Sloppy Joe Squares

Sloppy Joe Squares made with seasoned ground beef, tomato sauce, and melted cheese baked between flaky crescent roll dough. This easy Sloppy Joe recipe is perfect for family dinners, game day food, potluck meals, and quick weeknight recipes. Simple ingredients, bold flavor, and oven-baked convenience make these Sloppy Joe bars a popular comfort food option.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 small white onion, finely diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 16 oz tomato sauce
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons prepared yellow mustard
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Cajun or Creole seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 16 oz refrigerated crescent roll dough (2 packages of 8 oz each)
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Cook the filling
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper. Cook until the beef is fully browned and crumbly with no pink remaining. Drain excess fat and return the skillet to the heat.
2. Season and simmer
   Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring often, until thickened.
3. Prepare the pan
   Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Spray a 13×9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
4. Assemble the squares
   Press one sheet of crescent roll dough into the bottom of the pan, sealing seams and covering the base completely. Spread the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. Top and finish
   Place the second sheet of crescent roll dough over the cheese, gently pressing seams together and stretching to the edges. Brush the top with milk and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
6. Bake
   Bake uncovered for 13–15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Slice into squares and serve warm.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Sloppy Joe flavor in an easy baked form
• Great for family dinners, parties, or potlucks
• Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
• Crispy, golden crust with a savory, cheesy filling

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Tips

• Drain the beef well to prevent a soggy crust
• Seal crescent roll seams tightly for clean layers
• Let the squares rest for 5 minutes before slicing
• Adjust spice level by reducing or increasing red pepper flakes

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Variations and Substitutions

• Ground turkey or chicken: Swap for ground beef for a lighter version
• Cheese options: Use mozzarella, Colby Jack, or sharp cheddar
• Vegetarian option: Replace meat with lentils or plant-based crumbles
• Extra veggies: Add diced mushrooms or zucchini to the filling

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze Sloppy Joe Squares?
Yes. Bake, cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best texture, or microwave individual portions.

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Serving

• Serve with a green salad or coleslaw
• Pair with oven fries or roasted potatoes
• Add pickles or extra mustard on the side

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Suggestions

• Cut into smaller squares for appetizers
• Use leftovers as a sandwich filling
• Serve with a dipping sauce like ranch or spicy mayo