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Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread Recipe

4.5 from 53 reviews

This Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread recipe combines the beloved flavors of classic Sloppy Joes with the irresistible crunch and buttery garlic taste of French bread. Perfect as a hearty appetizer or a satisfying meal, this dish features a savory ground beef mixture topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, all baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread and Butter Mixture

  • 1 large loaf French bread (or 2 baguettes, halved lengthwise)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, divided)

Sloppy Joe Filling

  • 1 lb ground beef (85/15 recommended)
  • 1 small onion (finely diced)
  • 1 green bell pepper (finely diced)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce (or Sloppy Joe sauce)
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Toppings

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the French bread or baguettes lengthwise and arrange the halves on a parchment-lined baking sheet. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, and half of the chopped parsley. Spread this garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread halves.
  2. Cook the Beef Mixture: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the pan. Add the finely diced onion, green bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
  3. Add Seasonings and Simmer: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer gently for 5 to 6 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, ensuring a rich Sloppy Joe filling.
  4. Assemble the Bread: Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture generously over the prepared bread halves. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by a light dusting of Parmesan cheese if desired.
  5. Bake and Broil: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly. For an extra golden and slightly crisp top, broil the bread for an additional 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the garlic bread from the oven, sprinkle with the remaining fresh parsley, then slice into serving pieces. Serve warm for a delicious, comforting dish perfect for any occasion.

Notes

  • You can substitute Italian bread if French bread is not available.
  • For a spicier version, increase the chili powder or add a dash of hot sauce.
  • Use cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella for a sharper flavor.
  • Leftover Sloppy Joe mixture can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
  • To make this recipe lighter, use lean ground turkey instead of beef and reduce the amount of butter.

Keywords: Sloppy Joe, garlic bread, ground beef, cheesy bread, American comfort food, easy dinner, baked sandwich