing touch.
It’s an ideal choice for busy evenings—affordable, filling, and easy to put together. Add a simple salad or some bread on the side, and dinner is ready.
Why This Recipe Is a Favorite
- Uses just five basic ingredients
- No need to boil the pasta beforehand
- Classic sweet, tangy, and savory flavor
- Gooey, melted cheese topping
- One-pan meal with easy cleanup
- Budget-friendly and filling
- Great for family dinners or weeknights
Ingredients
- 12 oz uncooked penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef (cooked and drained)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) sloppy joe sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Ingredient Tips
- Pasta: Penne works best because it holds sauce well, but similar short pasta shapes like ziti or rigatoni can be used.
- Ground beef: An 80/20 blend gives good flavor; drain excess fat after browning. Ground turkey is a lighter option.
- Sauce: Any store-bought sloppy joe sauce works, or you can make your own if preferred.
- Broth: Low-sodium broth helps balance the saltiness of the sauce.
- Cheese: Freshly grated cheddar melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.
How to Make It
- Prepare the dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the uncooked penne evenly across the bottom. - Cook the beef and mix the sauce
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, then drain. Stir in the sloppy joe sauce and beef broth until combined. - Assemble
Pour the meat sauce over the dry pasta, making sure most of the noodles are covered. Gently press down any pieces sticking up. Sprinkle 1 cup of cheese over the top. - Bake covered
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes. This traps steam, allowing the pasta to cook evenly. - Add the topping
Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese, and return to the oven uncovered for 8–10 minutes until melted and bubbly. - Let it rest
Allow the casserole to sit for about 5–10 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens.
Easy Variations
- Add heat: Mix in red pepper flakes or use a spicier sauce
- Include vegetables: Stir in onions, bell peppers, or garlic while cooking the beef
- Switch proteins: Use ground turkey or chicken
- Extra cheesy: Add mozzarella or provolone for more melt
- Homemade sauce: Combine ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, and Worcestershire for a DIY version
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and sauce
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days in an airtight container
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or oven; add a splash of broth if needed
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating
Helpful Tips
- Make sure the pasta is evenly spread so it cooks properly
- Keep the dish tightly covered during the first bake to trap moisture
- Letting it rest after baking helps the sauce thicken and cling to the pasta
Serving Ideas
- Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
- Crusty bread or soft dinner rolls
Final Thoughts
This sloppy joe penne casserole shows how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly satisfying. With minimal prep and just one dish, you get a hearty, cheesy meal packed with bold flavor. It’s perfect for busy nights, casual family dinners, or anytime you want comfort food without the extra work.
