Description: This Manwich Casserole is a quick, easy, and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Combining ground beef, the iconic Manwich sauce, tender pasta, and plenty of melted cheese, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that the whole family will love. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that comes together in a snap, utilizing simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Get ready to experience a nostalgic classic with a modern twist!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (15-ounce) can Manwich sloppy joe sauce
- 2 cups cooked pasta (such as elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses), divided
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped onion
- Optional: 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup much easier. You can use cooking spray or a light coating of butter.
Step 2: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. If you’re using onion and bell pepper, add them to the skillet along with the ground beef and cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Drain off any excess grease from the skillet. This step is crucial for preventing the casserole from becoming greasy. You can carefully tilt the skillet and use a spoon to remove the grease, or use a grease separator.
Step 4: Return the skillet to the heat. Stir in the Manwich sloppy joe sauce and garlic powder (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and season with salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 5: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheese until it’s melted and well combined. This will create a creamy and cheesy base for the casserole.
Step 6: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until it’s evenly coated with the beef and cheese mixture. Make sure the pasta is well distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 7: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese for a crispy topping.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. The casserole should be heated through and the cheese should be nicely melted.
Step 10: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set slightly and prevent it from being too runny.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Manwich Casserole is more than just a simple meal; it’s a trip down memory lane filled with comforting flavors and easy preparation. You’ll love this recipe because:
- It’s incredibly easy: With just a few simple steps and readily available ingredients, this casserole is perfect for even the busiest of cooks.
- It’s budget-friendly: Using ground beef, pasta, and Manwich sauce, this recipe won’t break the bank.
- It’s customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or spices to personalize the dish to your liking.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser: Both kids and adults will enjoy the familiar flavors of this classic casserole.
- It’s comforting: There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole on a chilly evening.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Manwich Casserole with a side salad for a complete meal. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a great choice.
- Add a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots for extra nutrients.
- Serve with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the casserole.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy and tangy finish.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use a higher fat content ground beef.
- If you don’t have Manwich sauce on hand, you can make your own by combining tomato sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
- To make the casserole ahead of time, assemble it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
- If you want a crispier topping, broil the casserole for the last minute or two of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 30-40g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg (depending on Manwich sauce)
Conclusion
The Manwich Casserole is a testament to the fact that delicious and satisfying meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. This recipe is a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy dinner that the whole family will enjoy. Its customizable nature allows you to adapt it to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile and reliable addition to your recipe repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a comforting and flavorful casserole that will become a new family favorite.
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, shells, or even macaroni and cheese pasta. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package directions before adding it to the casserole.
- I don’t have Manwich sauce. Can I make my own? Yes, you can easily make your own sloppy joe sauce! Combine 1 cup of tomato sauce, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of vinegar (apple cider or white vinegar work well), 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of mustard powder, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Can I add vegetables to the casserole? Definitely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of the casserole. Some great options include chopped onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or corn. Sauté the vegetables along with the ground beef until they are softened.
- Can I freeze the Manwich Casserole? Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator. Bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- How can I make this casserole healthier? There are several ways to make this casserole healthier. Use lean ground beef or ground turkey to reduce the fat content. Choose whole wheat pasta for added fiber. Load up on vegetables to increase the nutritional value. Use reduced-fat cheese or a smaller amount of cheese. And opt for a homemade sloppy joe sauce to control the sodium content. You can also add a can of drained and rinsed lentils to the meat mixture for extra protein and fiber.
