Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the onion until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
4. Stir in the Manwich sauce and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In the prepared baking dish, layer half the pasta, half the beef mixture, and half the cheese. Repeat the layers.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Variations

• Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the beef for extra flavor.
• Swap egg noodles for rotini, penne, or shells.
• Mix in a handful of corn or black beans for added heartiness.
• Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
• Top with crushed tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex twist.

Tips

• Drain the beef well to avoid excess grease in the casserole.
• For a creamier texture, stir a half cup of sour cream into the pasta before layering.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.
• Let the casserole rest before slicing to help the layers set.
• Finish with crispy fried onions or fresh parsley for added crunch and color.