Get ready to revolutionize your dinner routine with a mind-blowing recipe that combines the classic sloppy joe's saucy goodness with creamy rice and melted cheese! This isn't just another casserole – it's a flavor explosion that will have your family fighting for seconds and begging you to make it again. Imagine the tangy sloppy joe sauce mingling with tender ground beef, nestled on a bed of creamy rice, and topped with a golden, bubbling cheese blanket that'll make your taste buds do a happy dance!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup sloppy joe sauce
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and has developed a nice golden color, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the ground beef using a colander to remove unnecessary grease.
- Return the beef to the skillet and pour in the sloppy joe sauce. Stir to combine thoroughly, ensuring the meat is evenly coated. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sour cream, and chopped bell peppers. Mix well to create a creamy rice base.
- Spread the rice mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform layer.
- Top the rice layer with the saucy ground beef, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, covering the entire dish for a melty, golden finish.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and slightly bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set and cool slightly.
- Slice into portions and serve hot, garnishing with additional chopped bell peppers or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use freshly cooked rice that's still warm when mixing with sour cream – this helps create a super creamy base.
- Don't skip draining the ground beef! Removing excess fat ensures your dish isn't greasy and maintains a perfect texture.
- Choose a good quality shredded cheese that melts well, like cheddar or a Mexican blend, for the best golden, bubbly top.
- If you want to add extra nutrition, consider mixing in some frozen corn or diced zucchini with the rice mixture.
- Let the dish rest for those crucial 5 minutes after baking – this helps the layers set and makes serving much easier.
- For a spicier version, use a hot sloppy joe sauce or add some red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
