If you love sloppy joes and garlic bread, then you’re in for a treat! This Cheesy Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread combines the best of both worlds, making it an ultimate comfort food dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering with friends. The rich and savory sloppy joe mixture, piled high on crusty garlic bread and topped with melted cheese, is a flavor explosion you won’t be able to resist. Read on for this delicious recipe that will be a hit with the entire family.

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients for Cheesy Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread
2. Instructions for Cheesy Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread
3. Cooking Notes & Tips
4. Recipe Variations & Substitutions
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients for Cheesy Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread

• 1 loaf French bread, halved lengthwise
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions for Cheesy Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Sloppy Joe Mixture

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
• Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
• Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Bread

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with the garlic powder. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over both halves of the French bread.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

• Place the garlic bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture evenly over the top of the garlic bread.
• Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sloppy joe mixture.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Remove from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Step 4: Serve

• Slice the cheesy sloppy joe garlic bread into individual servings and enjoy warm!

Cooking Notes & Tips

• Bread Choice: You can use Italian bread or a baguette instead of French bread if preferred. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the sloppy joe mixture.
• Ground Meat: Feel free to substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version.
• Cheese: While mozzarella is classic, you can also use cheddar, provolone, or a combination of your favorite cheeses for extra flavor.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sloppy joe mixture for some extra heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or cooked lentils for a vegetarian twist.
• Extra Veggies: Add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or shredded carrots to the sloppy joe mixture for extra nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sloppy joe mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, assemble the garlic bread and bake as directed.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cheesy sloppy joe garlic bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

3. Can I freeze this recipe?

While you can freeze the sloppy joe mixture, it’s best not to freeze the assembled garlic bread as the texture may become soggy when reheated. Freeze the sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container for up to 2 months, then thaw and use as needed.

4. What can I serve with cheesy sloppy joe garlic bread?

This dish pairs well with a green salad, coleslaw, or even roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

This Cheesy Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread is an irresistible twist on two classic comfort foods. With its savory sloppy joe filling, buttery garlic bread base, and gooey melted cheese topping, it’s sure to be a hit at your next family dinner or get-together. Whether you’re craving a hearty weeknight meal or a delicious party snack, this recipe is easy to make and full of flavor. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations to suit your taste, and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!

Give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Happy cooking!