BBQ Sloppy Joe Mac and Cheese Bake
A hearty casserole blending smoky BBQ, tender ground beef, and creamy mac and cheese. Perfect for family meals or gatherings with bold flavors and gooey texture.
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 360kcal
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 cups cooked macaroni (elbow pasta works best)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish
- Braise ground beef in a skillet, breaking into small pieces
- Add red bell pepper and onion; cook until beef is browned and veggies are softened
- Drain excess grease from the skillet
- Mix in BBQ sauce, cooked macaroni, and half the cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper
- Transfer mixture to baking dish and spread evenly
- Top with remaining cheddar cheese
- Bake 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden
- Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt
Undercook macaroni slightly (1-2 minutes less) to avoid sogginess in the dish
Add breadcrumbs for a richer texture
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days
Undercook macaroni slightly (1-2 minutes less) to avoid sogginess in the dish
Add breadcrumbs for a richer texture
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days