Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes

Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes combine the classic, savory flavors of a sloppy joe with the delicious crunch of garlic bread. Topped with melted cheese, this dish is sure to be a family favorite.

Ingredients:

For the Bread:

• 1 loaf Italian bread
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt

For the Sloppy Joe:

• 1 pound ground beef
• ¼ cup yellow onion, chopped
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• ¾ cup ketchup
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup water

For the Topping:

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• Parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Bread: Slice the loaf of Italian bread lengthwise into two halves. Place both halves cut side up onto the lined baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and garlic salt. Spread the butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread. Set aside.
3. Cook the Sloppy Joe Filling: In a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
4. Add Seasonings: Stir in the garlic powder, yellow mustard, ketchup, kosher salt, black pepper, and water. Mix until well combined and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5 minutes.
5. Assemble: Divide the sloppy joe mixture evenly between the two halves of the prepared garlic bread. Top each half with the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Cut the bread into pieces and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Serving:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sloppy joe mixture for some heat.
• Vegetable Addition: Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for added flavor and texture.
• Different Cheeses: Try using provolone or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled but unbaked garlic bread sloppy joes. Wrap them tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a different type of bread?
A: Yes, you can use French bread, a baguette, or even sub rolls if you prefer.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sloppy joe filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the garlic bread and bake just before serving.

Q: What sides go well with Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes?
A: Serve with a simple green salad, coleslaw, or potato wedges for a complete meal.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or lentils for a vegetarian version.

These Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes are a delicious and easy way to elevate a classic dish, making it perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a fun family meal. Enjoy the flavorful combination of garlic bread and sloppy joes with every bite!