Introduction

Jiffy Joe is a comforting and flavorful casserole that combines seasoned ground beef with a cheesy Jiffy corn muffin topping. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something hearty and satisfying.

Jiffy Joe Casserole with Ground Beef, Manwich, and Cheddar Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1-2 lbs ground chuck
15 oz can Manwich Original
15 oz can Manwich Bold
2 boxes Jiffy Mix (8.5 oz each)
2 eggs
1 cup milk
2 cups shredded cheddar jack cheese
1 small onion, chopped
6-7 cloves garlic, chopped
¼ cup shredded cheddar (for topping)
Seasonings: 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a cast iron skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up with a meat masher as it cooks. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are softened.
Step 2: While the meat is browning, in a medium bowl combine the two boxes of Jiffy mix, milk, and eggs. Use an electric mixer to blend just until incorporated.
Step 3: Fold in 2 cups of shredded cheddar jack cheese into the Jiffy mixture and set it aside.
Step 4: Once the meat is browned, stir in both cans of Manwich. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Using an ice cream scoop, evenly spoon the Jiffy mixture on top of the meat mixture in the skillet.
Step 6: Smooth the Jiffy topping with a knife if desired. Sprinkle the ¼ cup of shredded cheddar over the top.
Step 7: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, until the topping is golden and cooked through. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, add extra cayenne pepper or use hot Manwich sauce.
You can substitute ground chuck with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Adding diced bell peppers to the beef mixture gives an extra layer of flavor and color.
Use sharp cheddar instead of cheddar jack for a more pronounced cheese taste.

Storage

Store leftover Jiffy Joe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes. This dish can also be frozen; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cornbread mix instead of Jiffy?

Yes, you can use any cornbread mix you prefer. Just be sure to follow the package instructions and adjust the milk and egg quantities accordingly if needed.

Is it okay to prepare Jiffy Joe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish up to the baking step and cover it tightly with foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking as directed.

Jiffy Joe Casserole with Ground Beef, Manwich, and Cheddar Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 54 reviews

Jiffy Joe is a hearty and comforting casserole that layers seasoned ground beef with a tangy Manwich sauce and a cheesy Jiffy cornbread topping. This dish combines savory flavors and cheesy goodness for a satisfying family meal that’s easy to prepare and bake to perfection.

Author: Ella
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Meat Mixture

1–2 lbs ground chuck
1 small onion, chopped
6–7 cloves garlic, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper, to taste
15 oz can of Manwich Original
15 oz can of Manwich Bold

Jiffy Cornbread Topping

2 boxes Jiffy Mix (8.5 oz each)
2 eggs
1 cup milk
2 cups shredded cheddar jack cheese
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

Instructions

Brown the Ground Beef: In a cast iron skillet, brown the ground chuck over medium heat. Break it up using a meat masher and cook evenly. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper while browning to infuse the meat with flavor.
Prepare the Jiffy Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the two boxes of Jiffy Mix with the milk and eggs. Using an electric mixer, blend just until the ingredients are incorporated. Gently fold in the 2 cups of shredded cheddar jack cheese and set the mixture aside.
Add Manwich Sauce to Meat: Once the meat is fully browned, add both cans of Manwich Original and Manwich Bold sauces to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Simmer the Meat Mixture: Bring the combined mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Top with Jiffy Mixture: Using an ice cream scoop, portion the Jiffy cornbread mixture evenly over the meat mixture in the cast iron skillet. Smooth out the top with a knife if desired.
Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the cornbread layer. Place the skillet in a preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden and set.
Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and enhances the flavors. Enjoy your delicious Jiffy Joe casserole!

Notes

You can adjust the heat level by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper or using only one type of Manwich sauce.
Using a cast iron skillet helps achieve even browning and is oven-safe for baking.
The recipe can serve 6-8 people depending on portion size.
Leftovers refrigerate well and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
For a gluten-free option, substitute Jiffy Mix with a gluten-free cornbread mix.

Keywords: Jiffy Joe, casserole, ground beef, Manwich, cornbread topping, cheesy bake