Jiffy Joe: Cheesy Meat & Jiffy Mix Bake Recipe
Introduction
Jiffy Joe is a comforting, cheesy casserole combining seasoned ground beef with a fluffy Jiffy cornmeal topping. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights and packs bold flavors that the whole family will love.

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
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Seasonings: 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a cast iron skillet, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a meat masher. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and seasonings (garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper) while cooking.
- Step 2: While the beef is browning, combine the two boxes of Jiffy Mix, milk, and eggs in a bowl. 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 aside.
- Step 4: Once the meat is browned, stir in both cans of Manwich. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 5: Using an ice cream scoop, evenly dollop the Jiffy mixture on top of the meat. Spread it gently with a knife if desired to smooth the surface.
- Step 6: Sprinkle the 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top, then bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 35–40 minutes.
- Step 7: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish!
Tips & Variations
- Substitute ground chuck with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add a diced green bell pepper or jalapeño with the onions for extra flavor and heat.
- Use sharp or extra sharp cheddar cheese for a bolder cheese taste.
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free cornmeal mix instead of Jiffy Mix.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or reheat the entire dish covered with foil in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Jiffy Joe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole through step 5, cover it, and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
Can I freeze Jiffy Joe?
This casserole freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.
PrintJiffy Joe: Cheesy Meat & Jiffy Mix Bake Recipe
Jiffy Joe is a hearty and comforting casserole featuring seasoned ground chuck simmered in savory Manwich sauce, topped with a cheesy Jiffy corn muffin crust. This easy-to-make dish combines bold flavors, melted cheddar cheese, and a golden baked topping to create a one-pan meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
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 Manwich Original
- 15 oz can Manwich Bold
Jiffy Corn Muffin Topping
- 2 boxes Jiffy Mix (8.5 oz boxes)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar jack cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a cast iron skillet, brown the ground chuck over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a meat masher. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is fully browned and the onions are softened.
- Prepare the Jiffy Mixture: While the meat is cooking, in a mixing bowl, combine the two boxes of Jiffy mix, milk, and eggs. Use an electric mixer to blend just until incorporated, then gently fold in 2 cups of shredded cheddar jack cheese. Set aside.
- Simmer with Manwich: Once the meat is browned, stir in both cans of Manwich (Original and Bold). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 5 minutes until the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Using an ice cream scoop, evenly scoop all of the Jiffy batter over the meat mixture in the cast iron skillet. Spread it out with a knife if necessary to create an even layer.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the reserved 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the Jiffy topping layer.
- Bake: Place the skillet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jiffy Joe!
Notes
- Using a cast iron skillet helps achieve even browning and can go directly from stovetop to oven.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more cayenne if you prefer it spicier.
- You can substitute cheddar jack cheese with your preferred cheese blend.
- This recipe serves well as a main dish and pairs nicely with a green salad or steamed vegetables.
- If you want a thicker topping, reduce the milk slightly in the Jiffy mixture.
Keywords: Jiffy Joe, Manwich casserole, cheesy beef casserole, easy baked casserole, ground beef Jiffy recipe

