Ingredients:
For the Sloppy Joe mixture:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the casserole:
- 1 package (8.5 ounces) corn muffin mix
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the casserole.
- Prepare the Sloppy Joe Mixture:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they are soft.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in the ketchup, water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly.
- Prepare the Corn Muffin Topping:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the corn muffin mix, egg, and milk until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spoon the corn muffin mixture over the Sloppy Joe mixture, spreading it out to cover the entire surface.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the corn muffin layer.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the corn muffin topping is golden brown and cooked through.
- You can check if the topping is done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
- Serving:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Cut it into squares and serve hot.
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.