Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes

Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes combine two classic comfort foods into one irresistible dish. Imagine the savory richness of a sloppy joe, packed with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, served between slices of crisp, buttery garlic bread. Each bite delivers a delightful crunch from the toasted garlic bread, perfectly balanced with the gooey, cheesy filling. This unique spin on the traditional sloppy joe offers layers of flavor, from the tangy tomato sauce to the fragrant garlic and parsley, making it a fun, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual

Ingredients:

For the Sloppy Joes:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar for a sharper flavor)

For the Garlic Bread:

  • 4 hoagie rolls (or hamburger buns)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling:
    • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
    • Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
    • Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
    • Remove from heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese. The cheese should melt into the beef mixture, making it gooey and delicious.
  2. Prepare the Garlic Bread:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
    • Split the hoagie rolls (or buns) in half and spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on each side of the bread.
    • Place the bread, buttered side up, on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
  3. Assemble:
    • Once the garlic bread is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
    • Spoon the cheesy sloppy joe mixture onto the garlic bread halves. Top with more mozzarella or cheddar cheese if desired.
    • Place the sandwiches back in the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, just long enough to melt the cheese on top.
  4. Serve:
    • Serve your cheesy garlic bread sloppy joes hot with a side of salad, fries, or your favorite side dish.

Enjoy this indulgent and flavorful meal!