Sloppy Joe and Mac&Cheese Casserole

Sloppy Mac Casserole

Forget the buns and the messes, but don't forget the fun! This casserole has the easy and tasty feeling of mac& Cheese and Sloppy Joes. Both meals that kids love. When  I think casserole, I think easy delicious meal that my mom has prepared for the family or for thanksgiving. It's a perfect meal or side dish for a family feast. This casserole holds all the messy childhood memories in one. And you don't have to be a kid to love it. Who doesn't love new, unique foods for the family to try together? 

This casserole is great for parties and family night dinners. Sometimes families don't get to sit down and eat together. my family doesn't everybody is on the go 24/7 all week. Sometimes all you need is great dish to gather the family around the table for a nice conversation around a great meal!

3 tablespoons dark brown sugar
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauceOne 15-ounce can tomato sauce2 tablespoons EVOO1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80-to-85-percent lean)Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper3 to 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped1 red bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped1 onion, finely chopped1 cup beef broth12 ounces elbow macaroni with ridges2 cups shredded yellow Cheddar1/2 cup chopped crisp deli-style dill pickles

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Combine the brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce and tomato sauce in a small bowl. Heat the EVOO in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until well browned. Season with salt and lots of pepper. Add the garlic, bell peppers and onions and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes. Pour the tomato mixture over the beef, add the beef broth and stir until well combined. Simmer until thickened, 5 to 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until not quite tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and add to the sauce. Pour the mixture into a casserole dish and top with the cheese.

Bake until the casserole is bubbling and the top is browned. Top with the pickles and serve from the dish.

Cook's Note: The unbaked casserole can be covered and refrigerated for a make-ahead meal. Bring to room temperature and bake as directed before serving.