Are you tired of throwing away leftover Sloppy Joe? Think again! This classic comfort food can be transformed into a variety of delicious and creative dishes that your family will love. With just a few simple tweaks, you can turn last night’s dinner into tomorrow’s lunch or tonight’s dinner. In this article, we’ll show you 18 savory recipes to repurpose leftover Sloppy Joe, from breakfast to dinner and even dessert (yes, really!). From stuffed bell peppers to nacho bake, shepherd’s pie to tater tot casserole, we’ve got you covered.
Sloppy Joe Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transform ordinary bell peppers into a flavorful and filling meal by stuffing them with a savory Sloppy Joe mixture. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Sloppy Joe sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in Sloppy Joe sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the Sloppy Joe mixture, filling to the top.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and top with shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Leftover Sloppy Joe Quesadillas
Transform last night’s leftover Sloppy Joe into a delicious and easy-to-make quesadilla. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is a great way to breathe new life into yesterday’s meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 cups leftover Sloppy Joe
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, salsa, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
3. Spoon 1/2 to 3/4 cup of leftover Sloppy Joe onto the cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Cut into wedges and serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sloppy Joe Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of Sloppy Joes with the ease and warmth of a traditional shepherd’s pie. The result is a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Sloppy Joe sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup mashed potatoes
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Stir in Sloppy Joe sauce and frozen vegetables; cook until heated through.
4. In a separate pot, boil diced potatoes until tender. Mash with butter and season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer the Sloppy Joe mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sloppy Joe Nacho Bake
A twist on classic nachos, this recipe combines the flavors of Sloppy Joes with melted cheese and crispy tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Sloppy Joe sauce
– 1 bag tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in Sloppy Joe sauce; bring to a simmer.
5. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture over the tortilla chips, followed by shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro (if using) before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sloppy Joe Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Elevate your baked potato game with this creative twist on a classic comfort food. Sweet potatoes are filled with juicy Sloppy Joe filling and topped with melted cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Bake potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While potatoes are baking, cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Split baked potatoes lengthwise and top each with Sloppy Joe filling.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top (if using).
8. Return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Sloppy Joe Mac and Cheese Casserole
This casserole combines the classic comfort foods of sloppy joe and macaroni and cheese, topped with a crispy breadcrumb mixture. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 cup macaroni and cheese mix
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a large skillet until browned.
3. Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. In a separate pot, cook macaroni according to package instructions.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, milk, and macaroni and cheese mix. Stir until smooth.
6. Add the sloppy joe mixture to the macaroni mixture and stir until combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. Top with breadcrumbs and dot with butter.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sloppy Joe Pizza with Mozzarella
Sloppy Joe Pizza with Mozzarella Recipe
A twist on classic Sloppy Joes, this recipe brings the comforting flavors of ground beef and tomato sauce to a pizza crust topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Sloppy Joe sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in Sloppy Joe sauce, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Roll out pizza crust to desired thickness.
6. Spread beef mixture evenly over crust, leaving a small border around edges.
7. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the classic flavors of sloppy joe and cornbread into one satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering. With its gooey cheese, sweet corn, and savory ground beef, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sloppy joe sauce
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add sloppy joe sauce and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cornbread mix with milk according to package instructions.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread half of the cornbread mixture on the bottom.
6. Top with sloppy joe mixture, followed by remaining cornbread mixture and shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sloppy Joe Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A twist on traditional Sloppy Joes, this recipe fills hollowed-out zucchinis with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, tomato sauce, and spices. The result is a unique and delicious main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Sloppy Joe sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the Sloppy Joe sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture and top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leftover Sloppy Joe Empanadas
Transform last night’s Sloppy Joes into a new and exciting breakfast or snack with these easy-to-make empanadas.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover Sloppy Joe mixture (cooled)
– 1 package empanada wrappers (about 12-15 wrappers)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon water
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cooled Sloppy Joe mixture and a pinch of salt.
3. Lay an empanada wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the Sloppy Joe mixture onto one half of the wrapper, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the filling.
4. Brush the edges of the wrapper with the beaten egg mixed with water.
5. Fold the other half of the wrapper over the filling and press the edges together to seal the empanada.
6. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each empanada.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole
A comforting twist on classic sloppy joe, this casserole combines tender ground beef with sweet and tangy Sloppy Joe sauce, crispy tater tots, and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Sloppy Joe sauce
– 1 bag (32 oz) Tater Tots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Brown ground beef and onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as needed.
3. Stir in garlic, then Sloppy Joe sauce. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
4. Spread half the Tater Tots in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the meat mixture, then sprinkle with cheese.
5. Top with remaining Tater Tots and sprinkle with parsley.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sloppy Joe Cheesy Rice Bake
A comforting casserole that combines the flavors of sloppy joes, cheesy rice, and melted mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10.5 oz) sloppy joe sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups water.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in sloppy joe sauce; bring to a simmer.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, sloppy joe mixture, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and butter. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sloppy Joe Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your snack game with this unique twist on the classic Sloppy Joe recipe. By stuffing it into mushroom caps, you’ll get a flavorful and satisfying treat that’s perfect for parties or movie nights.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup Sloppy Joe sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the Sloppy Joe sauce and bring to a simmer.
5. Stuff each mushroom cap with the meat mixture, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this sweet and savory twist that combines the comfort of Sloppy Joe filling with melted cheese between two slices of bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread
– 1/4 cup Sloppy Joe filling (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons butter, divided
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with Sloppy Joe filling, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Add a slice of cheese on top of the filling.
6. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Sloppy Joe Spaghetti Bake
A twist on traditional spaghetti bakes, this recipe combines the classic flavors of Sloppy Joes with pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Sloppy Joe sauce
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in Sloppy Joe sauce; bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, Sloppy Joe mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish; top with grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leftover Sloppy Joe Breakfast Hash
Transform last night’s leftover Sloppy Joe into a delicious breakfast dish with this easy recipe. This hearty hash is perfect for a quick and satisfying morning meal or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover Sloppy Joe
– 2 cups diced cooked potatoes (about 2-3 medium-sized potatoes)
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced onions
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine leftover Sloppy Joe, potatoes, bell peppers, and onions.
3. Beat in the eggs until well combined with the mixture.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray or drizzle with cooking oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the hash is golden brown.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sloppy Joe Stuffed French Bread
Transform a classic Sloppy Joe sandwich into a decadent stuffed bread, perfect for a crowd-pleasing snack or meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 loaf of French bread (1 lb)
• 1 can of Sloppy Joe sauce
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the Sloppy Joe sauce and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Slice the French bread loaf lengthwise, then hollow out the center to create a cavity.
6. Fill the bread with the Sloppy Joe mixture, followed by shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Place the stuffed bread on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sloppy Joe Meatball Subs
Elevate your sandwich game with these mouthwatering Sloppy Joe Meatball Subs, featuring tender meatballs smothered in a rich and tangy Sloppy Joe sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Sloppy Joe sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 Italian-style sub rolls
– Provolone cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, heat the Sloppy Joe sauce in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
7. Assemble the subs by placing 2-3 meatballs on each roll, followed by a spoonful of the sauce and top with provolone cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover Sloppy Joe recipes! Turn yesterday’s dinner into today’s masterpiece with these 18 innovative and savory ideas. From stuffed bell peppers to nacho bakes, and from mac and cheese casseroles to grilled cheese sandwiches, there’s a recipe for everyone. Perfect for family meals, potlucks, or just getting the most out of your groceries, these clever hacks will make you wonder how you ever lived without them.