If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that combines the saucy goodness of traditional sloppy joes with an irresistible, pull-apart texture, you have to try this Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Recipe. It’s a fun twist on the classic sandwich, baked into a bubbly, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Every bite delivers a cozy, saucy punch alongside buttery biscuit pieces, making it a guaranteed family favorite that’s as delicious as it is easy to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—from the savory ground beef that anchors the dish, to the blend of spices that bring warmth and depth, and of course the refrigerated biscuits that bake into golden, fluffy bites. Together, these ingredients create a perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color that’s both satisfying and inviting.
- 2 lbs lean ground beef: Provides hearty, protein-packed base with just the right amount of fat for flavor without greasiness.
- 1½ cups ketchup: Adds a tangy sweetness that forms the signature sloppy joe sauce.
- 6 Tbsp water: Helps loosen the sauce for a perfect consistency that’s not too thick or runny.
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar: Brings a subtle molasses depth to balance acidity and spice.
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Introduces savory umami notes that boost overall richness.
- 1 Tbsp yellow mustard: Offers a gentle tang and brightness to cut through the richness.
- 1½ tsp chili powder: Adds a mild kick and smoky warmth to elevate the flavor.
- ¾ tsp garlic powder: Delivers aromatic, comforting undertones.
- ¾ tsp onion powder: Enhances savory depth with a subtle sweetness.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to bring everything together perfectly.
- 2 (6-oz) cans refrigerated biscuits: The secret to the bubble-up effect with tender, buttery pockets throughout.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides melty, sharp creaminess that finishes the dish beautifully.
How to Make Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. This ensures that your Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Recipe will bake evenly and develop that irresistible golden crust. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the lean ground beef until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy dish. This step sets the foundation for your sauce, giving the dish hearty texture and satisfying flavor.
Step 3: Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce
To the browned beef, stir in ketchup, water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes to allow all the flavors to marry and thicken just slightly. This sauce is the heart of your Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Recipe, bursting with tangy, savory goodness.
Step 4: Combine Biscuits with Meat Mixture
Cut each refrigerated biscuit into quarters and place them in a medium bowl. Pour the warm meat mixture over the biscuits and toss gently to coat everything evenly. This step ensures each biscuit piece absorbs the sauce, creating those coveted gooey bubbles when baked.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Spread the coated biscuit and meat mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Pop it into the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, allowing the biscuits to cook through and puff up beautifully.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheese melts and turns delightfully bubbly and golden. This finishing touch adds gooey, cheesy richness that perfectly complements the saucy filling.
How to Serve Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Recipe
Garnishes
While this dish is fantastic on its own, adding fresh garnishes can elevate your Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Recipe even more. Consider a sprinkling of chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a few pickled jalapeño slices can add some creamy tang or heat, if you like a little kick.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides that balance its richness. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide refreshing contrast, while roasted vegetables or steamed green beans add a wholesome touch. For a fun, casual meal, serve alongside kettle-cooked chips or crunchy pickle spears.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, transfer the Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Recipe to individual ramekins or muffin tins before baking to create personal-sized skillet servings. This makes sharing effortless and adds a charming presentation. Alternatively, top with sliced avocado or a fried egg for a creative brunch twist that will surprise and delight your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to three days, making it easy to reheat for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, too! Just cool it completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, warm individual portions in the microwave or gently heat in a 350ºF oven until warmed through and bubbly again. Adding a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top before warming enhances the experience, bringing back that fresh-baked feeling.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for this Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional and provides that classic flavor, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes can be used to make it lighter or accommodate dietary preferences.
Why do you use refrigerated biscuits instead of homemade dough?
Refrigerated biscuits save time and add a tender, buttery texture that’s perfect for the bubble-up effect. Homemade dough can work, but biscuits are reliable and convenient, especially for weeknight meals.
How spicy is the dish, and can I adjust it?
The recipe has a mild warmth from chili powder, but you can easily add more chili powder or some cayenne pepper if you like it spicier, or omit it altogether for a milder flavor that’s perfect for kids.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, swap the ground beef for a plant-based crumble or cooked lentils. Use vegetarian Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to maintain the umami depth, and you’ll still have a delicious, satisfying Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Recipe.
Is there a way to make the dish gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free biscuits or a similar grain-free biscuit alternative. Just be sure to check other ingredients like Worcestershire sauce and chili powder for gluten content to keep it safe.
Final Thoughts
This Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to meals because it hits all the right notes—comforting, saucy, cheesy, and effortless. It’s the kind of dish that invites smiles around the table and seconds without hesitation. Give it a try and watch how it becomes your favorite new tradition for busy nights and casual feasts alike!
Print
Sloppy Joe Bubble Up Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Sloppy Joe Bubble Up is a fun and easy casserole recipe that combines the classic flavors of Sloppy Joe sandwiches with fluffy biscuit pieces. Ground beef is simmered in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce, then mixed with refrigerated biscuit dough and baked until golden and bubbly. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, this dish makes a hearty and family-friendly meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1½ cups ketchup
- 6 Tbsp water
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 Tbsp yellow mustard
- 1½ tsp chili powder
- ¾ tsp garlic powder
- ¾ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Biscuit and Topping
- 2 (6-oz) cans refrigerated biscuits
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat to reduce greasiness.
- Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce: Add ketchup, water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the cooked beef. Stir to combine well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Biscuits: Cut the refrigerated biscuits into quarters and place them in a medium mixing bowl. Toss the biscuit pieces with the warm meat sauce until all biscuit pieces are evenly coated.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Spread the biscuit and beef mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure it’s distributed uniformly.
- Bake Initial Stage: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the biscuits are cooked through and starting to brown.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out portions and enjoy this comforting, cheesy Sloppy Joe Bubble Up.
Notes
- For added veggies, consider stirring in finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or green chilies with the meat sauce.
- Use reduced-fat ground beef or turkey for a leaner option.
- Frozen biscuits can be used if refrigerated are not available—just thaw before cutting.
- Adjust seasoning levels to suit your taste preference, especially salt and chili powder.
- This casserole reheats well and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
