Description
A delightful twist on the classic Sloppy Joe, featuring a savory ground beef filling simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce, served on warm, cheesy garlic bread. This easy-to-make recipe combines the comfort of Sloppy Joes with the irresistible taste of homemade cheesy garlic bread, perfect for a satisfying family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Cheesy Garlic Bread:
- 1 loaf French bread or sub rolls, halved lengthwise
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the finely diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add the Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer the Filling: Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Prepare the Cheesy Garlic Bread: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, and parsley until well mixed.
- Butter the Bread: Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the French bread or sub rolls.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously on top of the buttered bread.
- Bake the Bread: Place the prepared bread on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread has turned golden brown and crispy at the edges.
- Assemble the Sloppy Joes: Spoon the hot sloppy joe filling onto the bottom halves of the cheesy garlic bread.
- Finish and Serve: Top with the other halves of the bread, pressing down slightly to secure. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the delicious cheesy garlic bread sloppy joes.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the sloppy joe filling.
- If preferred, substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- You can prepare the sloppy joe filling in advance and reheat it when ready to assemble the sandwiches.
- Use fresh parsley for a brighter, fresher taste instead of dried parsley if available.
- Leftover sloppy joe filling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with a side salad or fries for a complete meal.