Sloppy Joe Casserole (Air Fryer Recipe)
Savory, cheesy, and comforting — this Sloppy Joe Casserole in the air fryer is the perfect mash-up of your favorite sandwich and a baked pasta dish. It’s quick, hearty, and ideal for weeknight dinners!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
½ cup onion, finely chopped
½ cup green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup Sloppy Joe sauce (or use ¾ cup ketchup + 2 tbsp brown sugar + 1 tbsp mustard + 1 tsp Worcestershire)
1½ cups cooked pasta (elbow or rotini), optional for a pasta version
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup mozzarella cheese
Salt & pepper, to taste
Cooking spray
Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cook the Beef Mixture (7–8 minutes)
In a skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic until browned (about 5–6 minutes).
Drain excess grease.
Stir in Sloppy Joe sauce and simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
Season with salt and pepper as needed.
Optional: Stir in cooked pasta for a casserole-pasta hybrid.
Assemble the Casserole (3–4 minutes)
Spray an air fryer-safe baking dish (6–7 inch round or square) with oil.
Add the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly into the dish.
Sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning during the first part of cooking.
Air Fry the Casserole (20–25 minutes)
Preheat air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for 3 minutes.
Place the covered dish into the air fryer basket.
Air fry at 320°F for 15 minutes (covered).
Remove foil and air fry uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 more minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Check after 5 minutes to avoid over-browning.
Rest & Serve (5 minutes)
Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Optional Additions
Spicy: Add jalapeños or chili flakes.
Vegetable Boost: Stir in corn, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Top with biscuits or tater tots before baking for a fun twist!
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a green salad or roasted veggies
Pair with cornbread or garlic toast
Top with sour cream or hot sauce
Nutrition (Per Serving, approx. 6 servings)
Calories: 420
Protein: 25g
Carbs: 22g
Fat: 27g
Sodium: 890mg