Sloppy Joe Casserole

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)

DIRECTIONS:

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.