Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread

by

Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joe Mixture:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion , finely chopped
  • 1 medium bell pepper , finely chopped (optional)
  • 3 cloves garlic , minced
  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper , to taste

For the Garlic Bread Base:

  • 1 loaf French bread or Italian bread , sliced lengthwise
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter , melted
  • 3 cloves garlic , minced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion , bell pepper (if using), and garlic . Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess grease.
  3. Stir in the tomato sauce , ketchup , Worcestershire sauce , brown sugar , mustard , garlic powder , onion powder , salt , and pepper . Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Bread

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
  2. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter , minced garlic , and Parmesan cheese .
  3. Place the bread halves cut-side up on a baking sheet. Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the bread.
  4. Optional: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or parsley over the bread for added flavor.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture evenly over the garlic bread halves.
  2. Top each half with shredded cheese , spreading it evenly to cover the meat.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes , or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

  1. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
  2. Optional: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
  3. Slice into individual portions and serve warm.

Tips and Variations

  • Add Veggies: Stir in diced mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach into the sloppy joe mixture for extra nutrition.
  • Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
  • Make It Cheesy: Use a blend of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack for a gooey topping.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread and ensure all sauces are gluten-free.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days . Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Why You’ll Love This Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread

  • Comfort Food Mashup: Combines two beloved classics—sloppy joes and garlic bread—for a fun twist.
  • Flavor-Packed: The savory meat mixture pairs perfectly with the garlicky, cheesy bread.
  • Perfect for Sharing: Great for feeding a crowd at parties, game nights, or family dinners.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or spices to make it your own.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.

This Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread is a hearty, indulgent dish that brings together the best of both worlds. With its saucy, meaty filling and crispy, cheesy garlic bread base, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or bringing it to a gathering, this dish is sure to disappear quickly. Grab a slice and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience! 🍔🧄

Leave a Comment